How to Choose a Bait Casting Rod
Bait casting rods are designed for use with an open-face bait casting reel when fishing live bait, poppers, plugs and lures that require casting accuracy to be effective in the water. The reel mounts on top of a bait casting rod, which often comes with a pistol grip. Two-handed rod models are typically used for deep-sea fishing. Choosing the right bait casting rod depends on the angler's budget and the type of fishing to be done.
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Instructions
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Decide how the rod will be used. A freshwater bait casting rod for catching largemouth bass is shorter and lighter than a deep-sea bait casting rod designed for battling big tuna and swordfish. If freshwater fishing is the main goal, look at lighter rods. If the rod will be used out on the ocean, look at tools suited for the job of fighting big fish.
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Choose the rod materials, which will also affect the cost. Fiberglass is the most common and also the least expensive material used for bait casting rods. It offers a good balance of strength and flexibility at the expense of heavier weight. Graphite is a much lighter material, yet is stronger and more durable than fiberglass. Graphite rods are also more expensive than their fiberglass counterparts.
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Shop for a bait casting reel to go with the rod in order to put together a balanced combination. If the angler already owns a bait casting reel, take it to tackle shops and sporting goods stores to try it out on different bait casting rods. The reel and rod, when mounted together, should feel comfortable and balanced in the angler's open palm when the rod is placed in the hand with the reel immediately on top. Proper balance is essential to accurate casting, as well as long hours of comfortable fishing.
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Check the action on the rod, which is listed with the product information. Freshwater bait casting rods are available in ultralight, medium and heavy models, and occasionally with intermediate levels, such as medium-heavy, depending on the rod manufacturer. A stiff, heavy-duty rod is a good choice when fishing for big bruisers, such as pike and sturgeon in freshwater, or tuna, mahi-mahi, swordfish and shark in saltwater. Lighter action rods are often more fun to fish with because the catch will give a better fight on light tackle.
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