All about Fishing Rods
Imagine standing on the bank of a
swiftly moving stream in the shade of a gnarled willow,
your fishing rod bent beneath the weight of an unusually
large catch. The type of rod you choose is important for
a moment like this. It can determine whether or not you
land that fish.
A fishing rod is a rod of graphite, fiberglass, steel,
wood or bamboo that is used for the purpose of catching
fish. Fishing filament, also called fishing line, is
threaded through the ferrules (eyes) along the flexible
rod. One end winds around a reel, which is located at
the base of the pole. The other end of the line has a
barbed hook attached to it. This hook is where you place
the bait. Your reel has a handle which you turn to reel
in the line once a fish has taken the bait.
Fishing rods vary in size between 4 feet (for children)
and 16 feet. The average rod is 6 feet in length. The
longer the rod, the more force is put on the angler's
arms. However, your fishing rod is the backbone of your
fishing tackle and you need to choose a rod that is
right for you. The length of the rod you choose depends
on two things. The first is the species of fish that you
wish to catch. The other thing you have to consider is
the landscape of the fishing location and the type of
water.
If the landscape around your fishing hole has a lot of
trees and overhead branches, a short, flexible rod is
best. Short strong rods are best for landing game fish.
Flexible, thin rods that are 10 to 12 feet in length are
best if wind conditions are moderate. Stronger and
thicker rods should be used for large, aggressive fish
such as northern pike, muskellunge, walleye and Arctic
char. These fish would quickly snap a light and more
flexible pole. Flexibility, which is the amount that the
rod can be bent before breaking, can be determined by
the diameter of the pole. Light rods are thin and
flexible, while stronger rods are thicker and more
rigid.
When you look at a fishing rod, you will see several
metal rings that are spaced from the handle to the tip.
These are ferrules. They guide your fishing line and
help it to cast and retrieve smoothly. The tip ferrule
directs your cast. Your rod probably also has a reel
seat that helps secure the reel to your rod. The reel
seat is placed near the handle grip.
Your rod is the most important tool that you will use
while fishing and they come in a wide range of types,
styles and lengths. Types of fishing rods include
bamboo, fiberglass and graphite.
Bamboo rods can be as basic as an inexpensive pole with
a line attached, to very expensive handcrafted rods that
are used for fly fishing. Simple bamboo poles are great
for kids. Expensive bamboo poles make great fly fishing
rods. Bamboo rods run from $5 to hundreds of dollars for
handcrafted fly fishing rods. If you are not planning on
taking up fly fishing, fiberglass and graphite rods are
best.
Fiberglass rods are great for beginners and kids. They
come in a variety of lengths and flexibility. They're
reasonably priced and it's easy to find a fiberglass rod
that will fit your needs. They stand up well and require
very little or no maintenance. Experienced anglers
prefer graphite rods because they are very lightweight
and extremely strong. Graphite is the best of the basic
rod types.
If you are just beginning your life as a fisherman, you
might consider buying a prepackaged rod and reel, but
these are not something you will use once you have a
little experience under your belt. If you're not sure
you will enjoy fishing, borrow a rod from a family
member or friend, instead of investing money in tackle
that you may not use for long. More experienced anglers
should choose a rod and reel unit over the prepackaged
ones.
If you wish to become a successful and skilled angler,
you need to choose a fishing rod that compliments your
style. Your rod is an extension of your arm and the
backbone of your fishing tackle. Choosing a rod doesn't
have to be complicated. Take into consideration where
and how often you fish. If you're a beginner, buy a
reasonably priced rod and reel and then purchase a more
expensive one when you've honed your skills.
Do you plan to freshwater or saltwater fish? Freshwater
fishing is done in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams that
are found in the interior of the country. Saltwater
fishing is done in oceans and on the coast. Be sure to
choose a rod that is compatible with its job. Though
some rods can be used outside of their intended
application, it's best to choose a rod that is the right
one for the job. This ensures a successful fishing
experience.
If you have trouble finding a rod that fits your arms
and is as comfortable as a pair of old sneakers, ask a
family member or friend who has angling experience to go
along to help. Or seek the assistance of the staff at
your local fishing store. They'll be glad to give you a
few pointers that will help you choose the fishing rod
that is right for you. |
