Choosing the Right Fishing Rod
You have just returned from the local bait and tackle shop with your head spinning. You had no idea that there was such a variety of fishing rods available and now you feel uncertain as to which rod is right for what you want. Before you headed off to hunt for a fishing rod, you would have been well served to be armed with some important information. Let’s talk about what makes a good fishing rod and what doesn’t.
Just recognizing that spending a lot of money on a rod won’t automatically buy you just what you need is a good starting point. Technology lets producers create first-rate graphite rods at very reasonable prices. Many quality rods produced by name brand companies can be bought for less than $80, and many have some sort of warranty.
If you’re seeking that super special fishing rod to add to your growing collection, you’re not likely to be looking for a rod that is simply a backup to the one you normally use. Let’s face it, if it’s more than a backup, you’re looking for something different not something that’s commonplace. Drop-shooting finesse baits require a totally different rod than a rod that would be used for a pleasant, relaxing day of fishing with your children. Regardless of whether your idea of a relaxing day of fishing is fighting with a school of bluefish, trolling at sunset or working a heavy current for bass, you want to have the right rod.
The manufacturer’s labeling is on the side of the rod blank, close to the handle. Together with the name of the company and the rod series are some specifications about the rod that can be very useful in your decision-making process. Most rods will state the proper line weight range for the rod. It will also indicate the suggested lure weight for the rod, if the rod is intended for casting. As a result, if you plan to use 10-pound test line and cast medium sized bass lures, choose a rod that is up to this specific task. If you hope to fish 20-pound test and cast to bluefish schools, the label on the rod should say with some accuracy which rod would be best for you.
Another thought is the usage of braided lines. The labeling used on rods to designate suggested line weight is based upon monofilament line. Braided line has a drastically shrunk line diameter over monofilament of equivalent breaking strength. Standard 50-pound test braided line typically has a diameter of a 12–15 pound test monofilament line. Therefore, if you plan to use 50-pound braid with your new bass rod, then you it’s not necessary to find a rod rated for 50 lb. line. Simply find something that will hold the 12–15 pound diameter line.
If you are searching for a rod that will accommodate a heavier lure (1 1/3 oz or more) make sure you carefully review the rod specs. Failing to do so could result in problems casting – your line could snap off if you’ve purchased the wrong rod. A worst case scenario, you could find the tip of your rod vanish if the lure is too heavy. Rods that are thicker and heavier are designed to hold a bigger lure. So if you find that your rod seems a bit thin make sure you double check the lure specs before you cast!
River-bank fishing, stream-bank fishing and boat-fishing all have different rod length requirements. The shorter rods (8 feet maximum) are the best rods for boat fishing as they allow you greater control. River-bank fishing requires the longest rod (upwards of twelve feet) while stream-bank fishing requires something in the middle. Failure to get the right length rod for the type of fishing you are going to do can cause a number of issues that will ruin your fishing pleasure.
There are definitely other factors that could come up, and some fishing applications have need of more involved levels of decision-making. However, these central considerations will let you speedily perfect your hunt for the ideal rod. You can make use of this method to shop for rods in your local fishing retail store or even on the Internet and feel certain that you are making the right selection for your fishing needs.
After purchasing your fishing rod you will want to make sure you have the proper fishing reel to use with it. Some of the most popular reels on the market are Penn Reel, Shimano Spinning Reels, and Daiwa BG 90.
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