<!docThe Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod is a light, responsive budget stick that surprised me with sensitivity, comfort and versatility for bass and catfish overall.
Last checked: December 12, 2025 · Source: manufacturer & major retailers
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My Quick Verdict
After several trips chasing bass and eater-size catfish, the Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod has earned a permanent spot in my rod rack. The 5’6” medium power, fast action blank feels genuinely light in the hand, with a hybrid construction that relays subtle ticks and bottom changes far better than I expected at this price. It’s not a tournament-grade stick and the shorter length does limit casting distance, but as a budget-friendly workhorse for jigging, light Texas rigs or a dedicated drop-shot casting setup, it punches well above its weight—provided you stay within its medium-power sweet spot and give it a quick once-over when it arrives.
What I Liked
- Lightweight 5’6” medium/fast blank that’s easy to fish all day without fatigue.
- Hybrid construction and blank-through-handle design deliver impressive bite sensitivity for the money.
- Comfortable full cork handle and reel seat that stay grippy even with wet hands.
- Six stainless-steel guides give smooth, tangle-free casting in my testing.
- Excellent value as a first casting rod, spare deck rod or dedicated jig/drop-shot setup.
What Annoyed Me
- Shorter 5’6″ length can’t match the casting distance of 6’6″–7′ bass rods.
- Medium power is under-gunned for heavy cover, big swimbaits or very large catfish.
- Entry-level finish and components—totally fine for the price but not “premium.”
- Some buyers report shipping damage when the rod isn’t packaged well, so it’s worth inspecting on delivery.
- With only six guides, line control isn’t as refined as on higher-end, guide-rich blanks.
Key Specs
| Model / ASIN | 5’6″ Medium / Fast, model CWD2-561MC · ASIN B08DDCPPHP |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & Weight | Length 5’6″ one-piece casting rod; listed weights cluster around 0.33 lb (roughly 5.3 oz), remaining very manageable in hand. |
| Materials / Build | Hybrid graphite/fiberglass blank with blank-through-handle construction, SS304 stainless-steel guides, full cork handle and a secure Type-D-style reel seat. |
| What’s in the Box | Rod only—no case, reel, line or lure included. |
| Variations | Cherrywood HD series also comes in 6’6″ and 7′ casting models (medium and medium-heavy) plus matching spinning rods in multiple lengths. |
| Warranty | Not listed per product page; Berkley covers rods under a general warranty policy that varies by region. |
| Rating | ≈4.4/5 average (57+ ratings across major retailers) |
| Price | Roughly $21.82–$34.99 depending on retailer and size |
Prices and availability change often—check the Amazon page for the latest.
My Hands-On Experience
I picked up the Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod because I wanted a truly budget-friendly casting setup that didn’t feel like a broomstick. I was especially curious whether this 5’6″ medium power, fast action model could handle finesse bass techniques and light catfish duty without feeling dull or underpowered.
Out of the tube, the rod immediately felt lighter than I’d expected for the price. The red blank and cork grip combo has that classic Cherrywood look, and while the cosmetics aren’t high-end, there were no ugly glue smears or crooked guides on my sample. I paired it with a compact 150-size baitcaster spooled with 12 lb mono, and the combo balanced nicely just ahead of the reel seat, which made one-handed casting feel natural.
On the water, I started with 1/4 oz jigs, small Texas-rigged creature baits and a couple of 3/8 oz spinnerbaits. Within a few casts I could feel the hybrid blank and blank-through-handle build doing their thing—bottom transitions, light ticks and panfish pecks all came through clearly. The rod loads easily on the back cast yet has enough backbone to drive a hook into a decent largemouth or channel cat without feeling mushy.
It’s not all perfect, of course. The 5’6″ length is fantastic around overhanging trees, docks and in a cramped kayak, but I did notice shorter casts compared to my 6’6″ and 7′ sticks, especially when bombing lighter baits. When I pushed up toward the top of its 1/4–3/4 oz lure rating with heavier lures and 15–17 lb line, the blank started to feel a bit out of its comfort zone. I also keep an eye on shipping—reports of rods arriving damaged are believable for any budget stick, so I always inspect the blank and guides as soon as I unbox.
To get the best results with this rod, I’ve found a sweet spot around 10–14 lb mono or fluoro and 1/4–1/2 oz baits. Think jigs, Texas rigs, shaky heads, weightless soft plastics and modest spinnerbaits. Check the guide feet and tip-top for damage before your first trip, seat the reel firmly in the cork handle, and let the fast action do the work on your hooksets—you don’t need to swing for the fences with this blank.
Performance & Features
Hybrid Medium/Fast Blank That Stays Light in Hand
The heart of the Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod is its hybrid graphite/fiberglass blank. In practice, that mix gives you a forgiving backbone with enough crispness in the tip to work finesse presentations. The medium power, fast action profile feels perfect for 8–17 lb line and lures in the 1/4–3/4 oz window, which lines up nicely with typical bass and light catfish fishing. Despite being a budget rod, it doesn’t feel clubby or tiring over a full day.
Sensitivity That Belies the Price Tag
Between the hybrid blank and the blank-through-handle construction, the Cherrywood HD transmits more feedback than I expected from this price bracket. Bottom contact with jigs and Texas rigs is clear, and I can distinguish between grass, rock and wood without staring at the line constantly. Light bites on drop-shotted plastics still come through, especially when you stay in that 10–12 lb line range where the blank really shines.
Guides, Handle & Ergonomics
Berkley uses SS304 stainless-steel guides on this series. You only get six on the 5’6″ model, but they’ve been smooth and trouble-free in my use with mono and fluoro. The full cork handle is a big win at this price—cork just feels right in the hand and stays comfortable even when you’re palming a baitcaster all afternoon. The Type-D-style reel seat locks the reel down securely without any awkward hotspots digging into my palm.
Durability & Long-Term Value
Online feedback consistently praises the Cherrywood HD line for holding up well to regular use, even when fished hard for bass and mid-size catfish. It’s obviously not indestructible, but the blank and guides have a solid-track record for the money. Where I do stay cautious is shipping: like many rods in this price tier, poor packaging can be an issue, so I always inspect for cracks, flat spots in the cork and bent guides before fishing. Treat it reasonably well and it’s a fantastic value rod that you won’t panic about if it gets bumped in a rod locker or loaned to a friend.
Who It’s For
- Budget-conscious bass anglers who still want real bite sensitivity and decent feedback from their casting rod.
- Kayak and bank anglers who fish tight spaces where a shorter 5’6″ rod is easier to swing than a long 7′ stick.
- Anyone needing an affordable backup or loaner casting rod that doesn’t feel like a total compromise on the water.
Who Should Skip It
- Anglers throwing big swimbaits, heavy Carolina rigs or punching heavy mats where a stout, longer heavy-power rod is safer.
- Those who prioritize maximum casting distance and line control from 7’+ rods with more guides.
- Gear snobs expecting ultra-refined cosmetics, premium guides and super-light blanks found on $150+ rods.
Comparison Snapshot
| Model | Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod | Ugly Stik Elite Casting Rod 6’6″ Medium | Berkley Lightning Rod Casting 6’6″ Medium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headline Benefit | Very affordable, surprisingly sensitive and easy to fish all day. | Legendary toughness with a slightly more refined blank and extra-fast action. | Lighter, crisper 24-ton graphite feel with more guides and longer reach. |
| Key Spec | 5’6″ medium power, fast action, 8–17 lb line, 1/4–3/4 oz lures, 6 guides. | 6’6″ medium power, extra-fast action, 8–17 lb line, 1/4–5/8 oz lures, ~8 guides. | 6’6″ medium power, fast action, 8–14 lb line, 1/4–5/8 oz lures, 9 guides. |
| Notable Drawback | Short length and basic components; not ideal for heavy cover or big baits. | Heavier overall and noticeably more expensive than the Cherrywood HD. | Costs more and feels a bit less forgiving for complete beginners. |
| Typical Price | ≈$22–$35 depending on length and retailer. | Often around $75–$85. | Usually in the $50–$65 range. |
| Warranty | Covered under Berkley’s standard rod warranty policy (region-dependent). | Backed by a limited warranty from Shakespeare/ Ugly Stik. | Supported by Berkley’s Lightning Rod warranty program. |
| My Pick For | Best ultra-budget choice when you want sensitivity without spending much. | Best for anglers who abuse gear and value toughness over low price. | Best step-up option when you want a crisper blank and longer casting distance. |
FAQs
Is the Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod good for beginners?
Yes. In fact, that’s one of the reasons I like it so much. The medium power, fast action blank is forgiving enough that minor mistakes won’t instantly cost you fish, yet sensitive enough to teach you what good bite feedback feels like. Pair it with 10–14 lb mono or fluoro and 1/4–1/2 oz lures and you’ll have a very friendly first casting setup.
What line and lure weights work best on this rod?
The official rating is 8–17 lb line and 1/4–3/4 oz lures. In my hands, the sweet spot is 10–14 lb mono or fluoro with baits between 1/4 and 1/2 oz—think jigs, Texas rigs, weightless plastics, smaller spinnerbaits and light topwaters. You can fish heavier, but once you get near 3/4 oz the blank starts to feel pushed.
Can I use the Cherrywood HD Casting Rod for catfish?
Yes, within reason. This 5’6″ medium model is great for eater-size channel cats and smaller blues in open water. The blank has enough backbone to handle stronger runs when you couple it with appropriate line. For big trophy fish in heavy current or snaggy cover, I’d step up to a longer, heavier-power rod.
Is the 5’6″ length too short for bank fishing?
It depends on where you fish. From crowded banks, docks or brushy shorelines, 5’6″ is actually a joy because it keeps you from constantly whacking branches. If you frequently need to bomb long casts over open water, a 6’6″ or 7′ rod will give you better distance—but I haven’t felt handicapped in normal pond and small-lake situations.
Can I use this casting rod in saltwater?
The Cherrywood HD is primarily positioned as a freshwater rod, but the stainless-steel guides and composite blank can tolerate occasional inshore use for smaller species if you rinse everything thoroughly afterward. If you’re regularly fishing saltwater, I’d look for a rod explicitly rated as salt-ready with corrosion-focused hardware.
What kind of reel pairs best with the Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod?
I’ve had good luck with compact 100–150 size baitcasters. A mid-range reel with a smooth drag and reasonable braking lets the rod shine, especially for lighter lures. You don’t need a super-expensive reel here; something mid-budget, spooled with 10–14 lb line, balances nicely and keeps the whole combo feeling light.
Does the Cherrywood HD Casting Rod come with a case or accessories?
No. You’re getting the bare rod only—no case, socks, line or lures. I recommend at least a basic rod sleeve if you plan to transport it in a crowded car or boat where guides and tips can get bumped.
How does this casting model compare to the Cherrywood HD spinning rods?
The Cherrywood HD spinning rods share the same hybrid construction, cork handles and value-oriented design, but they naturally favor lighter line and finesse presentations. If you mostly throw lightweight plastics, small crankbaits or panfish lures, the spinning versions make more sense. For jigs, Texas rigs and heavier bass baits, this casting model is the better tool.
Conclusion
Overall, the Berkley Cherrywood HD Casting Rod delivers far more than its price suggests. It’s light, surprisingly sensitive, comfortable to fish and versatile enough to cover a big chunk of typical bass and light catfish techniques. The trade-offs are clear—shorter length, medium power and basic components—but if you’re honest about what you need it to do, this rod can absolutely anchor a budget-friendly setup or serve as a reliable backup that still feels good in the hand.
- Buy if: You want an affordable, sensitive casting rod for bass and mid-size catfish in freshwater and you’re mostly fishing 1/4–1/2 oz lures on 10–14 lb line.
- Skip if: You regularly fish heavy cover with big baits or expect premium-grade finishes and components from your rods.
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