Fishing Rod Buying Guide - How to Buy Fishing Rods

• Test the grip of the Fishing Rod. Make sure that its handle fits comfortably on your palm.


• Choose the length of the Fishing Rod. Shorter Fishing Rods with lengths of 4 ½ to 6 feet will work well if you will use small Fishing Baits and if you are after small fish such as crappie and perch. Longer Fishing Rods, 6 ½ feet long or more, are for bigger Fishing Baits, bigger fish, and longer casting distance.


• Check its flexibility. Hold the Fishing Rod and move it as if you are casting, flip the end, then watch its tip for any movement.


• Test its sensitivity. Ask someone, a salesperson for instance, to put the tip of the Fishing Rod against his/her adam's apple or throat part and speak in a low, modulated voice. If that Fishing Rod has a good sensitivity, you should feel vibrations in your hand on the butt end of the Fishing Rod. Check a couple or more Fishing Rods for their sensitivity so you can narrow down your choices. Take note that a Fishing Rod with better sensitivity will create more hook-ups.


• Most tackle shops or sporting goods have experts who can help you in choosing the appropriate one. Think about the frequency of your Fishing trips, the type of water, and the kind of fish you are after, and ask the experts for advice.


• If you decide to buy a used Fishing Rod, make sure that there are no hairline cracks on the pole. For the test on flexibility, pay attention to any cracking sounds from the tip of the pole.