An improved rod guide which reduces flow resistance by flow-through design and by reducing fluid turbulence. Incremental flow velocity changes result from progressive changes in fluid path direction and cross-sectional area. Large bearing surfaces and a predetermined compliance to bending along the longitudinal axis provide for low bearing loads and long service life. Preferred embodiments may comprise features to absorb lateral shock loads and to streamline fluid flow, further reducing turbulence and flow resistance. The guides are adapted for efficient hot-oiling and preferred embodiments incorporate automatic rotation features for extended service life in relatively straight well bores. Embodiments of the improved rod guide for use in strongly curved well bores tend to be self-aligning in a preferred position to absorb the shock of changes in pump rod direction of movement.