All About Bass Fishing - Guide To Rod Types

The most important trait of a fishing rod is matching it to the type of lure you will be throwing. It must have enough backbone to properly set the hook and be of acceptable quality to be a good investment. Sensitivity is crucial when fishing most lures for bass, especially worms and jigs.

3 Most Important Factors About Fishing Rods

Quality fishing rods are made to fit lure weights, fishing techniques and fishing requirements.
If you can only afford one rod get a medium action, 6’ rod (medium priced).
Graphite is the number-one choice for sensitivity at a light weight.

Choose a rod to match your fishing style.

Fishing rods are designed for specific lure weights and line. Each rod has a defined tip flex and backbone strength. Find the right combination for your specific type bass fishing. Choosing between spinning rods and bait casting rods is based on the lures you will be casting and your need for accuracy. Spinning rods typically cast farther and bait casting reels typically allow you to be more accurate. As you consider purchasing your first basic bass fishing rod, or when adding new basic rods, these are some of the factors to consider…

For lakes with very little cover and generally clear water:

Light line and small lures are often ideal for these conditions, so select a rod with a medium-light action in either spinning or bait casting. These rods are great for 6 to 10 pound monofilament line or equivalent. Make sure the rod has enough backbone to set the hook on long casts. If you are fishing water that is producing larger bass, use 10-pound line (you may also want to consider fluorocarbon or braid options – see fishing line section). These rods are available in standard lengths from 5 ½ feet to 7 feet. Longer rods cast farther and are helpful for extremely clear water conditions.

For lakes with heavy cover and generally dirty water conditions:

Heavier line is required any time you are fishing around brush or timber. This dictates heavier-action rods and reels designed for bulkier line. Bait casting reels should be your first choice. Rods of medium to medium-heavy action work well for these conditions. Depending on the size bass you expect to encounter and the thickness of the cover, choose line from 14 to 20 pound monofilament (you may also want to consider fluorocarbon or braid options – see fishing line section). These rods are available in standard lengths from 5 ½ feet to 7 feet. Longer rods cast farther and are helpful for extremely clear water conditions.

Specialty Rods:

There are an unlimited number of specialty rods available as well. Each rod is designed for a specific type fishing, including flipping, worming, cranking, top water, swim baits, ultra light, pitching and many others. When you are ready for specialty rods, do some research and consult rod manufacturers before making a purchase.

Things to consider when purchasing any bass fishing rod:

Rod blank material. Fiberglass rods are designed to throw lures farther and allow for a softer hook set. Graphite rods are generally stiffer, lighter and allow for a more solid hook set. Combination fiberglass/graphite rods are also available.

Rod Handles.

Pistol grips are made for shorter, more accurate casts and trigger sticks are made for longer casts where accuracy is not as crucial.

Pricing

You don’t want to invest in a rod that is so cheap it fails or breaks. On the other hand you don’t need the most expensive rods on the market either. There are plenty of moderately priced rods of good quality available. A good rule of thumb is to purchase within the high side of your budget comparing products and warranties before selecting a rod.

The most common mistake new anglers make when purchasing a bass rod, is choosing a rod that is too soft an action. Stiffer rods are more sensitive, allow for better hook sets and give you more control over big bass in cover.

All About Bass Fishing - Guide To Rod Types

3 Most Important Factors About Fishing Rods

Choose a rod to match your fishing style.

For lakes with very little cover and generally clear water:

For lakes with heavy cover and generally dirty water conditions:

Specialty Rods:

Things to consider when purchasing any bass fishing rod:

Rod Handles.

Pricing

AA Bass Fishing Knowledge Base

Bass information by state.

Fishing Information

All About Bass & How To Catch Them.