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
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
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. Shop for Fishing Rods Fishing
Facts
|
