Striper
Budget composite casting rods for stripers, bluefish, pike, and large inshore or freshwater species
- Models
- 2
- Length
- 7.0'–7.5'
- Price
- $64.95
- Type
- Casting
The Ugly Stik Striper is a saltwater and large-gamefish casting series built for striped bass, bluefish, pike, and muskie fishing where anglers need a rod tougher than a standard bass stick but without the cost of a specialty rod. It serves recreational and semi-serious inshore anglers, live-bait fishers, and freshwater big-fish hunters who prefer a durable, low-cost tool over a refined sensitivity-focused blank. Both rods use Ugly Stik's Ugly Tech composite construction, a blend of graphite and fiberglass that favors durability and forgiveness over outright sensitivity.
The Clear Tip design reinforces the tip section with transparent solid fiberglass for additional strength in a high-stress area. Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless steel guides eliminate insert pop-outs common in saltwater environments. Extended handles compared to standard bass rods aid leverage during longer fights and accommodate a wider range of hand positions. The series spans two lengths: a 7' MH (model 1366958/USCASTP701MH) with moderate-fast action and a 12-25lb line rating suited to live-bait and heavier plugging, and a 7'6" ML (model 1366960/USCASTP761ML) rated 6-20lb with a lighter lure range for more finesse-oriented striper work.
Both are 1-piece casting rods. Price is in the $30-$60 range, reflecting the budget-tier value positioning.
Deeper Dive
A closer look at notable models.
The 7' MH with moderate-fast action and 12-25lb line rating is the heavier option, suited to live-bait presentations on stripers and bluefish, planer fishing, or throwing larger plugs. Its shorter length and stiffer power make it the go-to in the pair when boat control and fighting leverage matter more than casting distance.
The 7'6" ML version, rated 6-20lb with a 1/4-3/4oz lure range and moderate-fast action, handles lighter plugs, soft plastics, and finesse live-bait presentations. The extra length helps with casting distance from a fixed bank or pier position, and the softer power benefits anglers made for smaller stripers or using lighter leaders.