How to Buy: Freshwater Reels, Freshwater Rods |
How To Buy Freshwater Reels Finding a good reel starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you are after. You then have a choice of several styles of reels to get the job done. Types There are basically three types of reels to consider, each with advantages to weigh: baitcasting, spinning and spincasting. Baitcasting reels Baitcasting reels work with the weight of the bait or lure as it pulls on the line and turns the spool to release more line. The heavier the lure, the longer the cast. With practice, this style of reel also will allow you to cast more accurately These are typically preferred by more experienced anglers, especially when using heavier lures and lines designed for bigger fish Most baitcasting reels now incorporate a drag system designed to adjust the resistance--or drag--on the spool to control how much resistance is needed to pull the right amount of line off the spool. Star drags or a simple drag knob is common. You can also select a baitcasting reel for your style of fishing Offshore reels are designed to fight large fish from a boat Trolling reels allow you to drag live bait or a lure as you troll in a boat Casting reels give you the benefit of precision casts These even come in casting styles, with pitching to cast overhead or sidearm and flipping to cast underhand in tight situations such as underneath tree branches Spinning reels Spinning reels are open-faced Your line is released from a stationary spool by flipping a bail wire, a piece of metal wire across the spool called a bail This stationary spool keeps the line in place and helps prevent snarls and tangled line The weight of your lure or bait propels the line forward Spinning reels can handle smaller bait but today's spinning reels are designed for light to heavier fish You also need to ensure that your reel is a left- or right-hand retrieve, or can be adapted for either hand Spinning reels use an anti-reverse, a simple mechanism you set by letting go of the bail wire after casting. This keeps your line from spooling off once you get a strike from a fish. The anti-reverse lock is usually a lever mounted on the gear housing cover It prevents the reel handle from turning in reverse when you hook a fish and it runs or when you are trolling Automatic anti-reverse requires no manual settings Spincasting reels Spincasting reels are closed-faced, and combine spinning and casting. The spool remains stationary until you use a thumb button to cast. When you release the button, your bait or lure propel your line. The ease of spincasting reels make them a good choice for beginners both for the in ease of casting and their reliability, with few bells and whistles that cause problems while your fishing The closed face does limit line capacity, but you can still find models that will handle light to medium fish Materials/Construction Spools The spool is the part of the reel that holds the line It is a detachable component of the reel Spools are made of either graphite or aluminum Graphite spools are designed to be lighter than aluminum spools Aluminum spools generally cost more and some consider aluminum to be more durable Either material is designed to resist corrosion from the water Frames The frame is what gives a real its shape Frames can also be either made of graphite or aluminum Once again, this is a question of weight and the price you are willing to pay for a reel Line capacity Line capacity is a key consideration in selecting a reel Reels can handle as little as 15 yards to as much as 900 yards The amount of line you'll need depends on your fishing. For example, fishing in your favorite pond or park will probably require only minimal line capacity. If you plan on fishing in the Great Lakes, though, you may need more line capacity to handle the water's depth and the type of fish that may run with your line. Gear ratio Gear ratios tells you how quickly a reel will retrieve line per revolution of your reel's crank As a guide, lower ratios provide more power for bringing fish from deeper depths, while higher gear rations benefit when pulling fish from closer to the surface Ball bearings Ball bearings are used to help reels work more smoothly by supporting the moving parts Generally speaking, the more ball bearings, the smoother the reel works, especially under pressure As more ball bearings are added to a reel, the cost goes up How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start because manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. They usually even put the right line on the reel for you. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. How To Buy Saltwater Reels Finding a reel to go saltwater fishing starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you're after. You then have a choice of several styles of reels to get the job done. Types There are basically two types of reels to consider, each with advantages to weigh: baitcasting and spinning. Baitcasting reels Baitcasting reels are typically preferred by more experienced anglers, especially when using heavier lures and lines designed for bigger fish The reel works with the weight of the bait or lure as it pulls on the line and turns the spool to release more line. The heavier the lure, the longer the cast. With practice, this style of reel also will allow you to cast more accurately Many fishermen also prefer baitcasting for fighting bigger, stronger fish over an extended period, especially big game fish in saltwater The line retrieves directly on the spool making the baitcasting reel equal to the challenge Baitcasting reels are offered in one-piece designs, which lessens the corrosive effects of saltwater Most baitcasting reels now incorporate a drag system designed to adjust the resistance--or drag--on the spool to control how much resistance is needed to pull the right amount of line off the spool You can also select a baitcasting reel for your particular style of fishing Offshore reels are designed to fight large fish from a boat Trolling reels allow you to drag live bait or a lure as you troll in a boat Jigging reels allow you to cast a lure near the bottom and then pull the lure in an up and down motions Casting reels give you the benefit of precision casts Bottom reels, as their name sounds, allow you to fish from stationary boats and go down deep Spinning reels Spinning reels are open-faced Your line is released from a stationary spool by flipping a bail wire, a piece of metal wire across the spool called a bail This stationary spool keeps the line in place and helps prevent snarls and tangles The weight of your lure or bait propels the line forward Spinning reels can handle smaller baits but today's spinning reels are designed for light fishing to heavier fish You also need to ensure that your reel is a left- or right-hand retrieve, or can be adapted for either hand Spinning reels use an anti-reverse, a simple mechanism you set by letting go of the bail wire after casting. This keeps your line from spooling off once you get a strike from a fish. In saltwater spinning reels, you may prefer a skirted spool The skirted spool increases line capacity, allows longer casts and reduces tangles It also protects the reel's inside workings from the saltwater and moisture Materials/Construction There are a number of options available in saltwater fishing reels. Spools The spool is the part of the reel that holds the line It is a detachable component of the reel Spools are made of either graphite or aluminum Graphite spools are designed to be lighter than aluminum spools Aluminum spools generally cost more and some consider aluminum to be more durable; it's worthwhile to pay for anodized or machined bronze aluminum to fend off the corrosive effects of saltwater and moisture Either material is designed to resist corrosion from the water Frames The frame is what gives the reel its shape Frames can also be either made of graphite or aluminum Once again, this is a question of weight and the price you are willing to pay for a reel Line capacity Line capacity is a key consideration in selecting a reel Some reels can handle as much as 900 yards The amount of line you'll need depends on your type of fishing Gear ratio Gear ratio tells you how quickly a reel will retrieve line per revolution of your reel's crank Lower ratios provide more power for bringing fish from deeper depths, while higher gear rations benefit when pulling fish from closer to the surface Ball bearings Ball bearings are used to help reels work more smoothly by supporting the moving parts Generally speaking, the more ball bearings, the smoother the reel works, especially under pressure As more ball bearings are added to a reel, the cost goes up Level winds A level wind makes it so that when you reel in your line it is distributed evenly over the spool Level winds found on baitcasting reels will evenly guide the line back on to the spool after casting How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start. Manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. How to Choose a Fly Rod The heart of any well-balanced fly fishing outfit is the fly rod. Part science, part poetry, a fly rod serves 3 key duties: With every cast, it transfers the energy from your arm and wrist to the fly line, which propels your leader and fly toward the intended target. Once your line, leader and fly are on the water, it allows you to reposition or "mend" the line to achieve a natural, drag-free presentation. When you hook a fish (and you eventually will hook fish!), it helps you play the fish without breaking your leader. To make the most of your time on the water, your rod should match the type of fishing you'll be doing. With the right rod, you'll make better presentations, catch more fish and ultimately have more fun. Selecting a rod, especially if you're new to the sport, can be a dizzying endeavor. To help you through the process, CyberFishing.comhas put together the following 4-step guide. Step 1: Choose the Appropriate Line Weight Every fly rod is designed to cast a specific line weight, or size, that the rod manufacturer has determined to be the best match for the power and stiffness of that particular rod. For example, a "6-weight rod" is designed to cast a 6-weight fly line. You'll frequently see rods described like this: #6/9'.In this particular instance, you're looking at a 6-weight, 9-foot rod. Selecting the proper line weight should be based on the: Species of fish you'll be pursuing Type of water you'll be fishing Size of flies you'll be using. Line weights range from 1 to 15. Generally speaking, the lower line weights are for smaller flies and fish, while the higher line weights are for heavier flies and fish. Here's a brief rundown: 1- to 3- weight: For making delicate presentations with small dry flies and nymphs. Most frequently used when fishing for trout or panfish on small to moderate-sized waters. 4- to 6- weight: The bread-and-butter weights of trout fishing. Also suitable for panfish and small bass. A 4-weight excels in situations that call for delicacy and finesse, while a 6-weight is at its best on big waters and/or in windy conditions. In between these two is the 5-weight, probably the single most versatile weight for trout anglingfrom finesse fishing on spring creeks to streamer fishing on broad-shouldered rivers. 7- to 8- weight: A 7-weight will give you the punch you need to tackle smallmouth bass or summer steelhead, as well as hefty trout on expansive, wind-blown rivers and reservoirs. When casting bonefish flies or bulky bass bugs, you can't go wrong with an 8-weight; it's also a fine option for steelhead, redfish, snook or light salmon fishing. 9- to 10- weight: Well-suited to throwing large flies for salmon and pike. Also good for saltwater species such as striped bass and permit. 11-weight and up: The heavyweight fly lines. Designed to handle bluewater brawlers like tarpon, tuna and billfish. Step 2: Determine the Best Rod Length Less than 8': Rods in this range fall into the "short" category. Short rods excel when fishing waters with limited space, such as narrow streams overhung with shoreline trees and tiny ponds lined with brush. 8' - 9': The most popular lengths for trout and bass. Their added length offers greater casting range and enables better line control and mending. 9' and longer: Best suited to fishing big, open watersbonefish flats, saltwater bays, burly salmon riverswhere long casts and/or optimal line management are an integral part of the game. If you plan to fish for bass or trout from a float tube, you'll also want to consider a rod in this range, ideally a 9- or 10-footer. Step 3: Select the "Action" That Best Suits You For this step, you need to consider your casting style and fishing plans. Fly rods are made of graphite, fiberglass or bamboo. Depending on the design and the material used, rods flex at differing placesand to differing degreesalong the length of the rod. "Action" describes the way a rod flexes under stress, be it from your casting stroke or the tug of a fish. Fast-action rods flex in the upper third of the rod. They allow seasoned anglers to make crisp, powerful castsa real boon in windy conditions and on large waters. This is the action of choice for fly fishers who like to employ quick, tight casting strokes with minimal rod-angle change. Medium- or moderate-action rods flex in the upper half of the rod and combine traits of both fast and slow action rods. As such, they provide outstanding all-around performance over a wide range of conditions and casting styles. Slow-action rods flex progressively through the entire length of the blank. They excel at making close-range casts and ultra-delicate presentations. Because their soft action readily absorbs shock, they provide maximum protection when using very fine tippets. Step 4: Decide How Many "Pieces" You Want A 2-piece design is the most common fly rod configuration. However, if you intend to travel with your rodbe it on an airplane or a backcountry trailconsider the benefits of a travel rod. Many of the fly rods REI carries are available in travel versions consisting of 3, 4 or 5 pieces. A standard 9' rod consists of 2 pieces, approximately 4'6" each. The same model in a 5-piece travel version breaks down to a package less than 2 feet longwhich makes it considerably more portable and packable. Quick Tips For new fly fishers, buying a fly rod and reel outfit is a good way to go, because you're assured of getting a well-balanced setup. If you're looking for a solid, all-purpose trout rod, it's hard to go wrong with a 5- or 6-weight rod, 8' to 9' long, in a medium to medium-fast action. How To Buy Freshwater Rods Finding a good fishing rod starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you are after. You then have a choice of several styles of rods to get the job done. Types There are two main types of rods--baitcasting and spinning. The type of rod you buy depends as much on the reel you buy as the type of fishing that you plan to do. Baitcasting rods The reel and line are seated on top of the rod A trigger grip lets you hold the rod securely while releasing thethumb bar/line release Spincasting reels generally match up best with baitcasting and casting rods because they sit on top of the rod are are designed to fit this way Spinning rods Spinning rods use a spinning or spincasting reel. These rods have three main differences from casting rods. The reel hangs from the bottom of the reel seat, and the line guides are on the bottom as well The handle length is balanced against the rod's length Triggers are not used on spinning rods Length and weight This depends of the type of fish that you want to catch Typically, the bigger the fish, the longer the cast so the longer the rod Lure and line weight The heavier the lure and line, the longer and heavier the pole that you should buy Action Action describes the way a rod is designed to perform when casting or reeling in a fish It also relates to the lure or bait you need and the strength of the reel that should be used Most manufacturers use terms such as ultra-light, light, medium-heavy or heavy The smaller the fish, the lighter the action that you'll need; the heavier the fish, the heavier the action that you should buy Materials/Construction Most rods today are made from either graphite or fiberglass, or a composition of these two materials. Graphite Graphite has been refined over the years to provide lighter, more flexible rods that give you "sensitivity," a big plus in feeling when a fish begins to nibble on your bait This material is also strong enough to land a larger fish Fiberglass Fiberglass provides more durability than graphite but sacrifices some sensitivity and is heavier than graphite Composites New composite rods give you the best of both graphite and fiberglass--the durability of fiberglass combined with the lightweight, power and sensitivity of graphite Grips Pistol grip A pistol grip is the shortest type of grip It is contored to the shape of your hand with a hook for your index finger This hook helps in casting more accurately Triggerstick A longer triggerstick is used for two-handed, longer casts Materials Materials come in two general styles - cork or EVA foam Cork is a traditional material that has a good feel and solid grip EVA foam offers more durability because it is more resistant to temperature changes and water wear Guides Line guides can be made of plastic, metal or ceramic, listed from least to best quality. These circles are positioned to the rod's shaft to control fishing line. In casting rods, line guides are positioned on top of the rod. They are smaller to reduce the play in the line and allow for easier casting and quicker retrieve. Spinning rods place the line guides on the rod's bottom. These guides get larger toward the base of the rod. The number of line guides is determined by the rod's length How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start because manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. They usually even put the right line on the reel for you. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. How To Buy Saltwater Rods Finding a rod to go saltwater fishing starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you're after. You then have a choice of several styles of rods to get the job done. Types There are two main types of rods--baitcasting and spinning. The type of rod you buy depends as much on the reel you buy as the type of fishing that you plan to do. Baitcasting rods Baitcasting rods take a baitcasting reel The reel and line are seated on top of the rod A trigger grip, a grip that looks simimlar to a trigger on a gun, lets you hold the rod securely while releasing the thumb bar/line release Spinning rods Spinning rods use a spinning wheel These rods have three main differences from casting rods: The reel hangs from the bottom of the reel seat, and the line guides are on the bottom as well The handle length is balanced against the rod's length Triggers are not used on spinning rods Length & weight Length and weight depend of the type of fish that you want to catch and your fishing style. Typically, the bigger the fish, the longer the cast so the longer the rod. Bottom-fishing Bottom-fishing rods run about 10 feet long and normally take 6- to 30-pound test line These rods also usually take baitcasting reels Boat Boat rods are smaller--5 1/2 to 6 feet--but they handle 50-130-pound test lines These also usually are for baitcasting reels Surfcasting Surfcasting rods come in lengths from 6 to 15 feet The length you need depends on how far you want to cast and what weight of lure you may be casting A 10-foot surfcasting rod will allow you to throw a 2- to 4-ounce lure 200 feet easily These rods work mainly with spinning reels Action Action basically describes the way a rod is designed to perform when casting or reeling in a fish It also relates to the lure or bait you need and the strength of the reel that should be used The smaller the fish, the lighter the action that you'll need; the heavier the fish, the heavier the action that you should buy Most manufacturers use terms such as ultra-light, light, medium-heavy or heavy Lure/Line weight Lure and line weight also play into rod selection. The heavier these are, the longer and heavier the pole that you should buy. Materials/Construction Most rods today are made from either graphite or fiberglass, or a composition of these two materials. Graphite Graphite has been refined over the years to provide lighter, more flexible rods that give you "sensitivity," a big plus in feeling when a fish begins to nibble on your bait Fiberglass Fiberglass provides more durability than graphite but sacrifices some sensitivity and is heavier than graphite Composites Composites give you the best of both graphite and fiberglass-- the durability of fiberglass combined with the lightweight, power and sensitivity of graphite Grips Pistol grip A pistol grip is the shortest type of grip It is contoured to the shape of your hand with a hook for your index finger This hook helps in casting more accurately Triggerstick A longer triggerstick is used for two-handed, longer casts Materials Materials come in two general styles - cork or EVA foam Cork is a traditional material that has a good feel and solid grip EVA foam offers more durability because it is more resistant to temperature changes and water wear Guides Line guides can be made of plastic, metal or ceramic, listed from least to best quality. These circles are positioned to the rod's shaft to control fishing line. In casting rods, line guides are positioned on top of the rod. They are smaller to reduce the play in the line and allow for easier casting and quicker retrieve. Spinning rods place the line guides on the rod's bottom. These guides get larger toward the base of the rod. The number of line guides is determined by the rod's length as well as by the quality of the rod How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start. Manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. |
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Buying Guides for Rods and Reels Saltwater & Fresh |
How To Buy Freshwater Reels Finding a good reel starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you are after. You then have a choice of several styles of reels to get the job done. Types There are basically three types of reels to consider, each with advantages to weigh: baitcasting, spinning and spincasting. Baitcasting reels Baitcasting reels work with the weight of the bait or lure as it pulls on the line and turns the spool to release more line. The heavier the lure, the longer the cast. With practice, this style of reel also will allow you to cast more accurately These are typically preferred by more experienced anglers, especially when using heavier lures and lines designed for bigger fish Most baitcasting reels now incorporate a drag system designed to adjust the resistance--or drag--on the spool to control how much resistance is needed to pull the right amount of line off the spool. Star drags or a simple drag knob is common. You can also select a baitcasting reel for your style of fishing Offshore reels are designed to fight large fish from a boat Trolling reels allow you to drag live bait or a lure as you troll in a boat Casting reels give you the benefit of precision casts These even come in casting styles, with pitching to cast overhead or sidearm and flipping to cast underhand in tight situations such as underneath tree branches Spinning reels Spinning reels are open-faced Your line is released from a stationary spool by flipping a bail wire, a piece of metal wire across the spool called a bail This stationary spool keeps the line in place and helps prevent snarls and tangled line The weight of your lure or bait propels the line forward Spinning reels can handle smaller bait but today's spinning reels are designed for light to heavier fish You also need to ensure that your reel is a left- or right-hand retrieve, or can be adapted for either hand Spinning reels use an anti-reverse, a simple mechanism you set by letting go of the bail wire after casting. This keeps your line from spooling off once you get a strike from a fish. The anti-reverse lock is usually a lever mounted on the gear housing cover It prevents the reel handle from turning in reverse when you hook a fish and it runs or when you are trolling Automatic anti-reverse requires no manual settings Spincasting reels Spincasting reels are closed-faced, and combine spinning and casting. The spool remains stationary until you use a thumb button to cast. When you release the button, your bait or lure propel your line. The ease of spincasting reels make them a good choice for beginners both for the in ease of casting and their reliability, with few bells and whistles that cause problems while your fishing The closed face does limit line capacity, but you can still find models that will handle light to medium fish Materials/Construction Spools The spool is the part of the reel that holds the line It is a detachable component of the reel Spools are made of either graphite or aluminum Graphite spools are designed to be lighter than aluminum spools Aluminum spools generally cost more and some consider aluminum to be more durable Either material is designed to resist corrosion from the water Frames The frame is what gives a real its shape Frames can also be either made of graphite or aluminum Once again, this is a question of weight and the price you are willing to pay for a reel Line capacity Line capacity is a key consideration in selecting a reel Reels can handle as little as 15 yards to as much as 900 yards The amount of line you'll need depends on your fishing. For example, fishing in your favorite pond or park will probably require only minimal line capacity. If you plan on fishing in the Great Lakes, though, you may need more line capacity to handle the water's depth and the type of fish that may run with your line. Gear ratio Gear ratios tells you how quickly a reel will retrieve line per revolution of your reel's crank As a guide, lower ratios provide more power for bringing fish from deeper depths, while higher gear rations benefit when pulling fish from closer to the surface Ball bearings Ball bearings are used to help reels work more smoothly by supporting the moving parts Generally speaking, the more ball bearings, the smoother the reel works, especially under pressure As more ball bearings are added to a reel, the cost goes up How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start because manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. They usually even put the right line on the reel for you. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. How To Buy Saltwater Reels Finding a reel to go saltwater fishing starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you're after. You then have a choice of several styles of reels to get the job done. Types There are basically two types of reels to consider, each with advantages to weigh: baitcasting and spinning. Baitcasting reels Baitcasting reels are typically preferred by more experienced anglers, especially when using heavier lures and lines designed for bigger fish The reel works with the weight of the bait or lure as it pulls on the line and turns the spool to release more line. The heavier the lure, the longer the cast. With practice, this style of reel also will allow you to cast more accurately Many fishermen also prefer baitcasting for fighting bigger, stronger fish over an extended period, especially big game fish in saltwater The line retrieves directly on the spool making the baitcasting reel equal to the challenge Baitcasting reels are offered in one-piece designs, which lessens the corrosive effects of saltwater Most baitcasting reels now incorporate a drag system designed to adjust the resistance--or drag--on the spool to control how much resistance is needed to pull the right amount of line off the spool You can also select a baitcasting reel for your particular style of fishing Offshore reels are designed to fight large fish from a boat Trolling reels allow you to drag live bait or a lure as you troll in a boat Jigging reels allow you to cast a lure near the bottom and then pull the lure in an up and down motions Casting reels give you the benefit of precision casts Bottom reels, as their name sounds, allow you to fish from stationary boats and go down deep Spinning reels Spinning reels are open-faced Your line is released from a stationary spool by flipping a bail wire, a piece of metal wire across the spool called a bail This stationary spool keeps the line in place and helps prevent snarls and tangles The weight of your lure or bait propels the line forward Spinning reels can handle smaller baits but today's spinning reels are designed for light fishing to heavier fish You also need to ensure that your reel is a left- or right-hand retrieve, or can be adapted for either hand Spinning reels use an anti-reverse, a simple mechanism you set by letting go of the bail wire after casting. This keeps your line from spooling off once you get a strike from a fish. In saltwater spinning reels, you may prefer a skirted spool The skirted spool increases line capacity, allows longer casts and reduces tangles It also protects the reel's inside workings from the saltwater and moisture Materials/Construction There are a number of options available in saltwater fishing reels. Spools The spool is the part of the reel that holds the line It is a detachable component of the reel Spools are made of either graphite or aluminum Graphite spools are designed to be lighter than aluminum spools Aluminum spools generally cost more and some consider aluminum to be more durable; it's worthwhile to pay for anodized or machined bronze aluminum to fend off the corrosive effects of saltwater and moisture Either material is designed to resist corrosion from the water Frames The frame is what gives the reel its shape Frames can also be either made of graphite or aluminum Once again, this is a question of weight and the price you are willing to pay for a reel Line capacity Line capacity is a key consideration in selecting a reel Some reels can handle as much as 900 yards The amount of line you'll need depends on your type of fishing Gear ratio Gear ratio tells you how quickly a reel will retrieve line per revolution of your reel's crank Lower ratios provide more power for bringing fish from deeper depths, while higher gear rations benefit when pulling fish from closer to the surface Ball bearings Ball bearings are used to help reels work more smoothly by supporting the moving parts Generally speaking, the more ball bearings, the smoother the reel works, especially under pressure As more ball bearings are added to a reel, the cost goes up Level winds A level wind makes it so that when you reel in your line it is distributed evenly over the spool Level winds found on baitcasting reels will evenly guide the line back on to the spool after casting How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start. Manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. How to Choose a Fly Rod The heart of any well-balanced fly fishing outfit is the fly rod. Part science, part poetry, a fly rod serves 3 key duties: With every cast, it transfers the energy from your arm and wrist to the fly line, which propels your leader and fly toward the intended target. Once your line, leader and fly are on the water, it allows you to reposition or "mend" the line to achieve a natural, drag-free presentation. When you hook a fish (and you eventually will hook fish!), it helps you play the fish without breaking your leader. To make the most of your time on the water, your rod should match the type of fishing you'll be doing. With the right rod, you'll make better presentations, catch more fish and ultimately have more fun. Selecting a rod, especially if you're new to the sport, can be a dizzying endeavor. To help you through the process, CyberFishing.comhas put together the following 4-step guide. Step 1: Choose the Appropriate Line Weight Every fly rod is designed to cast a specific line weight, or size, that the rod manufacturer has determined to be the best match for the power and stiffness of that particular rod. For example, a "6-weight rod" is designed to cast a 6-weight fly line. You'll frequently see rods described like this: #6/9'.In this particular instance, you're looking at a 6-weight, 9-foot rod. Selecting the proper line weight should be based on the: Species of fish you'll be pursuing Type of water you'll be fishing Size of flies you'll be using. Line weights range from 1 to 15. Generally speaking, the lower line weights are for smaller flies and fish, while the higher line weights are for heavier flies and fish. Here's a brief rundown: 1- to 3- weight: For making delicate presentations with small dry flies and nymphs. Most frequently used when fishing for trout or panfish on small to moderate-sized waters. 4- to 6- weight: The bread-and-butter weights of trout fishing. Also suitable for panfish and small bass. A 4-weight excels in situations that call for delicacy and finesse, while a 6-weight is at its best on big waters and/or in windy conditions. In between these two is the 5-weight, probably the single most versatile weight for trout anglingfrom finesse fishing on spring creeks to streamer fishing on broad-shouldered rivers. 7- to 8- weight: A 7-weight will give you the punch you need to tackle smallmouth bass or summer steelhead, as well as hefty trout on expansive, wind-blown rivers and reservoirs. When casting bonefish flies or bulky bass bugs, you can't go wrong with an 8-weight; it's also a fine option for steelhead, redfish, snook or light salmon fishing. 9- to 10- weight: Well-suited to throwing large flies for salmon and pike. Also good for saltwater species such as striped bass and permit. 11-weight and up: The heavyweight fly lines. Designed to handle bluewater brawlers like tarpon, tuna and billfish. Step 2: Determine the Best Rod Length Less than 8': Rods in this range fall into the "short" category. Short rods excel when fishing waters with limited space, such as narrow streams overhung with shoreline trees and tiny ponds lined with brush. 8' - 9': The most popular lengths for trout and bass. Their added length offers greater casting range and enables better line control and mending. 9' and longer: Best suited to fishing big, open watersbonefish flats, saltwater bays, burly salmon riverswhere long casts and/or optimal line management are an integral part of the game. If you plan to fish for bass or trout from a float tube, you'll also want to consider a rod in this range, ideally a 9- or 10-footer. Step 3: Select the "Action" That Best Suits You For this step, you need to consider your casting style and fishing plans. Fly rods are made of graphite, fiberglass or bamboo. Depending on the design and the material used, rods flex at differing placesand to differing degreesalong the length of the rod. "Action" describes the way a rod flexes under stress, be it from your casting stroke or the tug of a fish. Fast-action rods flex in the upper third of the rod. They allow seasoned anglers to make crisp, powerful castsa real boon in windy conditions and on large waters. This is the action of choice for fly fishers who like to employ quick, tight casting strokes with minimal rod-angle change. Medium- or moderate-action rods flex in the upper half of the rod and combine traits of both fast and slow action rods. As such, they provide outstanding all-around performance over a wide range of conditions and casting styles. Slow-action rods flex progressively through the entire length of the blank. They excel at making close-range casts and ultra-delicate presentations. Because their soft action readily absorbs shock, they provide maximum protection when using very fine tippets. Step 4: Decide How Many "Pieces" You Want A 2-piece design is the most common fly rod configuration. However, if you intend to travel with your rodbe it on an airplane or a backcountry trailconsider the benefits of a travel rod. Many of the fly rods REI carries are available in travel versions consisting of 3, 4 or 5 pieces. A standard 9' rod consists of 2 pieces, approximately 4'6" each. The same model in a 5-piece travel version breaks down to a package less than 2 feet longwhich makes it considerably more portable and packable. Quick Tips For new fly fishers, buying a fly rod and reel outfit is a good way to go, because you're assured of getting a well-balanced setup. If you're looking for a solid, all-purpose trout rod, it's hard to go wrong with a 5- or 6-weight rod, 8' to 9' long, in a medium to medium-fast action. How To Buy Freshwater Rods Finding a good fishing rod starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you are after. You then have a choice of several styles of rods to get the job done. Types There are two main types of rods--baitcasting and spinning. The type of rod you buy depends as much on the reel you buy as the type of fishing that you plan to do. Baitcasting rods The reel and line are seated on top of the rod A trigger grip lets you hold the rod securely while releasing thethumb bar/line release Spincasting reels generally match up best with baitcasting and casting rods because they sit on top of the rod are are designed to fit this way Spinning rods Spinning rods use a spinning or spincasting reel. These rods have three main differences from casting rods. The reel hangs from the bottom of the reel seat, and the line guides are on the bottom as well The handle length is balanced against the rod's length Triggers are not used on spinning rods Length and weight This depends of the type of fish that you want to catch Typically, the bigger the fish, the longer the cast so the longer the rod Lure and line weight The heavier the lure and line, the longer and heavier the pole that you should buy Action Action describes the way a rod is designed to perform when casting or reeling in a fish It also relates to the lure or bait you need and the strength of the reel that should be used Most manufacturers use terms such as ultra-light, light, medium-heavy or heavy The smaller the fish, the lighter the action that you'll need; the heavier the fish, the heavier the action that you should buy Materials/Construction Most rods today are made from either graphite or fiberglass, or a composition of these two materials. Graphite Graphite has been refined over the years to provide lighter, more flexible rods that give you "sensitivity," a big plus in feeling when a fish begins to nibble on your bait This material is also strong enough to land a larger fish Fiberglass Fiberglass provides more durability than graphite but sacrifices some sensitivity and is heavier than graphite Composites New composite rods give you the best of both graphite and fiberglass--the durability of fiberglass combined with the lightweight, power and sensitivity of graphite Grips Pistol grip A pistol grip is the shortest type of grip It is contored to the shape of your hand with a hook for your index finger This hook helps in casting more accurately Triggerstick A longer triggerstick is used for two-handed, longer casts Materials Materials come in two general styles - cork or EVA foam Cork is a traditional material that has a good feel and solid grip EVA foam offers more durability because it is more resistant to temperature changes and water wear Guides Line guides can be made of plastic, metal or ceramic, listed from least to best quality. These circles are positioned to the rod's shaft to control fishing line. In casting rods, line guides are positioned on top of the rod. They are smaller to reduce the play in the line and allow for easier casting and quicker retrieve. Spinning rods place the line guides on the rod's bottom. These guides get larger toward the base of the rod. The number of line guides is determined by the rod's length How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start because manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. They usually even put the right line on the reel for you. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. How To Buy Saltwater Rods Finding a rod to go saltwater fishing starts with three basic considerations: your experience, your preferred way of fishing and the type of fish you're after. You then have a choice of several styles of rods to get the job done. Types There are two main types of rods--baitcasting and spinning. The type of rod you buy depends as much on the reel you buy as the type of fishing that you plan to do. Baitcasting rods Baitcasting rods take a baitcasting reel The reel and line are seated on top of the rod A trigger grip, a grip that looks simimlar to a trigger on a gun, lets you hold the rod securely while releasing the thumb bar/line release Spinning rods Spinning rods use a spinning wheel These rods have three main differences from casting rods: The reel hangs from the bottom of the reel seat, and the line guides are on the bottom as well The handle length is balanced against the rod's length Triggers are not used on spinning rods Length & weight Length and weight depend of the type of fish that you want to catch and your fishing style. Typically, the bigger the fish, the longer the cast so the longer the rod. Bottom-fishing Bottom-fishing rods run about 10 feet long and normally take 6- to 30-pound test line These rods also usually take baitcasting reels Boat Boat rods are smaller--5 1/2 to 6 feet--but they handle 50-130-pound test lines These also usually are for baitcasting reels Surfcasting Surfcasting rods come in lengths from 6 to 15 feet The length you need depends on how far you want to cast and what weight of lure you may be casting A 10-foot surfcasting rod will allow you to throw a 2- to 4-ounce lure 200 feet easily These rods work mainly with spinning reels Action Action basically describes the way a rod is designed to perform when casting or reeling in a fish It also relates to the lure or bait you need and the strength of the reel that should be used The smaller the fish, the lighter the action that you'll need; the heavier the fish, the heavier the action that you should buy Most manufacturers use terms such as ultra-light, light, medium-heavy or heavy Lure/Line weight Lure and line weight also play into rod selection. The heavier these are, the longer and heavier the pole that you should buy. Materials/Construction Most rods today are made from either graphite or fiberglass, or a composition of these two materials. Graphite Graphite has been refined over the years to provide lighter, more flexible rods that give you "sensitivity," a big plus in feeling when a fish begins to nibble on your bait Fiberglass Fiberglass provides more durability than graphite but sacrifices some sensitivity and is heavier than graphite Composites Composites give you the best of both graphite and fiberglass-- the durability of fiberglass combined with the lightweight, power and sensitivity of graphite Grips Pistol grip A pistol grip is the shortest type of grip It is contoured to the shape of your hand with a hook for your index finger This hook helps in casting more accurately Triggerstick A longer triggerstick is used for two-handed, longer casts Materials Materials come in two general styles - cork or EVA foam Cork is a traditional material that has a good feel and solid grip EVA foam offers more durability because it is more resistant to temperature changes and water wear Guides Line guides can be made of plastic, metal or ceramic, listed from least to best quality. These circles are positioned to the rod's shaft to control fishing line. In casting rods, line guides are positioned on top of the rod. They are smaller to reduce the play in the line and allow for easier casting and quicker retrieve. Spinning rods place the line guides on the rod's bottom. These guides get larger toward the base of the rod. The number of line guides is determined by the rod's length as well as by the quality of the rod How to buy combos If you are new to fishing, combos are a great way to start. Manufacturers match the right reel with the right rod. All you need to do is determine the type of fishing that you want to do and then find the combo that best suits your needs Like anything else, the more features in a combo, as well as the more quality components, the more you will pay. A good combo, though, can provide a lifetime of fun. |
How to Buy: Freshwater Reels, Freshwater Rods |
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