Choosing the Right Fishing Rod
Buying the right fishing rod seems like it should be a simple job. If you’re only looking for a starter rod and reel combo, it can be. However, if you have reached a point where you understand the need for different rods to suit different fishing purposes, it can become difficult. One way to become completely overwhelmed is to shop at a fishing retail store and attempt to choose one rod out of their huge inventory.
The first rule in buying a fishing rod is to understand that spending outrageous amounts of money on a rod does not guarantee that the rod you’re purchasing is good. In fact, you can spend less than one hundred dollars and get a very high quality rod with a great warranty from a brand name company that will suit your purposes perfectly.
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.
It is important to note that when you’re reading the specifications provided by manufacturers about line size, they are referencing monofilament. Make sure if you’ve decided that you require a 50-lb braided line you’re not purchasing a rod that says “50-lb line” as this reference is to monofilament and the equivalent in braided line is in the twelve pound test range. Since braided line is approximately 3 1/2 times the test capacity of monofilament you’ll have to carefully review the rod specifications to ensure you don’t purchase a rod that isn’t conducive to your needs.
Rod ratings also include information about lure weights. The heavier the rod, the larger the lure it will hold. If you purchase a rod that is designed to hold a lure not more than 1/4 of an ounce and you try putting a 1 1/3 ounce lure on it, what’s like likely to happen is you’re going to break the tip of your rod off (or best case, just break your line on casting). Remember, the heavier the lure your rod is labeled for the thicker in diameter it will be and the heavier it will be.
The last thing to dwell on is the rod’s length. This should be comparatively simple for you to understand. A quick solution is that if you’re fishing out of a boat, select a rod no more than 8 feet long. They quickly become uncontrollable. If you’re fishing from the shoreline along a trout stream, you will probably need a shorter rod to help you cast from between the trees on the bank. If you’re fishing from the shoreline on a large river (or from the surf) and have to cast long distances, find something in the 9–12 ft area.
Rod manufacturers have made the process of purchasing a rod fairly simple as long as you understand what factors have to be considered before you purchase. Great decisions start with being armed with the right information as they pertain to your needs. You can shop with confidence at your local fishing retailer or online if you understand before you get started exactly what your need are going to be. This ensures that you will find the perfect rod regardless of whether it’s to add to your collection or to enjoy a day of fishing.
Choosing the correct rod is just as important as choosing the right reel. Some of the most popular reels are Shimano Spinning Reel and Daiwa Fishing Reels.
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