If you are just starting to get into sports fishing, one of the first things you have to do is to choose a fishing rod. Just as a basketball player needs the right pair of shoes, or the NASCAR driver needs a well-tuned race car, having the right fishing rod will go a long way in making you productive on the water.
However, sports fishing has gone through many improvements and innovations over the past century. Technology has given rise to many types of fishing rods, and the sheer number of choices can sometimes stop the most seasoned anglers in their tracks.
Below are some tips on how to pick the right fishing rod for you. This simple guide can help remove the guesswork out of fishing rod shopping and send you on your way to the lake, waterway, stream, or wherever you decide to spend a day of fishing.
Fishing Rods Basics
Much of your time fishing will be spent grasping the handle of the rod. Whether you are casting or recovering, you will be holding this part. It stands to reason that you give this much thought when choosing a fishing rod.
Aside from the handle, you must also focus on the bar’s overall balance. A stronger rod will let you cast heavier draws, but it won’t be as sensitive to a fish strike. In addition, it may not be flexible enough for a lightweight line. On the other hand, lighter fishing rods might be flexible and delicate, but they might be able to keep up when fighting with bigger types of game fish.
Along the same lines, you must decide between getting a shorter rod or a longer one. Shorter rods are sturdier and give more power when fighting fish, making them suitable for trolling or big game fishing.
With longer rods, you can cast the line with more distance. In surfcasting and fly fishing, for instance, the fishing rods could reach up to 14 feet in length. They can typically be disassembled into four parts for easier storage and transport.
Types of Fishing Rod Materials
Fishing rods today are normally made of fiberglass or graphite. In some cases, it can be made from a mixture of the two materials – a composite. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will have much impact on your fishing success.
- Fiberglass
Fiberglass has been a part of sport fishing for ages, and for good reason. It is strong and durable, which means that it can stand up to any beating when battling a game fish. What is more, it is relatively cheap.
One thing that can be said about fiberglass is that it is pliable by nature. While this characteristic makes it ideal for some aspects, it gives fiberglass rods one disadvantage: the amount of feedback they can offer is limited. In addition, it is a bit on the heavy side compared to the other types of materials.
- Graphite
The graphite rod is a lighter alternative to fiberglass. It is a stiffer material, which means that manufacturers can use less materials to achieve the same stiffness or sturdiness. The result is a much lighter fishing rod that is sensitive to bites. But before you rush to your nearest tackle shop and reach for a graphite rod, consider that they are more brittle and pricier than fiberglass rods.
- Composite Rods
If you want the best of both worlds, you should go for composite rods. They are the most popular choice among anglers who are after performance above all else. They have the flexibility of the fiberglass and the strength of graphite. Your decision will depend if all these features are worth the extra cost that it commands.
Read More: How To Find The Best Quality Fishing Gear?
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