The right fishing rod is important to getting the most out of your fishing trip. Here are a few tips on how to find a fishing rod that works best for you.
Types of fishing rods
Fishing rods are made for different styles of fishing and sizes of fish.
Spinning rods: These rods are small and light, with the reel on the side or bottom. If you’re fishing for smaller fish or trout fishing, a spinning rod can add some finesse to your technique.
Casting rods: Since they’re heavier and stronger than spinning rods, casting rods can handle heavier lines and bigger fish. With the reel on the top and a special trigger to control your cast, these rods, are best used in larger bodies of water.
Fly fishing rods: Fly rods are specifically designed for fly fishing so they emphasize precision over power. Since these rods are very flexible and use the weight of the line to deliver the cast instead of the bait, they’re better used in streams and small bodies of water.
Fishing rod features
Action: The action is your fishing rod’s flexibility, ranging from very fast to slow. Very fast action rods bend only at the tip for faster power, ideal for shorter casting and smaller fish. A moderate or slow action is more flexible so you can cast further and reel in bigger fish.
Material: Most fishing rods are made from graphite or fibreglass. Newcomers prefer fibreglass since it’s heavier and more affordable, but advanced fishers may prefer a lightweight graphite rod for the extra control.
Length: Longer rods can cast further, which is better for saltwater fishing or fishing on larger bodies of water. A shorter rod offers more control and makes an ideal ice fishing rod.
Rod and reel combo: Many fishing rods and reels are sold as package deals to save you from mixing and matching reels to rods.
Grip: Grips are either cork or foam. Trolling fishers prefer foam grips since they’re more durable and less abrasive, but fly fishers appreciate the extra sensitivity they experience with cork. Grips also vary in length. Shorter pistol grips are moulded to your hand for better control, longer grips are for two-handed casting.
Factors to consider when buying a fishing rod
After you’ve settled on where you’re fishing and what kinds of fish you want to catch, you’ll need a reel to match your rod. A spinning reel is best for first-time fishers and bait casting, while fly fishers and more advanced fishers will need different reels based on whether they’re trolling, casting or bottom fishing.
Getting the right fishing pole and reel is the first step to a great fishing trip. Now that you know the basics, you can look for fishing lures and other fishing gear and start fishing.
