Usually, when we talk about rods, we cover power, motion, length, and the kind of reel a rod fits. From a performance viewpoint, those elements are usually front stage. However, another aspect greatly influences a rod’s performance, which needs to be more discussed; many beginners need to be aware of it. What material is the rod made of?
There are several varieties of fishing rod materials; today, we will discuss the ones you are most likely to find easily.
In this article, we will review the characteristics of every material, their advantages and disadvantages, and which kind of rod material best suits you.
The Common Rod Materials
1. Bamboo
There is considerably less of a need to discuss this particular material. It is most commonly found in fishing rods that are pretty inexpensive and poles that are exquisitely created by hand. You can get pole-style rods made of bamboo in most big-box stores and general tackle shops. Although they are not used as frequently as they once were, they do offer a fishing experience that is one of a kind.
Moreover, pairing a Bamboo rod with a fish mat protects your catch and aligns with an eco-friendly fishing experience.
Pros and Cons of Bamboo
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You can choose a bamboo rod only if you like old-fashioned stick fishing. The best thing about a bamboo pole is that it’s very cheap, and every user will love its classic look.
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If you buy a cheap one, this will break easily, and you’ll only find it on pole-style rods.
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Again, it’s a niche product, and most people who buy one do so to enjoy a quiet evening fishing for crappie and bluegill.
2. Fiberglass
Often seen on less expensive rods, fibreglass is a popular contemporary material you most certainly recognise, even if you are unfamiliar with it. It doesn’t imply it lacks quality because it’s usually the chosen material for cheap rods. Also, a professionally built fibreglass rod may be a fantastic alternative.
Pros and Cons of FiberGlass
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First, it is a low-cost material. It’s less expensive to obtain and more accessible to shape into a rod without fussing over the most minor details.
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Fibreglass rods are exceptionally durable and less expensive to manufacture. These aren’t the rods that will split in two if you unintentionally hit a tree while casting.
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However, fibreglass rods are insensitive. They are whippy, and when fishing for light-biting fish, you might miss a lot of bites because your rod tip is whirling about like a 90s pickup truck CB antenna.
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High flexibility makes subtle presentations challenging, requiring overcompensation in movements, which can easily result in overdoing the lure’s intended action.
Also Read: The Pros and Cons of Different Fishing Pole Materials
3. Graphite
Graphite rods are available at prices ranging from mid-range to high-range. It has many benefits, but it also demands careful care. Also, graphite is commonly referred to as “carbon fibre” in the fishing world. If you see a “carbon fibre” rod, know it is constructed of graphite.
Pros and Cons of Graphite
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Graphite is a premium material in most cases. It has an incredible tensile strength and can bend like crazy, yet it remains exceedingly sensitive towards the end of its taper.
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The rigidity near the thicker end of the taper, along with a more sensitive tip, aids in casting to some extent.
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However, you must keep the graphite rod in pristine condition because even a minor crack in the rod might cause it to shatter easily. As a result, avoid mistreating your rod by quickly unhooking a fish, walking on it, or accidently banging it against hard surfaces.
4. Composite
Now, let’s learn about “composite” rods made using fibreglass and graphite. The materials in this rod provide a balanced combination of durability, sensitivity, and fine-tuned rod action and have the features of primary rod materials.
Pros and Cons of Composite
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Although composite rods, having a mix of fibreglass and graphite materials, are great in some ways, they are not very impressive in others.
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You may have an extremely sensitive rod that can detect minor bites, but you don’t have to be concerned about bass snapping the rod in two.
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This enables you to utilise a composite rod for practically any approach you can think of. Also, you can target a different species without worrying about whether your rod will perform well enough to be successful.
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Moreover, composite rods are difficult to manufacture; hence, they are usually unavailable at the lower end of the price range. Though you typically anticipate paying good money for one manufactured nicely, you can get several in the mid-range.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right fishing rod depends on your style, preferences, and budget. Go for composite rods if you are a beginner or seeking graphite sensitivity with added durability. Conversely, choose fibreglass rods for durability and reliability.
However, graphite is the best if you are a professional or experienced angler, focusing on subtle techniques or targeting less aggressive fish.
So, choose a fishing rod material that suits your style and meets your expectations. Don’t forget to pack the fish mat and enjoy a successful and fun fishing adventure!