Trout-catching spinning rods or drop shot rods should come with a sturdy yet palm-hugging handle, preferably made from EVA foam or natural cork. Other than the handle, the length of the rod and the materials are vital to make the right choice for a good dropshot rod.
How to Select the Right Fishing Rod Length?
Any rod in the range of 6’6″ and 7′ in length is considered the best drop-shot rod. Choose the rod length that will allow you to have control. Finding the right rod will also depend on your fishing location, casting distance, etc.
In general, longer rods are fitter for casting greater lengths; on the other hand, shorter rods offer more accuracy.
Comparing Rod Materials: Graphite vs. Fiberglass vs. Composite
Generally, rods are made of graphite, fiberglass, or composite, the most common rod materials. Graphite is a strong material that’s both stiff and super light. Spinning poles made of graphite are super sensitive and very durable.
For one, a spinning rod made of fiberglass is somewhat heavier and more affordable than graphite rods. Sensitivity-wise, these rods are not as sensitive nor as stiff as graphite rods, but they can be quite strong, making them an essential gear for any angler.
Composite rods also deliver nice power and are perfect as fishing rods to use in windy weather and large streams. The best drop shot rod made of composite should be able to withstand a sizable steelhead, a musky, or a big bass.
The Pros and Cons of Using Fiberglass Fishing Rods
Pros
- Durable
- Affordable
- Flexible
Cons
- Heavier
- Slower action
The Pros and Cons of Using Graphite Rods
Pros
- Amazing sensitivity
- Lightweight
- Accurate
Cons
- Rigid
- Most expensive
The Pros and Cons of Using Composite Rods
Pros
- Speed/action can be tweaked
- Flexible
- Versatile
Cons
- Expensive
- Lack in accuracy
Action Types in Fishing rods: Slow, Medium, and Fast Explained
Inexperienced anglers might have a hard time distinguishing between power and action in rods, which is totally understandable. The rod’s action depicts where the bend of the rod tip will start on the rod blanks when you weigh the line.
Which action type of fishing rod you choose depends on the finesse techniques you wish to employ. A fast-action rod typically tends to bend on the higher part of the blank. A moderate-action rod (a medium-action rod) will start to bend lower toward the mid-section of the rod and the reel seat. A slow-action rod will begin to bend in the lower third of the rod.
When to Use Fast (Heavy) Action Fishing Rods?
Fast-action rods are a superb choice for short to long-distance casting, assuming you use single hooks for worms and jigs. It’s also best used for moving the lure fast when you get a bite.
These rods are used to target many species including largemouth bass, stripper, and pike. In general, fast action rods work best in deeper waters when targeting stronger and deeper predators.
When to Use Medium Action Rods?
Medium or medium-heavy action delivers solid hook power and are often a great choice for spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, and bladed jigs on treble hooks to create so-called reaction bites.
Whenever you need to retrieve the line fast and straightforward, medium-power action rods will do the trick. These rods deliver more of a casting distance without sacrificing the hook-setting power.
When to Use Slow (Light) Action Rods?
Slow-actioned rods are your typical fishing rods that fully bend from the rod tip to the handle and reel seat. There are some slow (light) action that even bend through the grip, which can feel a bit unorthodox even to seasoned anglers.
Slow-action rods are your go-to choice if you enjoy fishing with more lure weight. The best rod for slow action will work great with any lures or sinkers. Light power will offer a highly enjoyable angling experience if you use braided lines.
Determining the Appropriate Rod Power for Fishing
Getting a medium light or a medium power-rated rod for drop shots is vital if you use a line in the 6 to 12 lbs range. The power feature of a rod blank determines the amount of lure weight you can use to achieve optimal performance.
Lighter fishing techniques, like fly, spinning, or plug tackle, work best with lighter rods. If you choose a super lightweight rod, you are rising catching bass since the pod’s power will not correlate to the typical bass strikes.
Understanding the Significance of Rod Markings and Specifications
Quality-made rods will usually print three sets of numbers on the rod blank. If you’ve had St Croix or KastKing spinning poles before, you have probably noticed three of four numbers in the first set — these usually mark the rod length and type.
The second set of markings defines the line, and the third marks the optimal lure weight. You can also find specifications about the line’s breaking strain, as well as which lure sizes or baits to choose. Knowing these specs and understanding the markings will help you pick the best drop shot rod for your needs.
The Importance of Selecting the Right Weight Class for Your Fishing Rod
If you prefer bass fishing, you should be very careful to find the proper lure. If you fish with a lure that’s too light, you may experience your rod not loading as it should, and your cast will be shorter.
On the other hand, if the weight on the rod is too heavy, the rod will load excessively, and you’ll end up throwing a dull cast. With the right lure weight, you are giving your rod the best tools to work with, so you can experience its optimal performance.
The weight class of a rod is usually measured by the maximum recommended weight, and it’s marked on the rod in either pounds or kilograms.
