Selecting the Right Rod

How to Select the Right Fishing Rod

Rods used to be simple, made with plain bamboo and twine. Fishing line was made from horse’s hair. It required a lot of maintenance, had to be thoroughly dried between fishing sessions and often rotted away.

Time passed and someone designed a rod that could be more easily stored. The rod could separate into different pieces and had metallic loops to act as guides for the fishing line. A wheel was added to store the fishing line, which was now made from silk. The silk line was an improvement, but it also needed to be dried before being stored.

Fishing Gear of Today

Advances in technology have brought many changes to the world of fishing. One of the most amazing breakthroughs is the development of carbon composites, which now allows fishing rods to be made of carbon and Kevlar (yes, the stuff that makes bullet-proof vests bullet-proof). These rods are extremely strong and durable, and are amazingly lightweight.

Fishing line reached its ultimate when scientists developed synthetic materials from petroleum. Many products were born, among them nylon, the perfect material for fishing line. The wheels for the line advanced, too. No longer a simple spool, today’s fishing reels can be open-faced or closed, mounted on top or below the rod, can freely let line out or use a special catch to regulate the flow.

To Choose a Rod, Know Your Fish

All of these technological advances bring with them the need for research. A plain bamboo rod and horse hair won’t quite do anymore. Sure, you can give it a try, but why not see what your local retailer has in stock? Before you buy, though, you need to know what type of fish you’re going after.

Fish vary in size, so the rod will need to vary in size and/or strength and durability as well. A lightweight rod, such as a fiberglass rod, should suffice for small freshwater fish of 5 pounds or less. If you’re going after bigger fish, though, particularly game fish, you’re going to need a bigger rod. These fish are heavy, fight hard and will put tremendous strain on the equipment. Select a strong rod that can handle the battle.

Understand the Water

Where you’ll be fishing makes a difference, too. Fishing from the riverbank or the shore of a lake usually requires a 12 or 13 foot long fishing rod. If you’re in a boat or on a branch jutting into the stream, you’ll need a shorter, 6 foot rod. Fly fishing requires yet a different size rod, usually 10 or 12 feet long, because this type of fishing involves the angler wading into shallow waters to cast.

Where to Get Information

Beginners should watch other anglers to see what they use. Ask questions. Experienced fishers are usually happy to share tips about equipment and gear. You can also visit your local sporting goods store. The personnel there can explain the equipment each type of fishing requires. Before you know it, you’ll be in the great outdoors, snagging your first fish.