When I used to go into a sporting goods store to purchase a fishing rod I was usually overwhelmed and somewhat confused (and still am sometimes) by the vast array of equipment. It sort of reminded me of the creation story in Genesis. At first there was all this 'stuff' that was just out there, without form and void. There was a need for someone to put it in order and make sense of it all. That's the way it can be for many beginner fishermen and sometimes for those who have been fishing a while but want to step it up a notch. So where do we start. The best thing is to go back to the beginning - start with the basics.

For the sake of simplicity let's narrow our choices down to three basic types of fishing gear for the sports fisherman - spinning rods and reels, bait casting rods and reels and fly fishing rods and reels. Fly fishing we'll leave for now (even thought it's my favourite fishing style). That leaves us with spinning gear and baitcasting outfits. These two setups are the most common.

Now let me speak in generalities, for there are far too many specifics to address. Generally speaking spinning rods and reels are less expensive and easier to use than baitcasters. In a short time most people including children can handle a spinning rod and reel. With a little practice accuracy will come and mistakes made casting a spinning rod are usually forgivable. With baitcasters an error in technique can end up with the line becoming a tangled mess on the reel. Spinning outfits (usually) are better suited to handle lighter lures and work better for short distance casting or casting under docks or overhanging branches where a light touch is needed. Jigging (for walleye in particular) is done almost exclusively on spinning gear.

Look on the rod near the handle and you should find a description of the material the rod is made of, line sizes and lure weights that are best handled by that particular rod, and the action - light, medium, or heavy. A medium action, 6ft or 6.5ft spinning rod with a suitable reel is a good place to start as an all around fishing outfit. This setup can handle many species of fish and situations.

Select a rod with a cork handle. Cork handles are usually more endurable and comfortable than other materials and I believe, look better. Look for a cork handle that has small compact particles as opposed to cheaper cork that has larger particles with greater spaces or holes in it. Graphite rods (generally) are lighter and stronger. Look for high modulus graphite - it is better quality and more flexible. Graphite, fibreglass composites can be a little cheaper and are also a good choice. Don't fall into the trap that more is better. You do not have to spend a small fortune on good fishing gear. I have caught pike over 20 lbs. on spinning rods that cost less than $50.00. You can also find decent spinning reels that fall in the same price bracket.

A common mistake is buying too large or too small a reel. If you plan to be casting a lot you want your equipment to be as light as possible but still able to handle the fish you plan to catch. Try a few rod and reel combinations in the store to determine a good balance. When you put it all together the rod tip should not feel heavy nor should the reel overwhelm the rod. See what feels good to you. Sometimes shops offer rod/reel combos where the rod and reel are already matched. Usually the manufacturer has put some thought into the setup. These can be a good bet and save you some guess work.

Baitcasting outfits are probably used by the pros (depending on what they are fishing for) more often than spinning reels. Watch any bass fishing show on TV and you will likely see a baitcasting rod being used. Bait casting reels are stronger (again, generally speaking) than spinning reels. They also eliminate some of the line twisting problems encountered with spinning reels. This makes baitcasting gear a better choice for trolling. The difficulty for most people comes in casting one these outfits. They do take a little more practice but it is worth it in the end. Again baitcasters are a sturdy outfit and handle large lures such as jerkbaits, large spinnerbaits and deep diver type baits much more efficiently than spinning gear.

The same advice goes for baitcasting rods and reels that we outlined for spinning rods and reels. Cork handled, graphite rods will make your fishing more enjoyable and comfortable. Match your rod to the reel for balance - does it feel good? Make sure neither the rod nor the reel overwhelms the other. If you are buying reasonably good (what I call top of the middle line) equipment be prepared to pay around $75.00 to $125.00 for a baitcasting reel. Rods can vary and here again you do not need to pay a lot. Spend the extra on a good smooth casting reel.

Most fishing situations can be covered with one or two fishing outfits (but don't tell my wife). A good medium action spinning rod and reel and possibly a medium heavy action baitcaster with a suitable reel and you are ready for anything.

One last note. Where do I go to get this stuff?? If you know what you want and feel confident with your ability to choose, go to one of the chain stores that sells sporting goods. You can get good quality and maybe a better price. Often times the people working in these places do not know a great deal more than the average person and are not always a good resource if you have questions. If in doubt go to a good sporting shop preferably one that specializes in fishing and ask questions. Just keep in mind they are in business to sell. A good shop owner will not try to sell you the most expensive tackle he has. Tell him what you hope to fish for and under what conditions and they will get you started. (Be sure to email any questions - better yet post them on the message board)

Good luck and keep the tip up!
 


Dave Tigani