When shopping for a good fishing rod that is right for the great fisherman you want to be, it is best to see how it fits you, or how you fit it. You should test the grip of the rod and make sure it fits nicely in the palm of your hand. Rods that are good for light bait and small fish should be about 4 to 6 feet in length. Rods 6 feet or longer are best for rough fish such as bass and long casting distance.
The kind of rod you choose depends on the various fish you are going after and the conditions you most likely will be in. Popping rods are longer rods with a longer handle and a medium action. They get their name because the qualities they possess make it easier to fish a live shrimp under a popping cork. For top water fishing, bait casting rods are ideal with a heavy line. They have a shorter length and heavier backbone for good wrist action. Spinning rods are best for general fishing. Spinning is easy to learn, taking less than a half hour of practice before you become an accurate fisherman. There are also rods for fly fishing, saltwater fishing and ice fishing.
What to Look for
The rods for spinning and casting can cost about $50 to $100, with higher quality rods selling for up to $350 or more. But cost does not always mean quality. There are fishing experts who brag of a great casting rod and reel purchased for only $100 that does not have one flaw after years of use.
Great fishing rods and reels can be purchased from mail order catalogs for $50 to $80, according to many fishing enthusiasts. Other people like to check out publications and online sites for reviews of products before purchasing a reliable rod. Some of the best rods can be found in small tackle shops.
Common Pitfalls
There are more parts to a simple fishing rod than you would think. You might pick up a fine rod, only to learn later that the handle could be just a little larger. There are many rods that are good for a certain type of fishing, but not for another. A fly fisherman would probably want different gear than a live bait caster. The bottom line is that to find a good fishing rod, it may take some searching for a very light reel that casts flawlessly, but worth it in the long run.
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