Tips for Selecting the Ideal Fishing Rod

There are several elements that will impact the quality and success of a given fishing vacation, and the equipment you're using is at or near the top of any such list. One of the single most important pieces of fishing equipment out there, and one no fisher can go without: The fishing rod itself.

At Pybus Point Lodge, we're happy to not only offer all-inclusive Alaskan fishing adventures and related vacation options, from guided saltwater fishing to halibut fishing, salmon fishing and more, but also to provide expertise and tips to all our clients looking to ensure they have all the right equipment on-hand for their next trip. What are some specific tips we often offer to those who are selecting a new fishing rod for their vacation? Here are several to consider.

Which Type(s) of Fish Are You Catching?

First and foremost, before digging into any additional fishing rod selection details, you should know the types of fish you'll be catching and their size. This information can be found in several places, including from our professionals for any of our trips -- you can also typically locate it at a local parks department, or through various online resources. This will inform the rest of the decisions you make.

Rod Power

When we talk about power, we're referring top the amount of force the rod needs for it to bend. This element is also sometimes referred to as "weight" or "tapper" in the fishing industry.

How much power your rod contains will be the driving factor in the types and sizes of fish you can catch. Lightweight rods, for example, are ideal for catching smaller fish, or for those anglers who want to enjoy longer casts; when you're battling a larger predator specimen that requires more strength and leverage, however, these rods may snap from the pressure.

Meanwhile, heavyweight rods will be useful if you're trying to catch larger fish species in deep water (and often aren't needed unless this is your goal). The weights on these rods are much higher for obvious reasons, and you can also use them to catch smaller fish; of course, if you're keeping the larger specimens for your dinner plate -- or for other purposes -- then you may run into problems if they get away due to a heavy rod.

Fishing Rod Action Type

Fishing rods also come with varying "action" levels, from fast-action rods to moderate and slower options as well. Fast-action rods are mush stiffer and faster to reel in, while moderate-action rods fall in the middle -- and these are usually ideal for those anglers who need a little more finesse when fishing, such as those looking to catch smaller species.

Slower actions, meanwhile, can be frustrating with smaller fish but are extremely helpful when you're casting further distances or into stronger winds. If you're looking to get that fly or lure over some deeper water, or if you're trying to cast into a stiff breeze and need help getting that line going, then slower-action rods will prove extremely helpful.

Hook Type

The above can also be impacted by the type of hook you choose on your rod. For fast-action rods, for instance, single hooks are usually only ever needed; for slow-action rods, on the other hand, treble hooks are often ideal.

Fishing Rod Lengths

The rod's overall length is another factor you should consider, as this can also impact your ability to catch certain species of fish -- and it can also impact your ability to cast distance. It's important to know not only the size of the fish you're going after, but also how far away they are; if you're trying to pull in a 50-pound salmon on a 3-foot rod, for example, you may find yourself frustrated by all the extra line you have to reel in.

Fishing rods generally range anywhere from 4 to 14 feet in length, with most anglers settling in on 7 to 8 foot rods -- and some may even prefer a 6-footer, as it can be easier for casting distance. If you're fishing from a boat and need to cast beyond the length of your rod, or if you simply want a longer reach than your current one offers, take a look at telescopic fishing rods; these types of rods will collapse down, allowing you to keep the rod in your vehicle and simply pull it out when needed.

Fishing Rod Grip and Handle Length

You also need to think about grip, a factor that's often overlooked by beginners, but is actually pretty important. A lot of grips are made from cork or rubber for cushioning purposes -- and both of these materials are extremely comfortable. Fancy grips can also be made from a number of other materials, such as graphite or even wood -- and you'll find that some may offer certain advantages over others (though it's important to note they cannot provide any sort of advantage when fishing).

Also think about the handle length of your rod while making your choice. Longer handles (like those over 18 inches) are ideal if you're fishing from a boat, but may be a hindrance when casting from shore; conversely, short handles (15-inches or less) offer the ability to cast further distances but can be more difficult to use in some scenarios.

For more tips on how to select the ideal fishing rod for your next fishing vacation, or to learn about any of our guided fishing tours and other wildlife adventures, speak to the staff at Pybus Point Lodge today.