Abstract: A laser illuminated fishing rod is provided for making it easier to fish at night. This laser fishing rod includes a hollow pole for supporting a fishing line and having a handle end and a tip end. A hollow handle structure adapted for manual gripping by a fisherman is affixed to the handle end of the pole. A laser beam producing unit is located within the handle structure and is aligned to transmit a laser beam into the hollow interior of the pole in the direction of the tip end of the pole. This laser beam causes the pole to glow in a brilliant and highly noticeable manner. The pole illumination is very sensitive to movement or flexing of the pole. Even a slight flexing of the pole causes a shimmering or rippling effect in the illumination. This provides a readily visible indication at night that a fish is attempting to take the bait. A unique adjustment mechanism for balancing the weight of the fishing rod is also provided.