The first rule in buying a fishing rod is to understand that spending outrageous amounts of money on a rod does not guarantee that the rod you’re purchasing is good.  In fact, you can spend less than one hundred dollars and get a very high quality rod with a great warranty from a brand name company that will suit your purposes perfectly.

If you’re seeking that super special fishing rod to add to your growing collection, you’re not likely to be looking for a rod that is simply a backup to the one you normally use.  Let’s face it, if it’s more than a backup, you’re looking for something different not something that’s commonplace.  Drop-shooting finesse baits require a totally different rod than a rod that would be used for a pleasant, relaxing day of fishing with your children. Regardless of whether your idea of a relaxing day of fishing is fighting with a school of bluefish, trolling at sunset or working a heavy current for bass, you want to have the right rod.

Rod specifications are fortunately not a mystery. In fact, the facts about your rod are printed at the rod blank which is located near the handle of the rod.  This label will include information such as lure size, line weight and other information that will help you make a sound decision before you purchase a rod.  Bluefish require a heavier line – something in the 20-lb test range and medium sized bass fishing something much lighter – more in the 10-lb range.  Keeping these things in mind will help you find the perfect fishing rod.

Another consideration that you will want to review before purchasing a rod is the type of line you’ll be using. As mentioned previously, rod manufacturers include line weight on the sides, but these labels are specific to monofilament line. If you intend to use a braided line don’t forget that a standard 12-15 pound monofilament is equivalent to a 50-pound braided line and purchase your rod accordingly.  Don’t buy a rod rated for 50-lb line if you are planning on using a 50-lb braided line as a rod that will hold a 15-lb monofilament will serve the same purpose.

You also need to think about the weight of the lures you intend to cast with your new purchase, of course. The rod labeling will help enormously when you come to this part of the decision-making process. You will see, if the rod is rated for lure weights of 1/8 oz.–1/4 oz., then the rod will be lightweight and have a somewhat skinny diameter. If the rod is rated for lures of 3/4 oz.–1 3/4 oz., then the rod is probably heavier and much thicker in diameter. If you try to cast lures that weigh less than what is suggested, then your cast will probably not succeed. Lures heavier than what is suggested risk a broken line on your cast or, worse, a broken rod.

Another important consideration you will want to make is the length of the rod you purchase.  If you’re fishing onshore you’ll need a shorter rod – this helps cast especially in streams, where it’s easy to get between trees.  For river-shore fishing, you’ll need to cast longer distances and perhaps you’ll need a rod that is upwards of twelve feet.  Boat fishing requires a shorter rod – the shorter rods are easier to control and if you try to use something greater than eight feet, you could find yourself with trouble on your hands.

Rod manufacturers have made the process of purchasing a rod fairly simple as long as you understand what factors have to be considered before you purchase.   Great decisions start with being armed with the right information as they pertain to your needs. You can shop with confidence at your local fishing retailer or online if you understand before you get started exactly what your need are going to be.  This ensures that you will find the perfect rod regardless of whether it’s to add to your collection or to enjoy a day of fishing.

Choosing the correct rod is just as important as choosing the right reel. Some of the most popular reels are Shimano Spinning Reels and Daiwa Reel.