Choosing the Right Fishing Rod
Posted: Monday, November 09, 2009
by James Swift
http://www.saltwaterfishing247.com
Simply purchasing the right fishing rod seems like it ought to be an undemanding job, and if you're just looking for a starter rod and reel combination, it normally is. However, if you have gotten to the place where you appreciate the need for special rods to suit individual fishing needs, it can become tricky. One way to get in totally over your head is to browse at a fishing retail store and try to pick one rod out of their huge supply.
Once you've passed that hurdle, it's time to consider the purpose you plan for the rod to accomplish. Is it going to be a second rod to match the first, or are you seeking a rod to add to your collection and use for drop-shotting small finesse baits? Perhaps you need a rod for catching striped bass in fast-moving currents, where 1 lb. of lead is essential in order to get your bait all the way to the bottom. These are questions that should affect your choice for the correct rod.
The manufacturer's labeling can be found on the rod blank's side, close to the handle. Alongside the name of the company and the rod series are some particulars about the rod that can be very valuable in your decision-making endeavor. Most rods will clearly state the appropriate line weight range for that rod. It will also specify the suggested lure weight for the rod, if it is meant for casting. Therefore, if you plan to use 10-pound test line and cast medium sized bass lures, pick a rod that is equipped for this particular task. If you expect to fish 20-pound test and cast to bluefish schools, the label should say with some accurateness which rod would be appropriate for your needs.
A new consideration is the usage of braided lines. The labeling used on rods to assign suggested line weight is derived from monofilament line. Braided line has a significantly shrunk line diameter over monofilament of comparable breaking strength. Customary 50-pound test braided line usually has the diameter of a 1215 pound test monofilament line. As a result, if you intend to use 50-pound braid with your new bass rod, then it's not essential to find a rod rated for 50 lb. line. Merely find one that will accommodate 1215 pound diameter line.
You also need to contemplate the weight of the lures you mean to cast with your new purchase, obviously. The rod labeling will help a great deal when you come to this portion of the decision-making process. If the rod is rated for lure weights of 1/8 oz.1/4 oz., then it will be lightweight and have a rather thin diameter. If it is rated for lures of 3/4 oz.1 3/4 oz., then it is most likely heavier and a great deal thicker in diameter. If you aim to cast lures that weigh less than what is recommended, then your cast will probably be unsuccessful. Lures heavier than what is recommended risk breaking your line on your cast or, worse yet, breaking your rod.
The very last thing to think about is the rod's length. This should be relatively easy for you to understand. A quick explanation is that if you're fishing out of a boat, choose a rod no more than 8 feet long. They immediately become unmanageable. If you're fishing from the shoreline next to a trout stream, you will almost certainly need a shorter rod to help you cast from between the trees on the bank. If you're fishing from the shoreline on a large river (or the surf) and must cast long distances, find a rod in the 912 ft family.
There are without doubt other factors that could come about, and some fishing applications have need of more complicated levels of decision-making. Nonetheless, these central thoughts will let you quickly perfect your hunt for the perfect rod. You can utilize this method to shop for rods in a neighborhood fishing retail store or even online and feel positive that you are making the correct selection for your individual fishing needs.
James Swift is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys writing informative and educational articles on fishing and fishing supplies. He has writen a variety of articles including information on fishing supplies such as Shimano Reels, Daiwa Reels, and Penn Reels.
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