Are you searching for the perfect fishing rod?
Well then, you better know the different types of fishing rods before beginning the buying process. I have used all six types of fishing rods that we will mention here today and can assure you that each one is designed for a specific kind of fishing. If you want to know which rod to use and when then keep reading.
You’ll be able to catch any fish with the right rod and the proper technique. So let me explain the six different types of fishing rods that I have used over the years and what I suggest for how to deploy them. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the different types of fishing rods!
6 Different Types of Fishing Rods
- Spinning Rods
- Casting Rods
- Trolling Rods
- Surf Rods
- Fly Fishing Rods
- Ice Fishing Rods
Types of Fishing Rods Explained
Spinning Rods
Spinning rods are by far the most common and straightforward fishing rod to use, especially for beginners.
Spinning rods also have a wide range of applications and can be used for most types of fishing. Whether you are fishing for Bass, trolling for Spanish mackerel a couple of miles off the beach, or inshore saltwater fishing, a spinning rod will suit you well.
The main advantage of a spinning rod is that it can be used with various lures and bait types. A spinning rod can do everything from soft plastics, hard-bodied lures, live bait, and cut bait.
Spinning rods are also relatively inexpensive, which makes them an excellent option for those just getting into fishing.
Spinning rods are the way to go if you are looking for an all-around fishing rod that can be used in various situations.
Casting Rods
Casting rods are similar to spinning rods but are more durable and designed to pair with a baitcasting reel. However, if fishing with a young one or a beginner, a casting rod can also be paired with a spin cast reel while performing the same functions.
Casting rods are most popular among bass fishermen, as they can handle the strain put on them while pulling Bass out of thick vegetation. Casting rods also offer precise casting, allowing bass anglers to place their lures into tight windows.
While a casting rod paired with a baitcasting reel requires more experience, they should by no means be avoided by beginners. Just keep in mind there is a learning curve to mastering the baitcaster.
Trolling Rods
You guessed it! Trolling rods are for trolling. No surprise here, but one thing worth mentioning is that you can also troll using a casting rod or spinning rod. Also known as a conventional rod and reel, these combos are manufactured with strong backbones and tip strength they have to withstand the rigors of trolling.
Trolling rods are designed with more significant and sturdier guides. They are made to handle the heavy trolling lines that are being used as well as the big lures that are being used for fishing. The butt section of a trolling rod is also much longer to give anglers more leverage when battling big fish.
If you plan on trolling for pelagic fish such as tuna, mackerel, or marlin, then a trolling rod is a piece of essential equipment for your boat.
Surf Rods
Surf rods are designed for fishing from the shoreline, pier, jetty, or any other type of structure where long-distance casting is required. Surf rods are also built with enough strength to handle big waves and the fish that swim in them.
Surf rods are usually between 9 and 12 feet long and paired with a spinning reel. The longer the surf rod, the easier it is to cast long distances. However, the longer the rod, the more difficult it is to handle, so keep that in mind when choosing a surf rod.
For those fishing in the surf, a good quality surf rod will give you the confidence and ability to reel in your target fish.
Fly Fishing Rods
Fly rods are quite different from the other types of rods on this list as they are designed to cast much lighter lures or flies. For that reason, fly fishing rods are also much more delicate and smaller overall.
A fly fishing rod is also designed with a much faster action, which means they bend closer to the tip of the rod than other fishing rods. Quicker action is necessary to generate the high-speed casts required when fly fishing.
While fly fishing can be done with any rod, it is best to use a fly rod to get the most out of your fly fishing experience.
Ice Fishing Rods
Last but not least are ice fishing rods. As the name implies, ice fishing rods are used for fishing through holes in the ice. Ice rods are usually much shorter in length compared to other kinds of fishing rods, ranging from 24 inches to 36 inches.
An Ice fishing rod is also designed with a very sensitive tip, which is necessary for detecting even the lightest bites. The sensitivity is achieved by using more lightweight materials and smaller guides.
You can get away with using different rods while fishing from the ice, but to have the best chance at success, it is best to use an ice fishing rod.
Now that you know the different types of fishing rods let’s take this chance to mention the different kinds of materials that rods are manufactured with.
Fishing Rod Materials
In addition to the different types of fishing rods, there are other materials from which fishing rods can be made. The most common materials used to make fishing rods are graphite, fiberglass, and composite.
Graphite Fishing Rods
Graphite rods are the most popular type of rod on the market today. Graphite is a solid and lightweight material, which makes it ideal for fishing rods. Graphite rods are also susceptible so that anglers can feel even the lightest bites.
On the higher end of the price spectrum are graphite rods; usually, baitcasting and trolling rods are made from pure graphite.
Fiberglass Fishing Rods
Fiberglass fishing rods are not as popular as graphite rods but have their advantages. Fiberglass is challenging and durable material so that it can withstand much abuse. Fiberglass rods are also very affordable compared to graphite rods.
Fiberglass rods are usually less expensive compared to graphite rods.
Composite Rods
Composite fishing rods are made from a combination of materials, such as graphite and fiberglass. Composite rods offer the angler the best of both worlds, combining graphite’s sensitivity with fiberglass’s durability.
Now that you know about the different types of fishing rods and the materials they are made from, it’s time to answer some of the most common questions related to them.
Common Questions About Fishing Rods
What is the most common type of fishing rod?
The most common type of fishing rod is the spinning rod. Spinning rods are versatile and can be used for various kinds of fishing.
What is the best material for a fishing rod?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on what type of fishing you plan on doing. For example, if you plan on doing a lot of saltwater fishing, a graphite rod would be a good choice as it is resistant to corrosion.
What is a spinning rod used for?
A spinning rod is a versatile type of rod that can be used for a variety of different techniques of fishing, such as surf fishing, bottom fishing, trolling, sight casting, and more.
What is a baitcasting rod used for?
A baitcasting rod is primarily used for casting baits and lures. Baitcasting rods are also commonly used for trolling and bottom fishing.
Ready to buy a new rod? Check out my guide on the best rod and reel combos here.
