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Fishing Rods Buying Guide

The best way to select the perfect rod for you is to be specific about what you need.  Since different rods are suited toward certain skill levels and fit different environments, you need to determine what type of fishing  you will most often be doing.  This will help you narrow down a large market with a wide variety of products.  Once you are choosing from a select few rods,  the following guide will help you determine which is the best quality.

Action

When a fisherman is describing a rod's action, he or she is describing its flexibility.  Most rod action is classified from slow to extra fast.  Slow action rods bend along the whole length of the rod and are most commonly used for catching pan fish, while faster action rods are for catching large game fish and only tend to bend at the tip.  If you choose a rod that is in the middle, then the rod will bend closer to the middle.  This type is best suited for trout and bass fishing.

Construction

The next characteristic to consider when buying a new rod is the construction.  While fibreglass fishing rods  can be strong, durable and inexpensive, they are often not as sensitive as graphite rods.   If you're primarily fly fishing, than it makes sense to opt for a more expensive graphite model that will allow you to more easily feel when the fish bite.  Graphite rods, however, need to be more carefully maintained, as they are not as strong as fibreglass. If you want to pair strength with sensitivity, try snagging a fibreglass and graphite composite rod.  They work well for all types of fishing and are still less expensive than graphite rods.

Power

A rod’s power is a measure of its strength.  Lighter power rods are used for catching small fish, while heavier power rods are used for larger fish.  For trout fishing specifically, a medium power rod is perfect, as trout are medium-sized fish.

Grips and Guides

Fishing rod grips are commonly made from cork, and the higher quality the rod, the nicer the cork.  Cork grips are comfortable and allow for greater sensitivity, so you can feel when even the smallest fish are biting. As for the rod guides, hard ceramic works the best, as they will allow your fishing line to move smoothly and will prevent fraying.

Reels

Fisherman want to know the "gear feel" of a rod before they buy it.  The  smoother a reel turns, the better the gear feel, and the more ease with which they can cast.

Types of Rods

Major Manufacturers

Related Guides

Fishing Gear Index

Fish Finders

Fish Field Guides

External Links