So You Want To Start Fishing

Imagine this; you are walking into your local sporting goods store because you have decided to take up the sport of fishing. You walk over to the fishing isle and you stand in front of what seems like a mile long display of different types of fishing rods. You are about ready to throw your hands up in the air and say I’ll just go buy some fish. Well, hang on a second before you give up. Yes, it can be overwhelming but let me help you to make it a little more manageable.


Picking a rod is an important process in fishing. I mean without a rod how are you going to catch anything? Now, back to the mile long display. What you are trying to catch plays a huge part in the rod that you choose. There are 5 different categories of rod/reel combinations. They are, spin casting, spinning, bait casting, trolling, and fly casting. The first decision you have to make is what kind of fish are you looking to catch?


Once you know what you are looking to catch, that will help you to decide the length of the rod that you will need. The longer the rod the longer the cast, more control over the line, and more accuracy. A shorter rod will give you the power and heaviness that a longer rod cannot provide.


Congratulations, you are shortening that overwhelming rod isle. The next step would be to choose a reel. For us first time anglers, a spinning reel is suggested for use. Of the five different categories mentioned, spinning reel holds the line in a spool and the line is cast off one end.


Your last decision in picking your new fishing pole is down to how much you are willing to pay. They can cost from $10 to thousands of dollars. Once you think you have found the rod you want, pick it up and handle it. Give it a good once over to check for cracks or defects. Once you are satisfied with your choice, it is time to hit the water and begin enjoying the sport of fishing.