How to Balance a Spinning Rod
A spinning rod and reel comco makes a suitable choice for anglers graduating from a spin-cast rod and reel. Trout anglers employ spinning rods to present small lures while bass anglers use them to fish soft plastics. A balanced spinning outfit is necessary to properly present a lure or weight into the water. Properly match the major components to achieve the proper balance, feel and casting ability.
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Instructions
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Evaluate the size of fishing lures or amount of weight that will be used to fish. Choose, for example, a rod with a lure weight range of 1/8- to 3/8-oz. if using 1/4-oz. spinners or weight. Select a rod that will allow you to go up or down slightly in lure weight as fishing conditions change.
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Use the weight of the lure combined with the type of fish you will be attempting to catch to determine a fishing line for the rod and reel. Select a line with a 4-lb. test rating for small mountain trout or a 12-lb. test rating for largemouth bass.
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Select a rod using the weight range and line size information you have determined. Look for the lure and line weight information on the rod just above the handle. Choose a 6 1/2-foot rod as a starting point and adjust the length up or down based on personal preference.
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Match a spinning reel to the rod. Choose a spinning reel that has at least three ball bearings for smooth operation. Select a spinning reel to match the rod based on overall size as well as the amount of line it will hold. Locate the line capacity information on the reel. Make sure the reel is rated for the pound test line you will be fishing.
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Attach the reel securely to the reel seat on the rod handle. Hold the rod firmly with your hand. Move the rod back and forth with a casting motion to evaluate the balance and weight of the rod and reel.
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Attach the line to the reel with an arbor knot. Fill the spool to within 1/2-inch of the spool edge with the fishing line.
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References
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