Guide to choosing the right bass rod.

[Kevin]

TECHNIQUE-SPECIFIC ROD SUGGESTIONS


ACTION

The action of a rod is a term used to describe the flexibility or stiffness that it exhibits.

Extra Fast -- This style of rod will bend very little, only in the upper tip. A rod of this type is ideal for fishing heavy cover -- slop, docks or wood -- when getting the fish up and away from cover is paramount to your success. The faster the action, the more pressure you can put on a bass.

Fast Action -- A fast action rod will bend in the upper 25 to 30%. They provide both power and flex, which is essential when throwing spinnerbaits, soft sticks, jerkbaits and topwaters.

Moderate Action -- These rods will bend near the middle. A moderate action will also cast lures easier than a fast or extra-fast action, due in part to the rod loading. Ideal for light line and finesse tactics.
Matching each rod to the technique for which it's best suited will make throwing baits and fighting fish much more efficient. Below are some rod suggestions for some of the most widely used bass fishing tactics.

Flipping and Pitching
Most manufacturers have a flipping stick in their lineup. It is easily recognizable as it telescopes out to its full length. The added length will allow you to pitch and flip more easily, as well as winch fish in from heavy cover.

    * Length - 7'6"
    * Action - Fast
    * Power - Heavy
    * Style - Casting

Buzzbaits and Spinnerbaits
A seven-foot baitcast rod is an ideal choice here, as it will provide better casting distance, leverage and the ability to pick up line quickly.

    * Length - 7'
    * Action - Fast
    * Power - Medium/Heavy
    * Style - Casting

Topwaters
Go with a six-and-a-half foot rod in either spinning or baitcast style, depending on the size of lures you're tossing.

    * Length - 6'6"
    * Action - Moderate
    * Power - Medium
    * Style - Casting or Spinning

Frogs and Toads
You will need power and backbone when fishing the slop with these topwater baits. Some anglers are leaning toward the longer rods for better casts and horsing fish.

    * Length - 7' to 7'6"
    * Action - Fast
    * Power - Heavy
    * Style - Casting

Crankbaits
Turn to a composite rod for cranks, as it will provide better hooksets.

    * Length - 7'
    * Action - Fast
    * Power - Medium to Medium Heavy
    * Style - Casting

Drop Shot/Shaky Head
Although a baitcast rod can be used for dropshotting purposes, a spinning rod gives a bit more versatility to this light-line technique.

    * Length - 6'10"
    * Action - Extra Fast
    * Power - Medium Light to Medium
    * Style - Spinning

Dock Skipping
A relatively new technique that is taking the bassin' world by storm. Spinning equipment gives the angler better casting control for pin-point accuracy.

    * Length - 6'0"
    * Action - Fast
    * Power - Medium Heavy
    * Style - Spinning



Article courtesy of BassPro.com