Light vs. Ultralight Rod For Trout

Light vs. Ultralight rod for trout

So you’re thinking about buying a new trout fishing rod?

You might be wondering if you should go with a light or ultralight rod. Both have pros and cons, but which is right for you?

In this article, we’ll look at the differences between light and ultralight rods so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for you. We’ll also give you tips on how to use them so you can start catching more Trout immediately.

Keep reading for a breakdown of a light vs. ultralight rod for Trout!

Pros of Fishing With a Light Rod

  • More Backbone
    • A light rod will handle a bigger trout more effectively when compared to an ultralight rod.
  • Longer Casting Distance
    • Using a light action over an ultralight will yield longer casts if you pair your light rod with the appropriate lure.
  • More Accurate Casts
    • Light rods are most often longer than ultralight rods, and with a longer rod comes increased accuracy when casting.
  • More Control During the Retrieve
    • Along with more control during a cast, also consider that you will have more control with a light rod during your retrieve.

Pros of Fishing With an Ultralight Rod

  • Great for Small Lures
    • If you’re using small lures, an ultralight rod is an excellent option because it allows you to fish smaller lures more effectively.
  • More Sensitive
    • Ultralight rods are much more sensitive than light rods. This means you’ll be able to feel even the smallest bites, so you can set the hook and catch more fish.
  • Use lighter line
    • Ultralight rods are designed to be used with lighter lines. This means you can use a smaller diameter line, which allows you to make longer casts and present your lure more naturally.

Our Top Picks For the Best Light Action Trout Rods

Our Top Picks For the Best Ultralight Trout Rods

For our complete list of the best trout rods, check out this page.

For our complete list of the best ultralight rods, check out this page.

When to use a Light Rod for Trout Fishing

If you’re targeting larger Trout, you’ll want to use a light rod. The increased backbone will help you land bigger fish, and the longer length will give you more accuracy when casting.

You should also use a light rod if fishing in areas with lots of structure. The extra control you have with a light rod will help you avoid snagging your line on objects in the water.

The video below is a good way to see trout fishing with an ultralight rod in action.

When to use an Ultralight Rod for Trout Fishing

If you’re targeting smaller Trout, an ultralight rod is a great choice. The increased sensitivity will help you feel even the lightest of bites, so you can set the hook and catch more fish.

You should also use an ultralight rod, fishing in open water with little to no structure. With lighter lines, your casts will be less accurate, so you want to allow yourself some wiggle room and not risk casting over top of branches or other obstacles that may be present.

Cost – Light vs. Ultralight Rod For Trout

What about the cost of a light vs. ultralight trout rod? Good question!

The cost of any rod will depend on the manufacturer, size, and quality.

That said, you will want to go for a more high-end rod when buying an ultralight rod over a light rod. An ultralight rod lacks the strength and backbone of light action rods, so that the quality will be more noticeable.

From my experience, you can get away with a less expensive light rod, but that is not so much the case for ultralights.

FAQ’s

What size rod is best for trout fishing?

The size of the rod you need will depend on the type of trout fishing you plan on doing.

If you’re targeting smaller Trout, an ultralight rod in the 5’6″ to 6’0″ range will do the trick.

If you’re targeting larger Trout, you’ll want to go with a light action rod in the 6’6″ to 7’0″ range.

What line should I use with a light or ultralight rod?

You will want to use a lighter line with an ultralight rod and a heavier line with a light action rod.

For ultralight rods, a 2-6 lb test line is ideal. A 6-10 lb test line will work best for light action rods.

Which baits and lures pair well with an ultralight rod?

Smaller baits and lures work best with ultralight rods. This includes smaller hard baits, soft plastics, and jigs.

Conclusion

Light vs. Ultralight rod for trout 2

So, which is better? A light or an ultralight rod for trout fishing?

It depends on the type of trout fishing you plan on doing.

If you’re targeting smaller Trout, then an ultralight rod is the way. The increased sensitivity will help you feel even the lightest of bites, so you can set the hook and catch more fish.

If you’re targeting larger Trout, a light action rod is better. The extra backbone will help you land bigger fish, and the longer length will give you more accuracy when casting.

For more pages on trout fishing, check out the topics below:

Captain Tyler Brady

Captain Tyler Brady

Hi, I'm Captain Tyler Brady, founder of A Fellow Fisherman. Thank you for reading this post and visiting my site. I strive to provide the best information when it comes to fishing, whether it is myself or A Fellow Fisherman that is part of my team. Now stop reading and GO fishing!

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