Let's Try Fishing PT. 2

Last week we talked about fishing as a way to help pass the time until it is warm enough to go back out on the water and start landing new tricks. We started with the basics of fishing, the hook. This week we will continue on the topic of beginner fishing to help you find the perfect fishing rod out of all the ones you see sitting in the store.

Picking a rod is an important process in fishing and it can seem overwhelming with all the different options. Let us help you to narrow down your selection. What you are trying to catch plays a huge role in the fishing rod that you end up with. There are five different categories of rod/reel combos. 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 type of fish you will be looking for in the lake, you can decide on the length of your rod. 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. For the beginner fisherman I would suggest a nice mid weight, mid length rod. Nothing to fancy, remember you are just learning.

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 comes 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 in the store. Don't worry, you won't look stupid. It is best to get a rod that you feel is comfortable in your had. Give it a good once over to check for cracks or defects.

Finding the right rod can seem like an impossible task, but hopefully with this help, you are able to find the one that will help you learn how to fish.