Buying a New Rod and Reel Soon?
Here's a Tip:
In choosing a rod and reel to be used in combination, make sure that when
secured together they have a balanced feel in your hand. Both your rod and reel
should be rated for the same line and lure weights. This assures that you can
cast your lure the farthest and have the maximum sensitivity in feeling a fish
bite. Now that you have the proper combination of rod, reel and line, make sure
that the knot you use to secure your hook, swivel or lure is strong enough to
withstand the shock of a fish strike.
SPIN CASTING:
Spinning rods and reels are very popular. They are
not expensive, allow for casting of light lures, and are easy to use. The first
two or three line guides on a spinning rod are large, because the line "billows"
off the end of the reel spool during the cast. To cast with a spinning reel, you
open the wire "bail" that wraps line around the spool, holding the line with
your index finger. Release the line as you move the rod forward and with a
little practice you're casting like a champ. Nylon monofilament line of 6- to
12-pound test works best on most spinning reels.
SPINNING REEL:Like a spinning
reel, the spin-casting reel has a stationary spool, with line leaving and
returning at one end of that spool. But the spool on the spin-casting reel is
enclosed, so you can't see it. The line is released by use of a thumb-button at
the back of the reel.
BAIT CASTING:These reels differ greatly from both spinning and
spin-cast reels because the spool sits perpendicular (cross-ways) to the rod
rather than parallel to it. Because the spool moves during casting and
retrieving, these reels are often called revolving-spool reels. Bait-casting
tackle requires more practice, patience and skill than both spinning and
spin-casting tackle, but once mastered, allows for pin-point casting accuracy
and excellent line control when fishing and playing fish.
FLY CASTING:
As mentioned earlier, artificial flies are very
light, making
them virtually impossible to cast with most rods and reels. So fly casters use a
special kind of line and a certain kind of rod that allow even the smallest of
flies to be cast long distances. The line itself provides the casting weight,
and the rod's size and flexibility are matched to the line's weight for best
casting results. Fly-fishing line is thicker and more visible than other types
of fishing line, so fly anglers use several feet of monofilament or other
low-visibility material as a "leader" between the fly and the fly line.
