How to choose the right fishing rod
How to choose the right fishing rod
Browsing through thousands of fishing rods in an angling store or online, can be a daunting prospect for newcomers to the pastime.
Even seasoned anglers may sometimes find it difficult to choose a new rod when faced with the huge number of different products on the market.
However, selecting the right fishing rod for your requirements should not be a difficult process, providing you know exactly what you are looking for from the outset.
The good news is that the sophistication of modern rod designs, together with the increasingly competitive international market, means that today's anglers have more chance of finding their perfect fishing rod at a good price.
Firstly, allow common sense to prevail. If you're just starting out in the world of angling, you can rule out fishing rods with huge price tags and look at more affordable options.
Rods with a specific application can come later, as this early stage should be all about finding a rod that is both comfortable to use and allows you to develop your technique.
Other practical considerations are also important when choosing your first fishing rod.
If you own a boat or will be using your new purchase close to home, a single-piece rod is likely to suit your needs.
This kind of rod is generally more sensitive and robust than a multi-sectional rod, although advances in modern technology have meant that the latter type is now catching up in terms of usability.
Multi-sectional fishing rods will appeal to anglers who frequently need to travel for their fishing, as they are considerably easier to transport.
Another factor that is likely to influence your decision is a preference for spinning or casting reels.
Experts will usually recommend a spinning rod for inexperienced anglers, as this type of equipment allows the user to cast a lighter lure and is generally more manageable.
Cheaper Spinning rods are usually made from graphite or fibreglass , more expensive from carbon they range between five feet and 9 feet in length, although longer models are sometimes employed for saltwater and salmon fishing upto 11ft
One of the main differences between spinning and casting rods is that the former type sees the fishing reel hanging beneath the rod, instead of sitting on top.
It is important to remember that the weight of your fishing rod should correspond with the size of the fish you intend to catch.
Spinning rods are manufactured in five basic weights - ultra-light action, light action, medium action, medium-heavy action and heavy action.
As a general rule, ultra-light and light action rods will be suitable for trout and various smaller fish, while heavy action equipment is used for species such as large catfish, large carp and pike and also more suitable for sea species such as Bass & Pollack.
