Tristen Turley
Fishing rods are some of the most important pieces of equipment in your boat. However, they’re more than just poles; they’re tools that are built for a specific purpose, and that is to withstand the repetitive abuse that every element of fishing entails. I look at my rods as different tools, each built with specific functions that make me perform more efficiently and effectively. Rods come in many different sizes, shapes, and can vary dramatically in price, so finding the right rod can be overwhelming at times.
Before I really got into fishing, I thought every rod was the same. It never crossed my mind that there are rods specifically designed for a certain bait or use. For example, I fish with Favorite Rods due to the quality and design of every rod. Each rod is engineered to optimize performance while fishing.
Each of my rods have a certain characteristic that makes them more suitable to throw particular baits. For instance, when I want to flip a jig or a Texas rig, I choose a rod that has a stout backbone to yank those fish from cover, but I also want a rod with a soft tip to feel the contours of the bottom and each bite. On the other hand, I would want a completely different rod if I was going to throw a square bill; maybe something that absorbed a bit more shock to reduce snags as I grind my bait over rocks and logs.
There are thousands of rods out there and any pole can catch a fish, but for those of you who want to get serious about fishing, try different rods and learn when and how you use them. I assure you it will give you a whole new perspective on fishing and your gear. Being confident in your gear is crucial in winning tournaments or even just fishing for fun. You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to find the right rod, but experiment with different lengths, action types, etc. and see what rod is the most effective for you.
