I often get asked by new anglers what type of rod they should purchase. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to the question; rod selection depends on many factors including experience level, body build, preferred fishing style or comfort zone, and even personal preference. The following information is designed to introduce beginners to basic fishing equipment options and describe which types of rods make good choices for a new angler.
When planning to purchase a fishing rod, beginners should take into consideration what types of fish they will be targeting and where they intend to fish. Small freshwater panfish rods are great for kids, but the larger species found in lakes require different equipment that is more specifically designed for catching them. For instance, a large muskie or northern pike will require a much stronger and faster reel than that used for catching sunfish. The rod's length should be proportional to the size of the fish you expect to catch; shorter rods work well for panfish and small bass species while longer rods are necessary when targeting larger game fish.
Another thing to consider is how much space you will have to store your rod. A six-foot rod can be easily rolled up and stored in a small space, while eight or nine-foot rods are more difficult to stow away.
While fishing experience level can be an important factor for rod selection, beginners should not feel limited by the lack of experience. The best way to learn about different types of rod and tackle is simply to use them so it can be helpful for a beginner to try out as many rods as possible before making a purchase.
The following section provides basic information about the most common types of fishing rods used today. While there are thousands of choices available, those described below are the most commonly used worldwide.
Spin Rods are rods designed to be cast with spin-casting equipment, which includes a large spool that holds the line. The reel is attached to the rod using a simple metal or plastic attachment called an 'arbor' or simply 'spool cap'. Spin rods are typically six to seven feet in length and feature a medium/heavy to heavy power.
Spinning rods are generally considered the best choice for beginners because spool caps allow line to be cast more easily than other types of reels. It is also much easier to feel a strike when fishing with spinning tackle since the fish must bite the line before it can cause any problems.
Spinning rods are available in ultra-light, light, medium-light, medium and medium-heavy power ratings. The majority of both freshwater and saltwater species can be caught with spinning tackle; however the use of larger lures means that this type of rod is typically used when targeting gamefish like striped bass or bluefish.
Spinning rods work well for beginners because they are typically very durable and affordable. Price is a great indication of quality, but there are many inexpensive models that perform well and last surprisingly long; we actually carry several spinning rod options under $20! When selecting a spinning rod, look for moderate to good sensitivity (which means the rod will be able to detect subtle bites from fish), a secure line guide system and a durable construction with good finish.
Spinning rods are used by both beginners and experienced anglers alike because they can be used in almost any situation. If you only plan on purchasing one rod for fishing, make it a spinning rod!
Fly Rods are rods designed to cast artificial flies with a fly casting outfit. The line is attached to a large metal or ceramic 'ball' in the center of the back-end of the reel, which the angler uses to propel a line forward toward a target.
Fly rods can vary in length from less than four feet up to ten feet or more, although most rods are between six and eight feet. Fly rods are generally designated as ultra-light, light, medium light, medium or heavy/steel depending on the rod's power rating.
Fly fishing is a popular form of angling in both freshwater and saltwater environments because it allows an angler to catch almost any species using artificial bait. Anglers can choose from a wide variety of flies that imitate everything from bugs and shrimp to eels and baitfish.
The most popular types of artificial fly hooks are the 'parabolic bend' hook which works well for small lures, or the 'non-offset' hook which is ideal when using larger lures. Fly rods are typically available in ultra-light or ultra-heavy power ratings, although medium-light and medium power fly rods are becoming more popular.
