Different Kinds Of Fishing Rods With Advantages And Disadvantages
Fishing is a popular outdoor sport, and just like any other sport, this, too, requires the use of the right equipment and gear. If you do not pick the right gear, you may not have the best catch ratio. One of the essential gear in fishing is the rod. There are different kinds of fishing rods available, but the choice of the rod that you pick depends on three factors:
- Where do you generally fish
- The type of fish you like chasing
- The bait you will use
Once you know these three aspects choosing from the different types of fishing rods will be streamlined. Primarily, when you scan through the different types of fishing poles, you will note that they differ from one another in strength, length, weight, width, flexibility, and activity.
First, however, you must know what kind of fishing rod is ideal for what situation. Here, in this article, we have fishing rod types explained for your easier understanding.
So, let us get started and address the different types of fishing poles one by one. That’s not all; we will also provide you with some options to buy in each category.
Hope with these fishing rod types explained; it would be easier for you to make a selection.
Table of Contents
- Different Kinds of Fishing Rods Compared
- 9 Types of Rods for Fishing
- Buying Guide For Variety Of Fishing Rod Types
- Fishing Rod Types: FAQs
- Conclusion
Different Kinds of Fishing Rods Compared
Features | Where to use? | Suitable Fishes | Buy Now |
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Casting Fishing Rods | |||
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Spin Fishing Rod | |||
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Telescoping Fishing Rods | |||
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Fly Fishing Rods | |||
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Ultra-Light Fishing Rods | |||
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Pen fishing rod | |||
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Surf Fishing Rods | |||
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Trolling Rods | |||
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Ice Fishing Rods | |||
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Different Kinds Of Fishing Rods Available In The Market
1. Casting Fishing Rods
In this fishing rod, you can position the bait onto the hook. Here, the reel handles point in an upwards direction and whenever a fish pulls the line, the line gets slightly bent from the point of the rod guide.
Casting rods are meant for serious fishing, to say the least. They work supremely well with bigger lures and aiming for bigger fishes.
Casting Fishing Rod Types Explained
Now that we have casting fishing rod types explained, you should know that there are two types of casting rods:
- Baitcasting fishing rod (Sometimes the term baitcasting rods is interchangeably used for casting rods)
- Spin casting fishing rod
The former is used with the baitcasting reels, and the latter is used with spin casting reels, but both are sold under the banner of casting rods.
When to be used?
When you go fishing in streams or open waters, fishing rod types that work well for you are the casting fishing rods. As established, amongst the different types of fishing rods, baitcasting and spinning rods (mentioned in the next section) are some of the best suited for beginners.
The casting rods can come in handy when fishing for the:
- Panfish
- Yellow perch
- Larger fish, such as walleye, lake trout, salmon, northern pike, blue catfish, and striped bass
- All warm water species
Pros
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Cons
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Casting Rods to Buy
Entsport E Series – Camo Legend 2-Piece 7-Feet Casting Rod 24 Ton Carbon Fiber Baitcasting Fishing Rod | Check price on Amazon |
Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Rod – Durable Lightweight Sensitive Quality Casting Fishing Rod | Check price on Amazon |
Croix Rods Mojo Bass Casting Rod | Check price on Amazon |
2. Spin Fishing Rod
Now that we have the casting fishing rod types explained let us move on to the spin fishing rods. For someone new, it is not easy to draw a line between the spin fishing rod and the casting rod. But, after you know the difference between the two, you will understand that they are two different fishing rods.
Spin fishing rods are relatively less heavy and shorter opposed to the casting rods and uses a spinning reel with it. Also, the reel on spinning rods is mounted at the bottom instead of the top like casting rods.
Typically, the spin fishing rods are somewhere around 4-9 feet long, and the number of eyes they have naturally depended on how long the rod is.
However, you can find anything between 5-9 eyes. There are light action spin fishing rods, mid-action spin fishing rods, and heavy action spin fishing rods.
As the reel is nestled below the rod, and you will employ your non-dominant hand to work with it.
When to be used?
This rod is perfect to use when you wish to work with lighter lures and are not aiming for something huge.
These fishing rod types can be used for fishing species, such as:
- Trout
- Bass
- Pike
- Walleye
- Steelhead
- Salmon
- Saltwater fish
Alternatively, these fishing rod types will also work fine for the smaller species.
Pros
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Cons
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Spinning Rods to Buy
Cadence Spinning Rod | Check price on Amazon |
Ougayilang Fishing Rods Graphite | Check price on Amazon |
Croix Rods Triumph Spinning Rod | Check price on Amazon |
3. Telescoping Fishing Rods
Now that we have the casting and spin fishing rod types explained let us move on to the telescoping fishing rod types. There are typically two categories in the best telescopic fishing rods. First are the long rods that can be crumpled down into a shorter version, and the other may be shorter ones that can be extended further.
This adds to the portability of the telescoping fishing rod types, and you can easily transport these fishing rod types to the fishing location. A few advanced telescoping fishing rod types can be used in all kinds of fishing situations. They are made from the same material as the conventional fishing rod types.
When to be used?
Amongst the different types of fishing poles, these are best suited when you have to travel a long route to reach your fishing destination. They also come in handy on backpacking, camping, and hiking trips.
If you travel via bicycle or have little space in your car, then, too, these fishing rod types will come in handy. You can use them in both freshwater and saltwater.
Typically, these fishing rod types can be used for fishing any type of fish, and you can adjust the reel and bait as required. Some fishes that can be chased with these rods are:
- Bream
- Bass
- Trout
- Salmon
Pros
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Cons
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Best Telescopic Rods to Buy
PLUSINNO Telescopic Fishing Rod | Check price on Amazon |
KastKing Compass Telescopic Fishing Rods | Check price on Amazon |
Sougayilang Fishing Rod Telescopic Fishing Rod Portable | Check price on Amazon |
4. Fly Fishing Rods
By now, we have three different types of fishing rods explained. So, now let us move on to the fourth one, which is the Fly Fishing rod.
Fly rods are meant for fly fishing which is nothing but luring the fish in using artificial bait made of features or similar items. The bait resembles a flying invertebrate and tricks the fish in getting caught.
Fly rods are thinner and relatively lighter than most other fishing rod types. Further, compared to the different types of fishing rods,these can be found in six to eight feet height.
An exceptional thing that makes them stand apart from the other different fishing rods is that they cast fast and freely. It is primarily because of the absence of the butt piece after the reel.
In the case of these fishing rod types, the reel is mounted lower, a tad below the handle. This assures a more outstanding balance. These are versatile, and you can find them in an array of actions and lengths.
When to be used?
Fly anglers mostly employ fly rods. Depending on the size and the action, you can use your fly rods for a diverse range of fish in various waters. For example, you can use these rods for chasing the giant marlin or tuna in the ocean to the littlest of the trout in a pond.
Other fish that you can catch with fly fishing rods include:
- Bass
- Pike
- Carp
- Salmon
- Sharks
- Steelhead
Pros
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Cons
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Fly Fishing Rods to Buy
Wild Water Fly Fishing 9 Foot | Check price on Amazon |
Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo | Check price on Amazon |
Piscifun Sword Graphite Fly Fishing Rod | Check price on Amazon |
5. Ultra-Light Fishing Rods
As is clear from the name, the ultra-light fishing rods are the most lightweight rods from among all the fishing rod types explained. Though there are different fishing rods, the fact of the matter is, the ultra-light fishing rods can be casting rods, spin rods, fly rods, or any other rod from the different types of rods for fishing explained here.
Typically speaking, this is only a representation category and is used to determine the rod used for catching the smaller fish.
When to be used?
These fishing rod types are perfect for use in a backpacking trip. Different fishing rods serve different purposes but depending on the type in the ultra-light category; you can use it for:
- Trout fishing
- Small warm water fishing
- Camping
- Backpacking
Pros
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Cons
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Ultra-Light Rods to Buy
Okuma Celilo Graphite Lightweight Ultra Light | Check price on Amazon |
Sougayilang Fishing Rods Graphite Lightweight Ultra Light Trout Rods | Check price on Amazon |
BERRYPRO Ultralight Spinning Fishing Rods | Check price on Amazon |
6. Pen Fishing Rod
We have already discussed five different types of fishing rods. Taking this list of the different types of fishing poles forward, we have the pen fishing rods for you. These are ideally the most compact and portable fishing rod types. You can fold them up, and they will take the shape of a pen. So, you can conveniently fit them in your pocket.
Among the different fishing rods,this one is quite unique because of its size.
When to be used?
Typically, just like the other different types of fishing rods,you can use them anywhere. However, make sure you support it with a lighter reel, tackle, and weight-line on the rod.
You can use it for fishing smaller species, such as:
- Panfish
- Perch
Pros
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Cons
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Pen Fishing Pocket Rods to Buy
Lixada Pen Fishing Rod Reel Combo Set | Check price on Amazon |
MultiOutools Pen Fishing Rod | Check price on Amazon |
Docooler Fishing Rod Mini Fishing Pole Retractable Pocket Pen with Fishing Reel and Fishing Line | Check price on Amazon |
7. Surf Fishing Rods
Now, coming to the sixth kind of fishing rods in our list for the different types of fishing poles, the surf fishing rods. Well, in all honesty, surf fishing can be enjoyable and exciting, provided you have the right kind of rod from the different fishing rods.
We have studied through the different types of fishing poles, and a few of the rods cast longer casts, while others perform only shorter casts. These fishing rod types are incredibly long. Thus, they help you cast the line far. They can be about 12-15 feet.
When to use it?
Among the different fishing rods, if you want the rod that can help you cast from pier, beach, surf, or other shore areas, this can be your go-to rod.
You can use it for:
- Shallow sea fishing for all kinds of species
- Beach fishing
Pros
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Cons
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Surf Rods to Buy
Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods | Check price on Amazon |
BERRYPRO Surf Spinning Fishing Rod | Check price on Amazon |
Fiblink Surf Spinning & Casting Fishing Rod Carbon Fiber Travel | Check price on Amazon |
8. Trolling Rods
Taking our list for the different types of fishing rodsfurther, we now have come to the trolling rods. These are perfect picks when you seek a pleasurable and fun-filled fishing experience with large fishes. They enable you to drag the lure through the water to attract a big catch.
When you look at the different types of fishing poles each rod is meant for a specialized fishing experience. The same is the case with trolling rods. They are thick and strong to bear with the strong water currents while dragging the bait in the water.
When to be used?
If you need the rod that works best for the moving boats amongst the different fishing rods, then the trolling rods can be your go-to pick.
You can pick these over the different types of rods for fishing if you are chasing the:
- Pond fishes
- Ocean fishes
- Big lake fishes
Pros
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Cons
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Best Trolling Rods
Okuma Classic Pro GLT & Rods | Check price on Amazon |
Fiblink Saltwater Offshore Heavy Trolling Fishing | Check price on Amazon |
Fiblink 1-Piece/2-Piece Saltwater Offshore Heavy Trolling Rod | Check price on Amazon |
9. Ice Fishing Rods
Last on our list for the different types of fishing rodsare the ice fishing rods. In ice fishing, you are supposed to drill a hole into the ice and fish closely. This is why these rods are pretty small in size. Typically, they will be between 25-37 inches. Since it is small in size, it naturally has fewer eyes. Generally speaking, ice fishing rods are short spin rods.
When should it be used?
When you are fishing in the ice, you have to use these rods in small access holes drilled through the ice. You cannot, however, land a giant fish with these rods. They can only be used for chasing small fish, such as:
- Crappies
- Smelt
- Perch
- Medium fish species, such as pike and walleye
Pros
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Cons
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Ice Fishing Rods to Buy
Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Ice Fishing Reel | Check price on Amazon |
Croix Rods Mojo Ice Fishing Rod | Check price on Amazon |
Fiblink Graphite Ice Fishing Rod Pole Gear Equipment for Walleye Perch | Check price on Amazon |
Buying Guide For Different Types Of Fishing Poles
When you have to choose between the different fishing rods,there are some factors that you need to consider.
1. Material
The different fishing rods are available in various materials. The kind of material you opt for depends on the fishing activity and the kind of fishing you are engaging in.
We will explain a few common kinds of fishing rods below:
2. Graphite rods
If you are an experienced angler, you will love the lightweight feel and the top quality of the rods composed of graphite materials. Consequently, these rods work well in all types of fishing conditions. These are fast-action rods and are pricier than the other variants.
3. Fiberglass rods
These are suitable for beginners and novice anglers, as they can withstand the wear and tear of regular or careless fishing. In addition, they are the most affordable. Also, compared to the graphite rods, these are heavier. So, they are perfect for chasing the bigger fish.
4. Bamboo rods
If you need a rod that has a delicate and subtle presentation, then these can be your pick. They assure a smooth casting and fight the fish well.
5. Composite rods
These are an amalgam of graphite and fiberglass rods. So, you can get the best of both worlds.
6. Rod Length
The length of the rod is directly related to how long you can cast with the rod. But, heres a catch – the longer the cast the difficult it is to control & maneuver. So, pick a rod that suits your need. Like ice fishing requires a shorter rod.
7. Rod Action and Power
Rod action can be defined as how close or far does the rod bend from the tip. The faster the action, the closer is the bend to the tip. Rod power describes the strength of the rod. This means how much pressure or weight is needed to bend the rod. Pick a correct balance of power and action suited for the type of fishing you are going for.
8. Location
Your choice of the rod also depends on where you go fishing. So, if you plan on fishing in the ice, you will opt for the ice fishing rods. However, if you are fishing in ponds, streams, rivers, and lakes, the spinning or the casting rod can be your preferred pick.
9. Type of fish
The type of fish you chase will also determine the kind of rod you pick. If you chase the giant fish in the ocean, you need a sea fishing rod or the heavy fishing rod. However, if you are fishing in your neighborhood, you can speak to the fish management department of your area and find out about all the prevalent catches. Then, depending on the fish you can find in abundance in the region, you can decide on your fishing rod.
10. Experience
The kind of experience you hold in the fishing world also determines the kind of rod you shop for. So, if you are a newbie, you must never opt for a fly fishing rod. Instead, you could invest in a spinning rod.
Fishing Rod Types: FAQs
Q 1. What is the best type of fishing rod?
Ans. Amongst the different types of fishing rods, the casting rods are the best kind.
Q 2. What is the difference between a baitcasting rod and a spinning rod?
Ans. The primary difference between the spinning rod and the baitcasting rod lies in the reel that gets annexed to it. In the casting rod, the baitcasting reel is annexed onto the handle. On the other hand, the spinning rods are annexed with an open-faced, underslung spinning reel, which comes with a rotating bail to wind the line. Both the guides and the reel seats are different in these rods to accommodate the reel type’s operation and attachment.
Q 3. What is the difference between a casting rod and a trolling rod?
Ans. The former utilizes a bait caster reel and can undertake the different permutations of action and power. In contrast, the trolling rod employing a trolling reel is a heavy rod suited for catching a big fish only.
Q4. What is the best fishing rod for a beginner?
Ans. Spinning rods are the best fishing rod types for beginners.
Conclusion
As is clear, there are different fishing rods for the different types of fish and the different locations for fishing. Thus, you must know which amongst the different fishing rods will be ideally suited for the area wherein you fish. We would recommend shopping for all nine different types of fishing poles for someone who loves fishing and exploring the different areas. In this manner, with the different types of fishing rods explained above, regardless of the location or the type of fish you desire to chase, you can surely enjoy a successful fishing session. Go on and add up to your selection of fishing rod types!