To properly buy a sea fishing rod, you need to do more than just read reviews or purchase based on a friend’s recommendation. You should take into account the kind of fishing you intend to do.
Inshore Fishing
This means you will be fishing in shallow water. The fish will be less than 20 lbs. You need a rod that can handle small to medium size fish. It does not have to be very big.
Inshore Fly Fishing
For beginners, the ideal saltwater fly outfit weight range is around six to eight. This is about the midrange level. There are larger ones for bigger fish. For freshwater applications, there are light ones available.
Note: fly fishing is something new fishermen do not usually do. But if you want to give it a try, use the weight range recommended.
Casting and Spinning
Casting rods can be used with ordinary reels. They are utilized with bait when light bottom fishing. These are ideal for free lining live bait.
Spinning rods are similar to casting rods; the difference is the latter uses a spinning reel. This is a good choice for those new to anglers. The spinning tools can cast light lures, and backlash will not be an issue.
Bottom Fishing
You can use either spinning or casting sea fishing rods. The rod size needed depends on a couple of factors, namely the water depth and the current. The rod size will also be influenced by the weight needed to get the bait to the bottom.
Offshore Fishing
For offshore fishing, you may use these rods.
Trolling
Most trolling rods are made for standard reels. For trolling king mackerels and dolphins, conventional tackle is preferred. Spinning gear may also be employed though. These rods are typically classified by the line class.
Offshore Bottom Fishing
Also called meat rods, these are utilized to haul in plenty of fish. These are bigger, stiffer and longer than trolling rods.
Offshore Fly Rods
These weighty outfits come with big arbor reels. The weight can range from 9 to 12. These are categorized as specialized rods made for a particular type of fishing.
Pier Fishing
You can utilize surf rods or any type of inshore rod. To choose the rod type, the casting distance, angler preference and the fish you are going after have to be assessed.
Surf Rods
These are constructed for casting and spinning reels. The length varies from 9 to 14 feet. These are made for long casts so the bait can go beyond the beach breakers. The heavier rods are for bigger fish.
Buying Tips
Long rods usually mean long casts while long trolling rods are meant for light trolling lines. For easier lure casting, use long rods. For bottom fishing, shorter rods are the better option.
Unless you buy a sea fishing rod fit for the fishing you will do, you will only get frustrated. For this reason, you need to account for the factors mentioned above. Armed with plenty of rod info, fishing will be more pleasurable.
