The fishing rod is a very important gear for fishing. Selecting the right rod for fishing is not less important than choosing the right pair of shoes.
There are different types of fishing rod available in the market. They vary according to their use and type of fish you are going to catch with it. Each fishing rod is designed for different fishing purposes and places where you want to fish. In this article, I will tell you how you can choose the right fishing rod.
Choosing the Right Fishing Rod
There are some points that you need to look at while buying a fishing rod. In the following article, you will see how you can choose the right fishing rod:
Understanding Fishing Rod Measurement and Specification
Choose a Length
The length of a rod is the distance from the tip to all the way down of the butt. Fishing rods can be from 4 feet to 14 feet long. Most of the large-sized rod can be dissembled into several pieces. It helps you to transport the rod easily from one place to another.
When you are using a short rod, you will be able to cast in a shorter distance and usually, these rods are used for lightweight lures. Short rods are appropriate for big game fishing. On the other hand, longer rods are good for casting further. That is the main reason longer rods are good when you are fishing from the shoreline.
Decide on a Weight
The weight of the fishing rod decides how much weight it can carry. It also tells you how strong the rod is. The strength of the rod depends on what lures or bait you will be using.
Understand the Action
The bending point of the rod is the action of the rod. This range can vary from “ultralight” to “heavy”. Heavy action means the rod will bend closer to the tip and a lighter rod will bend closer from the butt of the rod. A heavy action means a stiffer backbone. That means it is used to catch bass and other large fishes. When you are targeting to catch smaller fishes, lighter rods are perfect for you.
Decide on a Material
Fishing rods are generally made from graphite, fiberglass or a combination of both materials. Every material is good for a different kind of fishing. Graphite rods are lighter and stiffer. They are much more sensitive and expensive than fiberglass rods.
Fiberglass rods are heavier but flexible than graphite rods. You cannot easily break a fiberglass rod.
When you are a fisherman who loves to fish in various locations and loves to catch various fishes then a rod made from both materials is the best option.
Buy a Rod That Matches Your Needs
Determine What Level Fisherman You Are
If you are a beginner and have the planning of fishing less frequently, then you can buy a less expensive rod. But if your goal if further extended, then you can invest some more money in a rod that will last more longer. If you are a beginner, then you can use spinning rods than using a casting rod.
Determine The Place Where You Will Be Fishing
When you are traveling to some other place for fishing, then it is a wise decision to buy a fishing rod which you can divide into parts. But if you want to fish around your home or on the boat then you can buy a fishing rod which remains in one single piece.
The kind of bait you will be using
Anglers use either live bait, referred to as casting or lures. A casting fisherman would want to use a more sensitive rod to feel each small movement in the water. On the other hand, a lure fisherman would want a stiffer rod so that he can manipulate the rod and imitate the movement of the fish. Decide your suitable technique while choosing your rod.
Determine The Quality of Your Fishing Rod
After looking for the technical part of the fishing rod, now it’s time for the physical appearance of the rod. Let’s take a look at some important factors:
- Hold the fishing rod in your hand which you have selected to buy. Comfort is a very important factor while choosing a fishing rod. A similar fishing rod can feel different in different peoples’ hand.
- Examine the rod for any cracks or poor workmanship in the rod. Any manufacturing defect can break the rod in the future.
- Check the guides of your rod. Guides are the loops that attach the lines to the rod. They can be made from metal or ceramic. Rod with more number of guides is better than others because the line is more controlled by the rod.
Conclusion
Choosing a perfect fishing rod is not a very hard task to do. But it is nothing less important also. The success of your fishing trip depends a lot on your fishing rod. If you follow the tips oi have given above, you will be able to choose the best fishing rod for you according to your requirements.