How to Choose the Right Fishing Rod and Reel for Lake Fishing
With so many options on the market, choosing the right fishing rod can seem overwhelming, especially for beginners. Here I will try to explain some of the different kinds of rods with advantages and disadvantages to try and give you some idea of what you need for your first rod and reel, ensuring you are well-prepared for your next fishing adventure.
We all know how it started. A cane rod with a line tied to the end and a worm on a bent pin. We have come a long way since then.
In this article, I will discuss the various fishing rods and reels that are available. Because of the complexity of general lake fishing, I can only scratch the surface but hopefully give some help when sourcing fishing equipment.
Understand the Types of Fishing Rods
Fishing rods come in various types, each designed for specific fishing techniques and environments. For lake fishing, the following types are most commonly used:
- Spinning Fishing Rod: These are the most versatile and beginner-friendly rods. They are designed to hold spinning reels and are excellent for casting lightweight lures over long distances. Spinning rods are ideal for catching small to medium-sized fish, such as bass, trout, and panfish, commonly found in lakes.
- Casting Fishing Rod: These rods are paired with baitcasting or spincast reels. They offer better control and accuracy, making them suitable for more experienced anglers. Casting rods are ideal for targeting larger fish and using heavier lures or bait.
- Fly Fishing Rod: Fly rods are specifically designed for fly fishing, a technique that involves casting a lightweight fly onto the water’s surface. While fly fishing is less common in lakes compared to rivers and streams, it can be effective in certain lake environments, especially for catching trout.
- Telescopic Rod: These rods are collapsible, making them highly portable and convenient for anglers who travel frequently or have limited storage space. While they may not offer the same performance as traditional rods, they are a good option for casual lake fishing.
Consider the Material of the Rod
The material of the fishing rod plays a crucial role in its performance, sensitivity, and durability. The three most common materials used in fishing rods are:
- Fibreglass: Fibreglass rods are durable, flexible, and generally more affordable. They are an excellent choice for beginners or those who want a rod that can withstand rough handling. However, they are less sensitive than other materials, which may make it harder to detect subtle bites.
- Graphite: Graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive than fibreglass rods, making them ideal for detecting even the faintest bites. They are favoured by experienced anglers who prioritise sensitivity and precision. However, they are also more brittle and can break if not handled properly.
- Composite: Composite rods are made from a blend of fibreglass and graphite, offering a balance between durability and sensitivity. These rods are versatile and suitable for various fishing conditions, making them a great all-around choice for lake fishing.
Choose the Right Fishing Rod Length
The length of your fishing rod affects casting distance, accuracy, and leverage when reeling in a fish. For lake fishing, rod lengths typically range from 6 to 8 feet, but the ideal length depends on your fishing style and the specific conditions of the lake.
- Shorter Rods (6-7 feet): These rods offer greater control and accuracy, making them ideal for fishing in areas with heavy cover or vegetation, such as near docks, trees, or weed beds. They are also easier to handle for beginners.
- Longer Rods (7-8 feet): Longer rods provide greater casting distance, which is beneficial when fishing in open water or trying to reach deeper parts of the lake. They also offer better leverage when fighting larger fish.
Select the Appropriate Action and Power
Action and power are two critical characteristics of a fishing rod that determine its performance during casting and fighting fish.
There is usually writing on the fishing rod. This allows rod manufacturers to classify rods.The action of a rod refers to how much it bends under pressure. There are four action classifications that rods can have: ultra-fast, fast, medium, or slow action.
- Ultra Fast and Fast Action: The rod bends primarily at the tip, providing quick hook sets and increased sensitivity. This action is ideal for fishing with single-hook lures or bait.
- Moderate Action: The rod bends from the tip to the middle, offering a balance between sensitivity and power. It’s versatile and suitable for a wide range of fishing techniques.
- Slow Action: The rod bends throughout its length, providing a more parabolic bend. This action is best for casting light lures and fighting smaller fish.
Moderate or slow-action rods are usually recommended for beginners because of their flexibility.
Power refers to the rod’s resistance to bending and is classified as light, medium, or heavy. Most manufacturers print the power of the rod. There are three power classifications: light, medium, or heavy.
- Light Power: Best for small fish and light lures. Ideal for panfish and trout.
- Medium Power: Suitable for a variety of species, including bass and walleye. This offers a good balance between sensitivity and strength.
- Heavy Power: Designed for large fish and heavy lures. It’s best used when targeting big bass, catfish, or northern pike.
Reels
Reel manufacturers make life a little easier by telling you what the reel’s capacity is and printing it on the reel itself. Most reels are stamped with a series of numbers, and knowing what these means can help you understand more about what you need.
The first number is the size of the line your reel can hold. This is given in lbs, referring to the pound test of your line. The second number is the amount of line the reel can hold; this is usually in yards. Let us say your reel is stamped 12/200. This means the reel likes 12 lb. test line and can hold 200 yards.
Match Your Rod with the Right Reel
Selecting the right reel is just as important as choosing the right rod. The reel must be compatible with the rod and suitable for the type of fishing you plan to do.
- Spinning Reels: Spinning reels are the most popular choice for lake fishing. They are easy to use, versatile, and work well with lightweight lures. Spinning reels are mounted underneath the rod and are ideal for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
- Baitcasting Reels: These reels offer greater accuracy and control, especially when using heavier lures or targeting larger fish. However, they have a steeper learning curve and are more prone to backlash (a tangle in the reel). Baitcast reels are mounted on top of the rod.
- Shimano Baitrunner XT-B Loncast Medium – £199.99
- Spincast Reels: Spincast reels are user-friendly and feature a closed face, making them less prone to tangling. They are ideal for beginners and children, but they offer less casting distance and accuracy compared to spinning and baitcasting reels.
- Fly Reels: Used exclusively for fly fishing, fly reels are simple in design and work in tandem with fly rods. They are less common for lake fishing but can be effective in specific scenarios.
Consider the Gear Ratio of the Reel
The gear ratio of a reel determines how quickly the line is retrieved after a cast. It is expressed as a ratio, such as 6:1, which means the spool rotates six times for every one turn of the handle.
- High Gear Ratio (6:1 and above): These reels retrieve the line quickly, making them ideal for fast-moving lures and techniques that require quick retrieval.
- Medium Gear Ratio (5:1): A balanced option, suitable for a variety of lures and techniques. It offers a good mix of speed and power.
- Low Gear Ratio (4:1 and below): These reels provide more torque, making them suitable for retrieving heavy lures or fighting larger fish that require more power to reel in.
Pay Attention to Line Capacity and Drag System
When choosing a reel, consider the line capacity and drag system, as they play a crucial role in handling different fish sizes and fighting conditions.
- Line Capacity: This refers to the amount of fishing line the reel can hold. For lake fishing, it’s essential to have enough line to reach deep waters if necessary. The line capacity should match the type of fishing line you plan to use.
- Drag System: The drag system allows you to control the resistance a fish feels when pulling on the line. A smooth and adjustable drag system is vital for preventing the line from breaking, especially when fighting larger fish.
Balance Your Rod and Reel
To ensure comfort and efficiency during fishing, it’s crucial to balance your rod and reel. A well-balanced setup reduces fatigue and improves casting accuracy. When pairing a rod with a reel, make sure the weight of the reel complements the rod’s weight and action. Holding the rod and reel together before purchasing can help you assess the balance and feel.
Consider Your Fishing Environment and Target Species
The type of lake and the species of fish you plan to target should heavily influence your choice of rod and reel.
- Shallow Lakes and Small Fish: For shallow lakes with smaller fish like panfish or trout, a light spinning rod with a matching reel is ideal. A shorter rod with light power and a medium-action spinning reel will provide the necessary sensitivity and control.
- Deep Lakes and Larger Fish: In deeper lakes or when targeting larger fish like bass, walleye, or pike, opt for a medium to heavy power rod with fast action. Pair it with a baitcasting or spinning reel with a higher gear ratio and adequate line capacity.
Factor in Your Experience Level and Budget
Your experience level and budget should also guide your decision-making process. Beginners may want to start with a spinning rod and reel combo, which is more affordable and easier to use. As you gain experience, you can invest in specialised rods and reels that match your specific fishing preferences.
- Beginner: A medium-action spinning rod and reel combo is a great starting point. Look for affordable options that offer durability and ease of use.
- Intermediate: As you gain experience, you may want to explore baitcasting reels and rods with specific actions and powers suited to your preferred fishing techniques.
- Advanced: Experienced anglers often build a collection of rods and reels tailored to different fishing scenarios. Investing in high-quality equipment that offers precision, sensitivity, and durability is essential for serious lake fishing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fishing rod and reel for lake fishing involves understanding the different types of rods and reels, their materials, and how they match your fishing style, environment, and target species.
The main thing to remember when purchasing a rod is to buy what you are comfortable with. When looking for fishing equipment, look at your local stockist or look in the paper. There are always people retiring who want to sell their gear at a fraction of new.
Considering these factors, you can select a setup that enhances your fishing experience, increases your chances of success, and provides long-lasting enjoyment on the water.