How BIG is BIG ENOUGH for your rod? This depends on what fishing rods we are talking about. If you talk to fly fishermen, Spey rod fishermen, bass fishermen, or spin fishermen, “cane polers”, or backpackers, ideal size will vary.
First, Fishing rods are levers. According to Archimedes, the Greek philosopher, “if you have a big enough lever you could lift the world!” Fishing rods are simple tools. The bigger the job, the bigger the tool needed.
Spin rods are normally 5-9 feet long. They have actions that vary in flexibility, and sensitivity. Ultra-lights are the most sensitive. You can fight bigger fish with bigger rods.
Fly rods are 6-12 feet long. Their sensitivity is measured in “weights”. Trout fishermen generally prefer 5 weight rods that are 9 feet long. Years ago a 7 weight 71/2-foot rod was the rod of choice. Salt water fly guys like the 10 weights at 12 feet. You can fly fish with lighter 2,3, and 4 weight rods but the casting stroke must be faster, and your range and power will decline. Longer rods supply more power and strength.
SPEY rods start at 12 feet and go up to 16 feet in length. This rod has it roots with salmon fishermen and have become popular with trout fishermen as well. It will take two hands to work this long rod.
Bass Casting Rods of 6-8 foot tend to be stiffer and are loaded with heavier braided lines. Bass tend to prefer heavier big baits and live near thick structure like grass beds and snags. Strong, stiffer rods are better for dragging big fish out of their cover.
Cane poles are a simple way to fish. As children, we probably started with a 10-foot bamboo or willow rod. The simplicity of this gear was perfect for rookies. If it broke, you cut a new one. Bobbers would help swing out the bait and show the bites. A slip bobber makes this technique even more effective today.
No matter how big your rod is, the key is to use it. Rod choice will ultimately be measured by the size of the fish you catch!
Fish hard, fish harder!
Montana Grant
For more Montana Grant, visit his blog at www.montanagrantfishing.com.
