Conventional Fishing Rods: What You Need To Know

Conventional Fishing Rods: What You Need to Know

Conventional fishing rods and conventional tackle is the go-to gear for most anglers in water that ranges from inland lakes to offshore reefs. As a single rod capable of catching fish in almost all circumstances, the utility of a conventional fishing rod is second to none. Here’s everything you need to know about conventional fishing rods.

What is a Conventional Fishing Rod

Conventional fishing rods are common rods consisting of a handle, tapered shaft, and eyelets. These rods are capable of targeting a wide range of fish species in a variety of environments. Conventional fishing rods are general purpose and typically range from five to seven feet long. The reels used on conventional fishing rods include spinning, baitcasting, and conventional reels.

Types of Conventional Fishing Rods

There are a few varieties of conventional rods to choose from depending on the application and reel choice. Spinning rods are used with spinning reels and feature enlarged eyelets that allow lines to spool off the reel during a cast without getting tangled. Baitcasting rods are used with baitcasting reels, which have very small eyelets because the line comes off the reel with very little slack. There are also conventional rods made for heavy conventional reels. They typically have reinforced eyelets, handles, and reel mounts, making them ideal for targeting larger fish like tuna and sharks.

Fishing Rod Length, Weight, and Action

The three attributes that vary from one conventional rod to another are length, weight, and action. Fishing rods have many different configurations of these attributes, allowing them to be more effective with their intended bait in their intended environment. Rod length is important for casting. Longer rods are generally capable of casting further, while shorter rods are more maneuverable.

Rod weight, sometimes called “rod power”, refers to the resistance or spring of a rod when it’s flexed. This usually depends on the size and strength of the target species, with rods typically ranging from light to heavy. Rod action describes how the rod bends as force is applied. Fast action rods bend progressively from the tip down the rod while slow action rods bend throughout the rod in a crescent shape. Simply put, rod action is how sensitive and twitchy the rod feels.

Fast action rods are very sensitive, which is perfect for fishing with live bait where you want to feel even the slightest bump. Slow action rods are great for crankbaits and divers because they soak up vibrations well.

Conventional Fishing Rods

Conventional fishing rods are a vast category with an endless variety of attributes and applications. While this outlines the most common conventional rods, there are many other specialized versions including surf rods, trolling rods, and ice fishing rods. If you aren’t sure what rod to get to fish in your area, check out our fishing charters led by experienced guides who have the expert knowledge to help you pick the right gear.