When you start saltwater fishing, you realize the importance of a good fishing rod. There are many different aspects to fishing rods, and they are not all created equal. Some are built for accuracy while others are built for strength. The type of fish you are after is going to be the deciding factor in what type of rod that you want. However, it is important that you know the different variables in a saltwater fishing rod. Here are just a few different aspects of saltwater fishing rods that you need to know about.

Action

The primary factor in the performance of a rod is the action. This is how far down the rod, starting at the tip, the bend in the rod extends. So if you have a fast action rod, the flex does not go very far down the rod. These rods are generally used when casting accuracy is absolutely necessary. A fast action rod is also what you want to use when fishing with larger bait and lures. A medium to slow action is primarily used to increase the distance of casting. Slower action rods are great for live bait and smaller lures and bait.

Power Factor

When you are going to be fishing for large fish, heavy lines are absolutely necessary. Heavy rods are used to accommodate lines and are also very common for trolling for marlin, tuna, swordfish, and other large fish. Light rods are used to for light lines. These different rods are used for seatrout, red drum, striped bass, bonito, schoolie, and other small fish. There is really not a rod that is perfect for every type of fish. Make sure that you have the right power factor when fishing for small or large fish.

Length

You would not want an extremely long fishing rod on a small boat, but there is much more application to the length of your fishing rod. If you want to increase the distance of your cast, go for a longer rod. If you are looking to increase your leverage, you will want to go with a shorter rod. Trolling and jigging requires power over casting distance, and so a shorter rod would be the wise choice.

You are going to have to put a lot of thought into the rod that you buy, and will most likely have to have a collection of rods to give you the range to fish all species. Check out companies like Spiderking Rod Holders as you consider fishing equipment.