Choices in Rod and Reel Combos
Regardless whether you’re a beginning angler or a seasoned pro, having the right equipment can make the difference in having a successful fishing expedition. No matter what type of fishing you prefer, rod and reel combos are assembled by experts in the field saving you time and money on assembling your own. Available for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, these fishing combos can be broken down into several basic types, some of which include:
Baitcasting Combos
Baitcasting rod and reel combos are recognized for a number of benefits that include greater control, fewer tangles and better performance with heavier line than some other options. In Saltwater applications, larger Baitcasting reels are paired with longer rods to obtain maximum distance. Conversely, freshwater rod combos tend to be more compact for greater accuracy when pursuing fish in deeper cover.
Spinning Combos
Spinning rod and reel combos are often valued for increased sensitivity and accuracy in a variety of conditions. Using a configuration that positions the fishing reel and guides along the bottom of the pole, spinning rod combos at Dick's Sporting Goods range in length from just under five feet up to ten feet. For saltwater, longer spinning rods with extended handles are often paired with oversized reels to achieve greater distance. Freshwater rod and reel combos differ significantly, since extended distance is not always required.
What to Look For in Fishing Combos
Because every angler is unique, focusing on a few key considerations can help simplify the selection process:
Construction
Fishing Rods - An important part of any package, the fishing rod should be constructed using materials that will affect the rod’s action in a way that will fit your experience level and the type of fish you looking to catch. The two most popular include:
- Fiberglass - A durable material, fiberglass is a good all-around material with average strength and weight. It can handle fish in a range of sizes.
- Graphite - Offering superior strength and weight, graphite fishing rods are preferred by advanced anglers because they are versatile performers that provide an excellent fighting power to land fighting fish.
Fishing Reels - The primary mechanism used to dispense and retrieve fishing line, the fishing reel is of equal importance to rod and reel combos.
- Reel Body - Often referred to as a "reel housing", the reel body is the frame on which all other components are mounted is available in several different materials including aluminum and graphite. Aluminum is stronger and preferred by many, however graphite is lighter and has many corrosion resistant qualities.
- Gear Ratio - Referring to the speed at which the fishing line can be retrieved, the gear ratio refers to how many revolutions the spool makes with each turn of the reel handle. Generally speaking a ratio of 4:1 is considered slow while a 6:1 is fast.
Expert Advice
Searching for rod & reel combos can take some time, however find the right match for your level of experience and skill will dramatically improve your level of success. However to help you find the perfect combination, consider these tips:
- Consider a skirted spool for saltwater reels for greater distance and fewer tangles
- Generally, the more ball bearings a reel has the more smoothly It will perform
- Look for Balance: A good rod & reel combo should feel balanced and easy to maneuver
