Freshwater Fishing Rods Buying Guide
Thinking of heading to the lake for a fun family fishing 
trip? Make sure everyone's equipped with the fishing rods that best suit his or her skill level and help him or her easily catch favourite types of fish. If you don't know what rod features make a difference in these areas, don't worry; we're here to help. Check out the following guide for some freshwater fishing rod basics that'll have you throwing the perfect cast in no time.
Two Types
The two main types of freshwater fishing rods are baitcasting rods and spinning rods.
- Baitcasting Rods
- The reel and line are located on the top of the rod.
- The trigger grip allows you to safely hold the rod while releasing the thumb bar or line release.
- Spinning Rods
- The reel and line guides are located on the bottom of the rod.
- There is no trigger grip.
- The handle length is comparable to the rod's length.
Size and Construction
Because larger fish require a larger cast in order to be successfully caught, larger rods that hold more line are best for catching the more sizeable species. And if you plan on using more line with a heavier lure, you will need to buy a longer, heavier pole that can accommodate the weight. The type of material that the rod is made out of may also impact the weight. Some of the common materials that are used include:
- Fibreglass . This is the heaviest of the materials, offering increased durability but decreased sensitivity.
- Graphite . This material has been perfected over the years to be lighter and more flexible, allowing you to easily feel a fish that nibbles on your bait. And despite its lighter weight, it is usually durable enough to catch larger fish as well.
- Composite . This combination of graphite and fibreglass allows for power, strength and sensitivity when casting.
Grips Galore
There are several type of grips that can be used on freshwater fishing rods. The grip often affects the type of casting you do, and thus, the type of fish you catch.
- Trigger grips , sometimes called triggersticks, are specially designed for longer casts that require you to use both hands.
- Pistol Grips are the shortest type grips you can get. They help you to cast more accurately, as they are contoured to the shape of your hand and include a hook on which to rest your index finger when casting.
- All grips come in either cork or EVA foam. Cork is the traditional material that provides a no-slip feeling, while EVA foam is newer, more durable material that is resistant to water damage and fluctuating temperatures.
Action!
When experienced fishermen talk about the action of their rods, they're referring to the way the rod is designed to perform when you cast or reel in a particular type of fish. The action of the rod is often affected by the lure you use and the strength of the reel --the smaller these things are, the smaller the fish you'll catch and the lighter action you'll need. Most manufacturers use terms like ultra-light, light, medium-heavy and heavy to differentiate the action among rods.
Major Manufacturers
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