There’s nothing quite like the thrill of reeling in a big catch. Fishing is one of the most relaxing and rewarding outdoor activities, which is why more and more people are picking up the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, having the right fishing gear can make all the difference while on the water, waiting for the next bite.
Out of all the fishing supplies, a fishing rod and reel are foundational to a successful setup, as each plays a crucial role in casting a line and reeling in a fish on the hook. The same can be said for rod and reel combos, which offer both components in one convenient package.
Understanding How Fishing Rods and Reels Work
Fishing rods and reels are essential tools that provide anglers with the control and precision they need to land a trophy catch. Here’s a breakdown of how each component functions:
Fishing Rod Explained
The rod is a long, sturdy pole designed to hold the fishing line and provide leverage during casting and for fighting fish on the line. The rod’s flexibility allows it to bend, absorbing the force of the fish’s movements. This helps prevent the line from breaking under pressure while giving anglers better control when reeling in a potential catch.
As fish pull on the line, the rod will give. A fishing rod’s power, which ranges from light to heavy, determines how much force it can handle before bending or breaking. The heavier the rod’s power, the more force it can endure.
Fishing Reel Explained
The fishing reel is mounted on the rod and is responsible for holding, releasing and retrieving the fishing line. The reel’s spool holds the fishing line, storing it neatly when not in use. The cylindrical-shaped spool rotates during casting and line retrieval, allowing the line to be fed in and out without getting tangled.
Once there’s a fish on the line, the reel’s drag system allows the line to feed slowly while the angler maintains control. If a fish pulls hard, the drag system allows the line to gradually come off the reel without snapping, acting as a friction system. This provides the fisherman time to tire out the fish for an easier catch. The amount of tension applied can be adjusted, enabling anglers to fine-tune the pressure based on the size and fighting strength of the targeted fish.
Comparing Options
Fishing rods and reels come in various types, each designed to suit specific fishing techniques, conditions and species of fish. Knowing your options is key to choosing your ideal fishing rod and reel, so consider the following:
Types of Fishing Rods
Fishing rods are available in various materials, such as fiberglass and carbon. The material the rod is made of affects its strength, flexibility, sensitivity and weight. All these factors influence performance out on the water. There are also several rod types for specific purposes, including:
Casting Rods
Casting rods are typically stiffer compared to other types of rods, making them ideal for anglers targeting larger fish. This type of rod can be used for fishing in freshwater or saltwater. It is used to cast heavy lures, baitcasting and bottom fishing. Casting rods are often more rigid, making them less forgiving for beginner fishermen.
Spinning Rods
Spinning rods are lighter and are used in conjunction with spinning reels, which are mounted below the rod. They are easier to use than more advanced rods, which is why they are often the preferred choice for beginners or anglers with less experience. Spinning rods are meant for freshwater fishing and can be used to target smaller saltwater species. Smaller lures, live bait and artificial flies are all compatible with spinning rods.
Fly Rods
Fly rods are flexible fishing rods that typically range in length from 7’ to 10’. They are meant for casting fly fishing lines, which is why they are equipped with specialized guides. The design of a fly rod allows for precise casting in rivers, streams or lakes. This type of rod is intended for fly fishing in freshwater, going after species such as trout, bass and salmon. While you can use them in saltwater, some fly rods are much more susceptible to corrosion, and they typically aren’t strong enough to reel in a heavier catch, such as bonefish and tarpon. If you plan to fly fish in saltwater, ensure the rod is designed to handle that environment.
Ice Fishing Rods
Ice fishing rods are specifically designed for ice fishing, where anglers drop their line through a hole in the ice. This type of rod is shorter, typically two to five feet long, and has a stiffer action to help detect the lightest of bites through the ice. Because of their intended purpose, ice fishing rods are built to withstand extreme cold and harsh conditions.
Types of Fishing Reels
Whether you are an ambidextrous angler or have a freshwater or saltwater excursion in your future, the type of reel you have matters. Find the best one for the type of fishing you’ll be doing with options such as:
Baitcasting Reels
Baitcasting reels are constructed with a rotating spool that mounts on the top of the rod. The reel’s design, which includes a mechanical brake system that helps control line release and prevents backlash, allows for precise casting. Baitcasting reels are ideal for heavier lures or baits, typically used for targeting larger fish in freshwater and saltwater environments.
Spinning Reels
Spinning reels are one of the most common and versatile types, making them the recommended choice for beginners and experts alike. The reel sits underneath the rod, and the line is guided onto the spool by a rotor, which moves back and forth. For long-distance or precision casting, the spinning reel falls short compared to baitcasting reels.
Fly Fishing Reels
Fly fishing reels are specifically designed to meet the unique demands and techniques of the sport. They function similarly to other reels, and some of the most common types are:
- Click-pawl: Made with a mechanical clicker (the pawl), this type offers a slow release of the line. It also has a braking system, which is easy to activate by applying pressure to the reel frame, usually with the thumb, fingertips or palm of the hand. Because click-pawl reels are lightweight, they are best for smaller species in freshwater locations.
- Disc-drag: The drag system on the reel utilizes compressed washers, causing friction that creates tension on the line. This type is best suited for angling larger species, as they provide flexibility and help you maintain control.
- Single-action: Sometimes called single-retrieve, this type offers a 1:1 ratio, which means that one handle turn equates to the spool turning completely. This makes single-action reels best for fly fishing for smaller species.
Ice Fishing Reels
Ice fishing reels are generally smaller and more compact than others. Because they are specifically designed for ice fishing in cold temperatures, they feature a high gear ratio for easier line retrieval in frigid conditions.
Fishing Rod and Reel Combos
For anglers who prefer not to purchase a rod and reel separately, fishing rod and reel combos are pre-matched sets designed to work together seamlessly. Rod and reels are paired with each other in terms of size, balance and functionality to create an effective fishing foundation, setting up anglers for success.
The benefits of opting for a rod and reel combo include:
- Convenience: Choosing a combo over purchasing fishing components individually saves time, allowing anglers to get out and cast their reels sooner.
- Compatibility: In a combo set, the rod and reel are designed to complement each other for more effective casting and reeling.
- Ease for beginners: Rod and reel combos offer an easy way for beginners to enjoy fishing, taking the guesswork out of which options work best with one another.
- Balanced setup: Rod and reel combos take into consideration balance and weight, making the entire setup feel more comfortable in the hand.
As with individual rods and reels, combos come in various types for different fishing applications. Baitcast combos pair a baitcasting reel with a casting rod, offering greater precision and control for targeting larger fish with heavier lures. Meanwhile, spinning combos feature a spinning reel with a spinning rod, which is ideal for a wide variety of fishing styles. If you’re going fly or ice fishing, be sure to look for a combo made for the unique conditions you’ll be facing.
Finding All Your Fishing Essentials at Tractor Supply
When it comes to fishing, one of the most important decisions for an angler is choosing a fishing rod and reel. The choice you make will significantly impact your overall experience and could be the difference between a successful and unsuccessful outing. When choosing a rod or reel, consider your fishing style, the types of fish you plan to target and your experience level.
Whether you’re a veteran angler in need of an upgrade or someone looking to get out on the water for the first time, our inventory features the latest fishing gear, including rods and reels. In addition, we offer various other fishing tools and essentials, such as chest waders, fishing lures, fishing nets and more. To prepare your next fishing trip during Life Out Here, visit your local Tractor Supply store today or shop online.