Fishing Equipment – Getting the Right Gear

Fishing Equipment – Getting the Right Gear

Some UK anglers believe that good fishing equipment leads to good technique that leads to positive results in your landing net. Others believe that an experienced fisherman, regardless of the type of fishing gear he has, is more likely to have a successful outing. Here’s some basic information about fishing tackle, specifically rods and reels that should help you decide what’s best for your specific needs.

Fishing Rods

Every fishing rod must have a certain degree of flexibility, which depends to some degree on the material from which it is made. Popular materials for a fishing rod are bamboo, fiberglass and graphite. Bamboo is inexpensive, strong and has a tensile strength superior to mild steel. Bamboo’s strength-to-weight ratio surpasses graphite’s. Fiberglass is durable and inexpensive as well. Bamboo and fiberglass rods are popular with beginners. Many expert anglers favour graphite rods because they are strong, lightweight, durable and ultra-sensitive to the feel of a fish ready to strike. The length of your fishing pole depends on the fishing locale and the type of fish you’re seeking. The diameter of the rod influences its flexibility. The larger the diameter, the less flexible the rod will be. For big fish, choose a short rod with a substantial diameter. Rod handles are commonly made from cork or foam. The choice is a matter of personal preference.

Fishing Reels

There are four major types of fishing reels: fly cast, bait cast, spin cast and spinning. Spinning reels are the most popular and are easy to use. Spin casting reels are hybrids of spinning reels and bait casting reels and have a cover that helps keep the line from tangling. The line pays out through a hole in the cover. Both spinning and spin casting reels mount under the rod’s handle. Bait casting reels mount above the rod’s handle and retrieve the line onto a revolving spool. These rods work well for bigger fish, salt water fishing and offshore fishing. Fly fishing tackle reels depend on the weight of the line, not the weight of a lure and sinker, to get a lightweight lure out over the water. These reels are designed to accommodate thicker, heavier fishing line and have few mechanical parts.