Using a spod and marker carp rod is a way to enhance your fishing and I would urge any carp angler to invest in both a spod and marker carp fishing rod.
In this article, we are going to first explain what exactly spod and marker fishing rods are used for and provide you with the recommendation for the best spod and marker carp fishing rods.
Let’s get started.
What is a spod fishing rod?
A spod carp fishing rod is solely used to cast out bait to an area you are fishing. This bait is often a combination of various types of carp fishing bait mixed together, from boilies and sweetcorn to tuna and particles. This mixture of carp bait is often called a spod mix.
Check out our article - The Best Carp Spod Mix for ideas.
The spod mix is cast out using a spod bomb, which is a torpedo-like shape that can hold a good amount of bait, this will vary based on the size. When the spod bomb hits the waters, it will open up allowing all the carp bait to be distributed into the lake.
A spod carp fishing rod is much stiffer than a standard rod which assists the anglers when casting. This stiffness is indicated by the test curve. The higher the test curve the more powerful the rod and in theory the easier it will be to cast to a further distance. To determine which test curve is best for you is really down to the distance you need to cast.
What is a marker fishing rod?
A marker rod is used for a couple of reasons.
The first is to determine what type of lake bed you are fishing over.
So how is this achieved?
You will attach, to the end of your fishing, line a heavy lead weight and a very buoyant float. You can purchase marker kits that contain all the end tackle you need. You will cast this out and drag the weight over the lake bed and feel the response up the fishing line. This will tell you if the lake bed contains weed, silt, gravel etc.
Based on this, you can adjust your end tackle to suit that particular environment. For example, you should use a weedy green coloured carp rig to blend in and perhaps fish a chod rig over a weedy lake.
The floating part of a marker rod will determine the depth you are fishing at and also indicate exactly where you are fishing indicated by the brightly coloured nose.
After you cast out, the float will be at the bottom of the lake. If you set up the marker rod correctly, you will be able to let your fishing line out and track the distance until you see the float appear on the surface.
Once you have this visible, you can then use this as a target for your spod fishing rod when casting your bait out. This will ensure you keep your carp bait in the same area and can fish over a tightly baited spot, very critical.
Important point - using a marker and spod fishing rod will cause a disturbance in the water which will potentially scare away any carp. I tend to use a marker and spod rod when I am fishing longer sessions.
Features of a spod and marker fishing rod
Casting power - spod and marker fishing rods will have a higher test curve meaning they have more power allowing the angler to cast great distances.
Cost - an important factor to consider when purchasing any carp equipment. The recommendations feature some well-priced rods that will not break the bank.
Other accessories - you will also need to consider spod and marker fishing reels, fishing line (or in most cases braid) and end tackle. This is good to keep in the back of your mind as these components do increase the costs.
Some of the recommendations come as part of a kit that contains a spod or marker fishing rod, reel and braid. This is often much more effective cost-wise.
Daiwa Black Widow EXT 10ft spod rod
The shorter EXT is worth a look if transport space matters. This is a dedicated 4.5lb spod rod, not a normal carp rod relabelled for baiting.
Before you buy: Check that the 10ft length suits your casting. Stay within the maker’s casting guidance for the fully loaded baiting device, not just the empty rocket.
View Daiwa Black Widow EXT 10ft spod rod on Amazon (paid link)
Fox Horizon X3 12ft spod and marker rod
The 12ft Horizon X3 gives you a dedicated spod/marker option with a 5.5lb test curve. Compare its length and balance with the Daiwa rather than assuming the higher test curve will automatically suit you better.
Before you buy: This is CRD294. Test curve is not the maximum safe casting weight. Use the correct line and leader arrangement, finger protection and a clear casting area.
View Fox Horizon X3 12ft spod and marker rod on Amazon (paid link)
Sonik Hero X spod reel
Need a reel as well? The Hero X is a separate spod reel supplied with 30lb high-vis braid. It can save one shopping job, but it is not a rod-and-reel combo.
Before you buy: Check the braid, leader requirements and line condition before casting. Do not assume supplied braid removes the need for a suitable shockleader.
View Sonik Hero X spod reel on Amazon (paid link)
Spomb Midi X bait rocket
The Midi X is a bait-delivery option for pellets, boilies and suitable particles. Start with a manageable load and a comfortable distance; repeatedly hitting the same spot is more useful than one huge cast.
Before you buy: This is the Black Midi X. Match the fully loaded weight to your rod and line setup, check venue rules and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
View Spomb Midi X bait rocket on Amazon (paid link)
Fox Exocet MK2 marker braid
For marker work, low-stretch braid helps you feel what is happening at the lead. This listing is specifically marker braid, rather than a recommendation to use it unchanged for heavy spodding.
Before you buy: Check the 0.18mm, 9.07kg, 300m option and any required leader. Keep marker and spod line requirements separate.
View Fox Exocet MK2 marker braid on Amazon (paid link)
Which one should you choose?
Start with the water you fish and the kit you already own. You do not need the most expensive option, but you do need the right size and specification. Check the selected model, what is included and the delivery total before ordering. If you are unsure, a local tackle shop can help you compare the options.
