Knowing The Right Fishing Rod For Your needs

The basic rule of thumb for buying a fishing rod is to match the rod to the type of fishing you intend to do most often. But how do you go about that?

For the average lake trout a standard rod of about 6 feet will do fine. In an area near the shore where there are lots of trees, something highly responsive is a good idea. Control really counts in circumstances like these. A flexible rod, a little on the shorter side that supports at least 10 lb line is great.

An ultra-light rod might be used to fish off a pier or for younger anglers. The rod should support lines between 2-6 lbs and lures of up to 1/8 oz. For a slightly heavier-duty purpose, something made for 4-10 lb line and 5/16 oz lures is preferable.

For those looking for a rod that's a bit more general purpose, a spinning rod will perform under a wide range of conditions. Typically between 6 and 7 feet long, they'll support lures with bait up to 1/2 oz with ease. Designed more for freshwater fishing, they'll work well for light duty saltwater fishing as well.

Fly fishing is one of America's favorite pastimes and the scenes from films like A River Runs Through It give a good feel for how great it can be. It's a little harder to learn to do well, but the rod itself is easy to handle. The handle is usually much shorter, just a few inches, than the standard 8-12 inch cork or foam-covered style of regular rods. When they do have longer handles, they tend to be much more tapered.

The reel on a fly fishing rod isn't used for casting, but only for holding line. As the name of the style suggests, the rod is pulled up and flicked, just like you've seen in the movies. That implies the need for a rod that is flexible, lightweight and has good action.

For those who need a little more security - which can be especially useful for those larger fighting fish - a tapered handle with a fighting butt is recommended. A 'fighting butt' is a handle with a small, integrated curved piece like an immovable trigger. It provides a sturdy hold for a finger to prevent the rod from being yanked away.

Lastly, check the type of guides or ferrules used on the rod and how they're secured. These are the 'eyes' that the line feeds through from the reel to the tip-top (the end). Some are made of ceramic others simple metal alloys. They should be very low friction for easy casting and rewind, to prevent snagging. They should be attached securely, usually with multiple winds of extremely strong fiber.

Spend some time considering the type of fish you're going after and where. Saltwater rods, for example, are made to stand up to a harsher environment, since the fish tend to be larger and the water will corrode lesser materials.