Anyone who has browsed a display of sea fishing rods has noticed some are longer, others are heftier and several have larger guides. Near the rod racks there is most likely a display case with a dozen or more ocean fishing reels, and that selection is equally as diverse. Outfitting a rod with the right reel is one of the keys to catching more fish on a consistent basis.
Salt Water Rods
The majority of deep sea fishing rods are fabricated from graphite, fiberglass and bamboo. However, the durability and versatility of fiberglass makes it the preferred rod type for most ocean fishing adventures.
Rods for species like tuna and jacks have a stiff top section that allows you to turn a hooked fish before it can get its head and escape to open water. Conversely, rods for fishing with live bait have a flexible tip that limits the possibility of your hook pulling loose from soft-mouth species such as flounder or tilapia.
Salt Water Reels
Just as you can find rods for certain types of fish, you can find reels that are better suited for certain types of deep sea fishing. Big game reels have a larger spool to hold heavier line, casting reels have a high-speed gear ratio for retrieving lures, and bait reels allow you to cast an anchovy well away from the boat. Each of the different styles has specific features to ensure the reel’s performance is up to your expectations.
The reel you select should seat correctly and be in balance with the rod. In addition, not all fishermen have the same grip, and the reel should have the feel and action you like. In some instances, the new reel might become a favorite before it's taken the first trip.
Practical Approach to Gear
A good rule that applies to anyone with an appreciation of the sea fishing experience is simply: bring only the gear you plan to use and leave the rest at home. Many spinning and conventional reels have interchangeable spools, allowing you to fish with different line sizes. In addition, an intermediate rod works for a number of species and a longer, heavier rod can be used for casting lures.
Storing Rods and Reels
Store rods in an overhead rack, a wall rack or standing in a closet. The main concern is to keep them in a place where they won’t be damaged.
You should clean reels used for the sea with fresh water and lightly oil them after each trip. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the type of lubricant that is best for your reel. Protect the reel with a cotton cloth or in a soft pouch and store it in a hard case. This ensures that the reel stays in good working order.
Value and Quality
Fiberglass rods that are priced below another similar type are generally equally as reliable in most instances. However, fishing reels are intricate pieces of equipment, and price translates to quality. Internal components such as drag washers, gears and bearings should be fabricated from materials that are reliable. In this regard, name brands are the best consideration when purchasing a deep sea reel.
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