[Bonito Casting] Tackle Selection 23 Recommended Rods

Basic Tackle Selection

Katsuo casting involves steering the boat toward schools of fish or bird flocks, sometimes chasing the school at high speed, and casting plugs or small jigs at the perfect moment to catch the fish. This fishing style has a strong hunting element and captivates many anglers. Additionally, the taste of fresh katsuo is exceptional, making it a popular fishing target for both the thrill of the catch and the delicious flavor.
However, bonito can scatter quickly when the boat approaches. Therefore, it is necessary to quickly deploy the lure the moment you get close to the school, requiring tackle with sufficient casting distance. Additionally, a well-balanced rod that can handle the fight without losing the fish is essential.

It is necessary to accurately place the lure into the bait ball or bird flock. Moreover, this must be done quickly as soon as the boat slows down. When selecting a rod, it is important to choose a model with excellent casting performance, as well as one that allows for precise lure manipulation and has the flexibility to reel in the fish without losing it once hooked.

Bonito have fragile mouths. To avoid cutting their mouths while reeling them in, it is best to avoid rods that are too stiff and instead choose a model with a certain degree of flexibility.

Rod selection

While it is possible to catch bonito using casting rods designed for bluefish like yellowtail amberjack, it is better to use a light-class model suited for bonito or a model specifically developed for bonito fishing. The reason is that these rods possess the flexibility and power to handle the powerful runs of bonito. Selecting a rod with the appropriate power for bonito reduces the likelihood of the fish escaping due to a torn mouth.
The standard rod lengths are 7ft and 8ft. On boats that recommend underhand casting or smaller vessels, models around 7ft to 7.5ft are easier to handle to prevent the rod tip from hitting the water surface. On the other hand, on boats where overhead casting is possible, rods in the 7.5ft to 8ft range are recommended for maximum casting distance.

The rod length should be chosen based on the boat’s casting rules. On boats that recommend underhand casting or smaller boats, longer rods may hit the water surface, making it difficult to achieve the ideal cast and maneuverability.

Line and Leader

The basic line is PE2, with PE3 used for targeting larger bonito. If the fishing boat specifies a line thickness, follow those instructions.
Prepare leaders in 40lb, 50lb, and 60lb strengths. Adjust the leader length so that the connection point between the leader and PE does not enter the reel spool when the lure is suspended from the rod tip. This prevents line tangles during casting.
However, if the leader is too short, the line may rub against the boat bottom during sharp runs near the boat, risking line breakage, so caution is needed.

Reel selection

Select a reel that can hold 300m of PE 2-3. For Daiwa or Shimano, the 4000-6000 series is a good reference.
In terms of type, choose a high-gear or extra-high-gear model. These models have faster winding speeds, enabling quick line retrieval after casting and dynamic lure action. Bonito often responds well to fast action.

Carefully consider reel size. A reel that is too large may be difficult to handle due to its weight when performing precise actions. On the other hand, smaller models may lack sufficient power.

Lure Selection and Tactics

For plugs, prepare sinking pencils and small jigs. Cast these ahead of the school’s direction of movement, land them while keeping the line taut, and immediately start the action.
For sinking pencils, effective techniques include subtle twitches, steady reeling, and skipping with rapid movements that create splashes on the water surface. The standard size ranges from approximately 9 cm to 14 cm.

If the plug cannot reach the target, using a jig is recommended. When using jigs, be sure to thumb the line to ensure a quiet landing. This is because the loud landing sound of jigs can scare the fish away. Twitching and skipping on the surface are effective movements for jigs, and if the fish are swimming deep, twitching and lifting and falling after sinking are also good techniques. In either case, a slightly faster reeling speed is the basic rule. Models weighing around 50 g that can swim by shaking their bodies when reeled in are recommended.

Bonito often suddenly migrate to their home fields, but it is not uncommon for them to disappear quickly. It may be too late to prepare after obtaining information about their migration, so preparing your tackle and gathering information in advance will determine your success or failure. Let’s prepare well now so that we can enjoy bonito casting in the best possible way, which is “fun to fish and delicious to eat.”

Recommended rods for bonito casting (2025 Edition)

Tenryu Spike/672S-LML, 722S-ML

The Spike series has undergone repeated model changes over the years alongside advancements in rod technology. It balances flexibility and rebound force, with the butt section utilizing Tenryu’s proprietary carbon nanotube material, C·N·T. The 672S-LML is designed for maneuverability and operability, compatible with plugs weighing 20–60g. The 722S-ML is compatible with lures weighing 30–80g and is equipped with the power to handle large bonito with confidence.

672S-LML / Lure MAX 60g, Line MAX 2.5 lb, Body Price 42,500 yen
722S-ML / Lure MAX 80g, Line MAX 3, Body Price 45,000 yen

Product Information
https://fishing.tenryu-magna.com/offshore/spike.html

Smith Offshore Stick Baudeville/S78ML, S86M

The 2025 Smith new casting rod series pursues stable casting distance and ease of casting, as well as lure maneuverability and performance that rebounds and recovers after bending. The S78ML handles everything from casting for bonito and mackerel to blade jigs, while the S86M model, which pursues long-distance casting performance and ease of skipping with an overhead swing, is ideal for bonito fishing. Features a center-cut two-piece design for easy portability.

OBD-S78ML / Lures 15–60g, line up to 2.5, body price 48,000 yen

OBD-S86M / Lures 20–60g, line up to 3, body price 50,000 yen

Product Information
https://www.smith.jp/product/salt/bowdevil/bowdevil.html

Ripple Fisher Aquila / ST81-2, ST 78-3

This series combines the basic performance required for casting games—casting, lure operation, ease of hooking fish, and fighting—at a high level. It offers a sharp feel, but once a fish is hooked, the fulcrum shifts to the hand side. This enables stable fighting. The ST81-2 was developed for selective games such as bonito nibbling. The ST 78-3 features a length setting that balances maneuverability and casting distance, with a tip that retains moderate stiffness, making it an excellent model for manipulating small-eyed plugs.

ST81-2/Comfortable lure weight 17-45g, line MAX 2, body price 63,000 yen

ST 78-3/Comfortable lure weight 30-50g, line MAX 3, body price 61,000 yen

Product Information
https://ripplefisher.com/product/off-shore-game/aquila-new

Yamaga Blanks Blue Snipe / 83/2 FLX-MODE, 74/3 RGD-MODE

In 2025, in line with the evolution of recent topwater games, the “FLX” Flex, ‘TRQ’ Torqueful, and “RGD” Rigid categories were fully renewed with enhanced performance for the first time in 10 years. The 83/2 Flex model features a flexible tip and belly for high maneuverability, specializing in naturally moving lures with low drag resistance. It is ideal for targeting small baitfish. The 74/3 Rigid model is designed for lures with high drag resistance, such as poppers, minnows, and jigs, and is engineered for easy range control.

83/2 FLX-MODE / Lures 14–50g, Line MAX 2, Body Price 46,000 yen

74/3 RGD-MODE / Lures 30–60g, Line 2–3, Body Price 43,000 yen

Product Information
https://yamaga-blanks.com/product/ohushorecasting/new-bsb/

Zesta Catapult Light Spec/S72ML

Developed with the concept of “enjoying offshore nearshore casting games with a light and agile feel,” this is the light spec model of Zesta’s Catapult casting rod series. Utilizing Zesta’s accumulated blank technology, this model enables exceptional long-distance casting with minimal effort. The slim tubular blank allows for precise control of lures and jigs.

S72ML / Lure/Plug MAX 70g, Jig MAX 80g, Line MAX 2-pound test, Body price TBD

Product Information
https://xesta.jp/catapult_light-spec/

Tailwalk Sprint Stick SSD / 70ML, 70M, 80M

Tailwalk’s standard offshore casting rod. The blank is designed for smooth bending and durability, making it resistant to damage. It is also a popular model due to its affordable price range. The 70ML model is ideal for bonito and mackerel. Its flexible bend effectively handles bonito, which are known for their sharp bites. The 70M model features a power setting suitable for larger bonito, with a length that is easy to handle on a boat and a regular taper for easy casting. The 80M model boasts high casting performance, making it ideal for targeting wary bonito with plugs.

70ML / Lure MAX 55g, Drag MAX 4.5kg, Body Price 29,000 yen

70M / Lure MAX 60g, Drag MAX 5kg, Body Price 30,000 yen

80M / Lure MAX 70g, Drag MAX 5kg, Body Price 31,000 yen

Product Information
https://www.tailwalk.jp/product/sprint-stick-ssd/

Shimano Ocea Plagger Flex Drive/76ML

Based on the concept of “bend to catch,” this series uses low-elasticity carbon fiber that offers excellent flexibility and lightness in the blank, and a sturdy butt that unleashes its power when bent. The bending blank makes it easier to time your casts and maintain stability, while also minimizing action errors to create a natural plug action. The series features six items, but the lightest 76ML is ideal for targeting large bonito. It boasts the power to effortlessly control the bonito’s runs.

76ML / Lure MAX 80g, Line MAX 4-pound test, Body Price 56,200 yen

Product Information
https://fish.shimano.com/ja-JP/product/rod/offshoresalt/casting/a075f00003e2elbqai.html

Shimano Ocea Plagger Light Concept/S76L, S83L, S76ML, S83ML

This model was created to enjoy technical and exciting casting games. It features a high balance that prioritizes strength, casting distance, and responsiveness while thoroughly lightweighting the design of the blank and surrounding parts. Equipped with Shimano’s signature Full Holding Seat and X Guides. Captain Seiichiro Tashiro of Sunrise, who oversaw the development, recommends this model for use with bonito. The lineup includes two lengths: the 76, which excels in maneuverability, and the 83, which boasts exceptional casting distance. Power options include L and ML, allowing users to match the rod to the lure and fish size they are targeting.

S76L / Lure MAX 60g, Line MAX 3, Body Price 56,000 yen

S83L / Lure MAX 60g, Line MAX 3, Body Price 58,000 yen

S76ML / Lure MAX 80g, Line MAX 4, Body Price 57,000 yen

S83ML / Lure MAX 80g, Line MAX 4, Body Price 59,000 yen

Product Information
https://fish.shimano.com/ja-JP/product/rod/offshoresalt/casting/a075f000048khnkqaq.html

Shimano Grappler TYPE C

This model was released as the standard for offshore casting rods worldwide. It features Shimano’s proprietary Spiral X and High Power X technologies, designed with a medium-rebound action that represents the core of Shimano casting rods. It offers excellent overall balance in casting, lure manipulation, and fighting performance. The series features 10 items ranging from light to big game, but the best options for bonito fishing are the S70L, which is easy to handle, and the S80L, which allows for long-distance casting.

S70L / Lure MAX 60g, Line MAX 3, Body Price 34,000 yen

S80L / Lure MAX 60g, Line MAX 3, Body Price 35,000 yen

Product Information
https://fish.shimano.com/ja-JP/product/rod/offshoresalt/casting/a075f000041qgxpqas.html

Daiwa Saltiga C /71-2, 84-2.5

This model combines the essential performance required for offshore casting rods—such as stable casting distance, lure maneuverability, fish control during the fight, and durability—with Daiwa’s proprietary technology and the highest level of craftsmanship. The HVF Nano Plus material, which offers high strength and excellent resilience, combined with the X45 Full Shield technology that wraps the X45 material around the outer layer from the tip, significantly enhances torsional rigidity. The 71-2 model is ideal for fast retrieves with heavy sinking minnows, twitching with poppers or jerkbaits, and skipping with sinking pencils, and its shorter length makes it easy to handle even in the narrow confines of a charter boat. The 84-2.5 is optimal for overhead casting to target distant schools of fish or bird flocks.

*The photo shows the 83-6 model.
71-2 / Lure max. 50g, line max. 2, body price 60,000 yen
84-2.5 / Lure max. 55g, line max. 2.5, body price 61,500 yen

Product Information
https://www.daiwa.com/jp/product/ueo6kjs

Daiwa Outrage C /76-2, 79-3

A high-standard casting rod that inherits the design philosophy of Saltiga, such as HVF Nano Plus and X45. It comfortably handles casting distance and maneuverability, while reducing the physical burden on the angler during the fight and maintaining optimal balance with residual lifting power. The grip joint adopts a V-joint design to ensure flexibility and strength. The 76-2 is ideal for plugs in the 30g class and small jigs in the 45g class. The 7.6ft length offers a balanced combination of casting distance and maneuverability, making it easy to use on boats with low decks or charter boats. The 79-3 is a model that handles casting of plugs in the 40g class and jigs in the 60g class with ease when casting overhead.

76-2 / Lure MAX 50g, Line MAX 2, Body Price 43,300 yen
79-3 / Lure MAX 60g, Line MAX 3, Body Price 44,300 yen

Product Information
https://www.daiwa.com/jp/product/yhtibp1

Daiwa Saltiga LC /76-2

A light casting model designed to enhance the comfort of bluefish game fishing in harbors and nearshore areas. The casting performance of minnows, sinking pencils, and small jigs has been significantly improved, and the SVF Nano Plus blank, first adopted in the Saltiga series, provides a crisp, responsive feel and a smooth casting experience reminiscent of a sea bass rod. The high-elasticity blank also significantly improves sensitivity. The lineup includes three types suitable for fishing for mackerel, bonito, and medium-sized bluefish, but the 76-2, specialized for plugging, is particularly recommended.

84-2.5 / Lure MAX 50g, Line MAX 2, Body Price 56,500 yen

Product Information
https://www.daiwa.com/jp/product/c4lpc51

Mangrove Studio Black Hercules Torzite/BKH722S-M TZ

A model developed as the ultimate shooting rod specialized for sight fishing. In bonito fishing, quick and accurate casting is essential to respond to jumps and schools of fish, and to accommodate such fishing, a unique short grip has been adopted. It supports casting from various forms such as underhand, backhand, and overhead. Additionally, the tip, which controls lure maneuverability and accurate casting, features a flexible yet robust butt that maintains smooth flexibility even under maximum load, enabling precise fish control.

BKH722S-M TZ / Lure 10–50g, Line 1.5–2, Body Price 68,500 yen

Product Information
https://www.mangrove-studio.com/mangrove_s/products/ocean/ocr-bkh_tz.html

Summary: Anglers Time Editorial Department