Fishing Pole vs Fishing Rod: What’s the Difference?
Many people still think that they both are the same thing. Interestingly, even some trollers (not all of them) think that the difference between the two is negligible. If you have spent much time around trollers then chances are you’ve heard them talk about fishing poles and fishing rods. However, some technical differences which distinguish a pole from a rod. Today we’re here to share some of those differences.
Fishing Pole
In the case of fishing poles, the major distinguishing feature is that they are made from natural materials. Some common materials used for making fishing poles are cane, wood, bamboo, reeds etc. Poles have no guides, bells, eyes, or whistles and are the original fishing tools. A tube at the end to attach an elastic for catching a fish is the simple feature of poles.
To use a fishing pole, one simply guides it out over the specific part of water they want to cover, and then lowers their lure or bait down. It allows a good precision as one can easily move past any reed or blockage and get their bait exactly where they want it. Many folks who are professional in fishing can make the perfect cast every time that enters the water with minimal splash. So, in this situation, the fishing pole eliminates the giant splash of the lure as you simply move it out of the water and then ease it in. This is a stealthier way of approaching if the fish are spooky.
Advantage of fishing pole:
The main advantage of fishing poles as compared to fishing rods is that they can present a bait or lure in a much more precise way and in a stealthy fashion.
Disadvantages of fishing pole
As compared to a rod there are many disadvantages with a fishing pole. One of them is unwieldy i.e, it goes hand in hand with a lack of mobility, but the longer fishing poles out there can be too difficult to wield.
Types of Fishing Poles
Freshwater poles
Freshwater poles are typically made up of reeds or canes. These poles feature a reel so that trollers can use it for opening and closing the pole. Forms of freshwater poles are fly-fishing, crappie poles and catfish. These poles are designed for catching each specific type of species. So from next time do some research before buying a pole to make sure you will get one that helps to catch your favourite fish.
Saltwater Poles
These poles are specifically designed to be used in oceans, and breaker areas on the coast. Just like freshwater poles, saltwater poles come in a variety of designs specifically for each species. But the significant distinguishing feature when it comes to saltwater pole’s is weight capacity. If you are looking to reel in a 100 or more pounder then you will want to make sure to choose the proper pole.
Fishing Rod
Fishing rods on the other hand are a more advanced tool that is made from conventional materials like graphite, kevlar and fibreglass. Much more popular among trollers today, rods usually feature eyes and guides to help trollers to improve performance and efficiency.
Advantages of using fishing rods
Using a customary rod and reel setup has many plus points over less viable fishing poles. These include; increased casting distance, coming up with a wider range of available presentations and in search of fish, its ability to cover water in a very short time.
Disadvantages of using fishing rods
There are a few disadvantages to fishing rods. For beginners, they are usually a less accurate way to present lures or bait than fishing poles. In this, there are more things to go wrong, and more appliances (such as reels) to upkeep because they have more equipment and parts.
Different Types of Fishing Rods
Casting Rods
Casting rods allows trollers to cast very accurately. These are perfect for serious or professional anglers. Casting rods are pretty heavy which allows trollers to catch big fishes, and also offers a lot of freedom and versatility.
Spinning Rods
Spinning rods are very light in weight, smaller, comfortable to fish and easy to handle as compared to casting rods. The reels of spinning rods hang underneath the rod while in the case of casting rods, reels sit on top which makes it easier and more accessible to fish, especially if you are new in this field.
Trolling Rods
These types of rods are typically booked for large game fish and are best used when you’re looking forward to reeling in a true giant. This type of rod is longer, heavier and pretty faster than any other rods because they have to be if they’re looking forward to catching these giants.
Of course, this is not a large list of the types of fishing rods available, but it is an overview of some of the most popular types of fishing rods in the world.
Which One Should I Use? A Pole or a Rod?
Due to innovative designs and great features, no doubt the fishing rods are the most popular option than fishing poles. You should go for a rod if you’re a beginner or fishing 1st time. However, some trollers have been raised on fishing poles rather than fishing rods, and swear by them. But if you’re professional or experienced enough, then there can be a great way to bring home some great and memorable catches.
What Fishing Apparel Should I Wear?
On any fishing trip, it’s very important to wear good, comfortable and protective fishing apparel when you are looking forward to spending many hours on the water in heat, winter, or rain. The fishing apparel you choose ultimately affects your health and performance. Features of long sleeve fishing shirts should have moisture soaking, UV protection, anti-odour, quickly dryable, and ventilated. You must also have fishing pants with many deep pockets, moisture sucking, 4-way stretch, UV protection, quickly dryable and stain-resistant fabrics. Protection from the sun is extremely important, especially if you are fishing frequently and spend many hours in the daytime.