Top 100 Fishing Tips & More

Keys to Buying Your Best Fishing Rod

Posted on September 22, 2009

You want to buy a fishing rod, but there are so many choices, you have no idea where to begin. This article will list some keys point on how to buy the best rod for your needs. You’ll also have to do some research, specifically about the type of fish you want to catch and where you’ll be fishing. That will narrow your choices considerably. To further understand your options, listed below are descriptions of fishing rod materials, brands and explanations of the different types of rods.

The Right Material from the Right Manufacturer

Older fishing rods were made from wood, many of bamboo, but modern rods are usually made with either fiberglass or graphite. Fiberglass rods are stronger, have more flexibility and are usually less expensive. They can be heavy, though, which can make your arm tire out quickly. Graphite, a composite of carbon fibers, is often described as having a better “feel”. Graphite rods are strong and flexible, less so than fiberglass, but they also aren’t as heavy. Graphite rods are usually more expensive.

There are fishing rod manufacturers all over the world, but the majority of rods are made in Asia, particularly in China. Because there are so many companies making fishing rods, quality can vary quite a bit, so you’ll need to do some research. Find a well-known brand and buy from a reputable dealer that is knowledgeable, supportive and sells at reasonable prices.

Four Basic Types of Rods

Fishing rods can be divided into spin rods, surf rods, game fishing rods and fly fishing rods. They vary in weight and length, types of fish and types of water.

Spin Rods

The majority of general purpose rods are spin rods. They’re great for freshwater (though some can be used in saltwater), whether you fish from a pier, in a boat, or in a small river. Spin rods are designed to cast and retrieve bait and lures, and range in length from 1.6 to 2.4 meters. Eggbeater style reels work well with these rods.

Surf Rods

Surf rods are designed to cast bait and sinkers from the beach into the surf. These rods are heavy in weight and makeup, allowing the angler to catch big fish. Surf rods are usually very long, too, ranging from 3 to 4.2 meters in length. Eggbeater style reels work well with these rods, as do overhead/conventional and side reels.

Game Fishing Rods

Game fishing rods are the heavyweights. They’re thick, stiff and can hold fishing line from 10 to 37 kilograms in strength. If you’re going after large ocean fish, this is the rod for you. Game fishing rods often come with a gimbal on the butt for use with a fishing chair, and instead of regular line guides, have “roller” guides.

Fly Fishing Rods

Fly fishing rods are lightweight and sometimes have so much bend that they “whip”. They’re most often used in freshwater for trout, halibut and salmon, but heavier fly fishing rods can be used in saltwater. These rods range in length from 1.8 to 3.6 meters, and are designed to hold fly fishing reels.

Share and Enjoy: