Freshwater Fishing Rods
@tableOfContents(omitlevel1)
Whether you're fishing from a
baitcasting model. Every angler has to ask him or herself: What length do I want? What power do I require? And what type of grip do I prefer?
And it continues with performance factors: How many line guides does the rod have? Does the rod have the proper action? But as daunting as this may all seem, a little research and a discerning eye will pay off with improved angling.
Types
* The two main types of fishing rod models are '''baitcasting''' and '''spinning'''.
* Each rod is defined by the type of reel they accommodate baitcasting rods are obviously designed for baitcasting reels, much as spinning rods are for spinning reels.
'''
Baitcasting Rods'''
* On a baitcasting setup the
baitcasting reel sits on the top of the rod.
* The rod features a trigger grip that allows the rod to be held securely when releasing the line and casting.
* Because they're designed for the reel to sit on top these rods also work well with spincasting reels.
* The handle is shorter than a spinning rod's.
'''
Spinning Rods'''
!
* Spinning rods are designed to be used with a
spincasting reel.
* Spinning reels hang from the bottom of the rod.
* The line guides (more on them below) are on the bottom of the rod also.
* The handle on spinning rods is typically longer to provide balance.
* There is no trigger on a spinning rod.
Length and Weight
* Rods come in various sizes but it's important that the length and weight be proportional to the type of fish you're going after.
* Fishing for larger fish requires a longer and heavier poll (an 8 ft pole that can handle 40 pound line is good).
* If you'll be using heavier lures or line you'll also need a more heavy weight, longer pole.
* Longer poles also allow you to cast further.
Action
* Action is the measure of flexibility and workability a rod has.
* Terms like ultraheavy or heavy are terms manufacturers use to describe the rod's action from the most flexible to least.
* '''
Fast Action'''
** These rods offer the least flexibility.
** They're ideal for targeting large gamefish, or for fishing in extremely heavy cover or weeds.
** The stiffness allows you to have more powerful hook sets.
* '''
Medium Action'''
** A medium action rod is very versatile, and can be used for a number of applications.
** They are flexible enough to provide the feel needed to fish smaller species, but powerful enough to catch larger fish.
* '''
Slow Action'''
** Slow action rods are the most flexible.
** They are mostly used for panfish because they provide a better fight for the angler.
** They also ensure the the hook is not ripped clear through the mouth.
Materials/Construction
* Most rods are made from either graphite or fiberglass, or a composite of these two materials.
* '''
Graphite'''
** Graphite is probably the most popular rod material.
** These rods are lightweight and extremely sensitive.
** They are also very flexible, while remaining strong and powerful enough to land big fish.
** Graphite comes in a variety of different "modulus ratings" a measurement of the strength of the rod's fibers.
** Higher modulus ratings (50 million) mean stronger and denser fibers are used; this produces lighter weights, faster action, and more sensitivity.
** The downside is that higher rated rods are more brittle.
** As a comparison, fiberglass has a modulus rating between six and 13 million, while graphite has a rating between 33 and 60 million.
** Graphite rods tend to be more expensive.
* '''
Fiberglass'''
** Fiberglass is more durable than graphite but heavier and less sensitive.
** The durability of fiberglass makes it a good choice for beginers and children.
** Fiberglass rods are also less expensive that their graphite equivalents.
* '''
Composites'''
** Composite rods give the best of both graphite and fiberglass.
** They have fiberglass' durability and graphite's power, sensitivity, and light weight.
** Composite rods make up the largest percentage of rods that are currently on the market.
Grips
* '''
Pistol Grip'''
** A pistol grip is the shortest type of grip.
** It is contoured to the shape of your hand with a hook for your index finger.
** This hook helps in casting more accurately.
* '''
Triggerstick'''
** A triggerstick grip is longer, and designed for longer, two-handed casts.
Materials
* Grips are typically made from either cork or EVA foam.
* Cork offers a good feel, a solid grip, and a more natural feel.
* EVA foam is more durable and weatherresistant.
Guides
* Line guides are small circular holes made of plastic, metal or ceramic, that are positioned along the rod's shaft to control the fishing line.
* For baitcasting rods, the line guides are positioned on the top of the rod.
** They're smaller than spinning rod holes to reduce the line play.
* Spinning rods have their line guides at the bottom near the reel.
* These guides get larger toward the base of the rod.
* The number of line guides is determined by the rod's length
Top Manufacturers
*
Berkley
*
Eagle Claw
*
Frabill
*
Master Fishing Tack
*
OKUMA
*
Outer Banks
*
Powell
*
Remington
*
Sage
*
Shakespeare
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