Before going fishing for the first time, every beginner faces an important question: which fishing rod to buy? Choosing the right rod is the key to comfortable and successful fishing. It is important to consider many factors, such as the type of fish, the conditions, and even personal preferences.
By the way, about the word “fishing rod”. This is what we are used to using when we talk about fishing tools. However, professionals use a different term – rod. This is what designates the rod itself, to which the reel, fishing line and other elements are attached.
What we will tell you about:
types of rods
There are several main types of fishing rods: casting, carp, feeder, spinning and float. Each of them is designed for certain conditions, fishing style and has its own nuances.
casting rod
Designed to cast heavy baits at a considerable distance and guarantees high casting accuracy. It is used in conjunction with a special reel and requires certain skills.
carp rod
This species is very durable and flexible, as it is specifically designed to catch carp and other large fish.
feeder rod
It is used for bottom fishing with a feeder. What does it mean? The rod allows you to bring the bait to the bottom of the reservoir and wait for a bite, controlling the process with the help of a sensitive tip.
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spinning rod
Expert from the “World of Hunting” store
“Around the world, spinning rods are the most common. Many anglers use them. This is a versatile tool that is suitable for hunting a variety of artificial baits.”
A properly selected spinning rod helps the angler to feel the behavior of the bait, control its movement and respond quickly to a bite. The wrong choice greatly complicates the casting and retrieval process.
Spinning is necessary for catching predatory fish (pike, zander, perch, chub and other species) using artificial baits (spinners, wobblers, silicone). The main task is to ensure accurate casting and high-quality work so that the bait attracts its prey.
Basic parameters of a spinning rod.
Length
The length of a spinning rod directly affects the casting distance and control over the bait. This parameter varies from 1.8 to 3.6 m.
short rods (1.8–2.1 m). Ideal for fishing in tight spaces (small ponds and banks), where precise bait control is important.
Medium rods (2.4–2.7 m). A versatile option suitable for most conditions from rivers to lakes. Provides a good balance between casting distance and bait control.
Long rods (2.7–3.6 m). Suitable for fishing from a boat and casting over long distances. They facilitate the delivery of bait over long distances and provide better coverage of the reservoir.
Photo: ClarkandCompany / istockphoto.com
Build
The action of a spinning rod is a characteristic that describes how the rod bends under load. It can be divided into four types.
EF – Extra Fast (Very Fast) – the maximum bend of the rod occurs at 1/5 of the whip. Designed for fishing in places where you are limited by obstacles on the shore (trees, bushes). This system requires short and sharp strokes, precise casts, maximum sensitivity and maneuverability.
F – Fast – maximum bend at 1/3 of the whip. Designed for fishing from a boat, also suitable for fishing in difficult conditions. Less sensitive than the first one.
M – Moderate (medium) – the upper half of the whip is bent. A medium option, more suited to fishing from the shore or coastal strip. Resistant to loads, designed for longer casts.
S – Slow (slow) – the rod bends along its entire length. Excellent for fishing from the shore. Designed for longer casting of light baits and smoother operation. Thanks to additional cushioning, the load is reduced when fishing for large fish.
Proof
Spin Test: The weight range of lures for which the rod is optimal. Measured in grams.
Test, g (min) – minimum weight. This means that smaller baits cannot be cast over long distances.Test, g (max.) – maximum indicator. Indicates how much weight of the spinner can be used without overloading the rod.
The higher the test of the rod, the heavier the bait you can cast without breaking, and the more it will withstand the pulls of larger fish.
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Spinning rod materials
The main materials used to make spinning rods are fiberglass, composite and carbon. Each of them has its own characteristics.
Fiberglass spinning rods are strong and flexible, but heavy. Their price is usually lower than carbon rods. Composite rods are made from a mixture of carbon fiber and fiberglass. They have a medium hardness. This is an intermediate option in terms of weight and strength. They are lighter than fiberglass, but less sensitive than carbon. Spinning rods made of carbon fiber (carbon fiber) are light and sensitive, but at the same time quite expensive and fragile. They are chosen by experienced anglers because they have increased sensitivity and provide high casting accuracy.
Photo: shironosov / istockphoto.com
What else should you pay attention to?
Lever
Cork – Lightweight, warm and stretchy material. Does not slip in your hands.EVE – light and elastic, similar in properties to cork, but it is an artificial material. It has greater adhesion.Neoprene – foamed synthetic material, commonly used in fishing rods intended for sea fishing.Metal – cold and does not rust. Used in combination with other materials. Gives the rod a special style.Plastic – It is usually used in combination with other materials to add style and reduce overall cost.
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Passing rings
It is important to choose a spinning rod with high-quality guides. They should be wear-resistant and not damage the fishing line. Modern guides are usually made of aluminum oxide, silicon carbide (SiC) or other materials.
Their number affects the distribution of the load along the entire rod, the possibility of long casts, the smooth passage of the line along the workpiece and the weight of the spinning rod.
Many manufacturers follow a certain rule. Number of rings = rod length in feet – 1. Let’s look at an example. With a rod length of seven feet (approximately 214 cm), six guides must be installed, including one shade.
Reel holder
It must be comfortable and reliable so that the reel is firmly attached to the rod.
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Floating rod
professional fisherman
“The float rod is a classic version with a float for fishing peaceful fish. It is used in small bodies of water with moderate currents. There are fewer problems with this type of rod. Retrieval only takes about five minutes. It is fast and convenient for those who are just learning to fish.”
Subspecies of floating reed.
Floating rods are divided into two main types: telescopic and plug-in. Each of them has its own characteristics.
Telescopic rods
This type of handle is also called a steering wheel. Its design consists of retractable sections that decrease in diameter from the handle to the top. It is convenient for transport and storage.
Fly rods do not have guides, which makes them easy to use, especially for beginners. The length usually reaches 10 meters. A reel is not required for such rods; it is enough to choose the appropriate equipment: fishing line, float, hook and lead.
It is important for a beginner to choose a suitable place for fishing. Floating rods are most often used in ponds and small rivers. For your first fishing trips, I recommend starting with a telescopic rod, as it is easier to handle.
Plug rods
These rods consist of several sections that are connected by ferrules. They require free space to work, as well as additional equipment. Fishing rods are popular among experienced anglers and are often used in sports competitions.
Photo: aywan88 / istockphoto.com
Basic parameters of a floating rod.
Length. It is selected based on the fishing conditions. Consider where you are going to fish: on the shore or in the water. This parameter is usually indicated on the rod itself.
Number of elbows and rings. What does this parameter mean? The more elbows a rod has, the more compact it is and the easier it is to transport. However, this can affect its strength. Rings play an important role in load distribution. They affect casting distance and smooth line movement.
Floating rod materials
Fiberglass – Durable, but the heaviest option.
Coal — light and sensitive rod material. It is quite durable when used correctly and can handle any fish. But carbon rods require careful handling.
Compound – a material that combines carbon and fiberglass. This is a great option for beginners. Composite fishing rods do not require complex maintenance and are more economical.
Photo: AscentXmedia / istockphoto.com
proper care
Cleaning
After each fishing session, the fishing rod should be cleaned with a cloth or napkin, removing dirt and salt water (if fishing was done in the sea). It is important to pay special attention to the sealing rings and gaskets so that no dirt or sand particles remain on them.
Storage
It is best to store the spinning rod in a dry place, protected from sudden temperature changes. It is advisable to use tubes or covers to prevent mechanical damage. It is best to buy a plastic model. This way, the risk of damage is reduced to a minimum. The cover itself should be selected to match the length of the spinning rod.
Periodic inspection
It is important to periodically check the condition of the guides and reel seat, as well as to monitor the integrity of the blank and, if necessary, quickly repair the rod or replace parts.
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