I get asked this quite a bit actually. How does rod length really effect casting distance, and specifically ultralight bass fishing? I don't always have an answer, it depends on the time of the day really. But there are a few key items you should think about when you are on the market for a new rod.
Some fishermen argue that having a rod in the shorter ranges, say 4'6", or 5'0" lineup, allow you to toss your lures a farther distance. This is something that shows to me, that these fishermen haven't used a long rod in ultralight fishing before.
The shorter fishing rods are great for fishing in areas that are heavily covered by overhanging trees, or other debris that you could easily get your lures into. The short fishing rod provides great accuracy once you practice enough with it, to get the hang of it. Shorter rods do decrease your casting distance however, as they will throw a bait the shortest distance out of all of the rods.
Ultralight fishing rods in the lengths of 5 1/2 foot to 6 foot are found in the middle when thinking about balance. The tip still allows good casting distance, while the backbone gives plenty of strength for fighting the fish.
You don't sacrifice much accuracy with this length, you can still use it as a light action flipping stick, or pitching stick for 1/4oz jigs in tight places. This is a technique for smaller fish on ultralight gear however, use bigger gear for the bigger fish locked into the muck!
This length of rod is considered general use, and most people can get by using a 6 footer. They still give you good accuracy, and lure placement, but you must practice a little longer to achieve the same accuracy that you would with a 4 1/2 footer. The difference is minor, but it does take some adjusting.
Rods that are 6'5" or longer are great for long casting distance in open areas. If it is windy outside, you best grab the long rod, with a topwater on it, and sling that joker as far as you can. You can get the small baits flying so good, that they almost go out of sight!
Since we talk about distance, we have to talk about accuracy. These rods major downfall is casting accuracy, but when you can unload a 100 yard spool, how accurate can you really be? - 31509
Some fishermen argue that having a rod in the shorter ranges, say 4'6", or 5'0" lineup, allow you to toss your lures a farther distance. This is something that shows to me, that these fishermen haven't used a long rod in ultralight fishing before.
The shorter fishing rods are great for fishing in areas that are heavily covered by overhanging trees, or other debris that you could easily get your lures into. The short fishing rod provides great accuracy once you practice enough with it, to get the hang of it. Shorter rods do decrease your casting distance however, as they will throw a bait the shortest distance out of all of the rods.
Ultralight fishing rods in the lengths of 5 1/2 foot to 6 foot are found in the middle when thinking about balance. The tip still allows good casting distance, while the backbone gives plenty of strength for fighting the fish.
You don't sacrifice much accuracy with this length, you can still use it as a light action flipping stick, or pitching stick for 1/4oz jigs in tight places. This is a technique for smaller fish on ultralight gear however, use bigger gear for the bigger fish locked into the muck!
This length of rod is considered general use, and most people can get by using a 6 footer. They still give you good accuracy, and lure placement, but you must practice a little longer to achieve the same accuracy that you would with a 4 1/2 footer. The difference is minor, but it does take some adjusting.
Rods that are 6'5" or longer are great for long casting distance in open areas. If it is windy outside, you best grab the long rod, with a topwater on it, and sling that joker as far as you can. You can get the small baits flying so good, that they almost go out of sight!
Since we talk about distance, we have to talk about accuracy. These rods major downfall is casting accuracy, but when you can unload a 100 yard spool, how accurate can you really be? - 31509
About the Author:
If you are looking for someone who is good at what they do, Zyna Sahmine is that person. He has been an ultralight bass fishing angler for a long time now, over 5 years. He helps run the show at ultralight-fishing.com and also helps develop their online store. Click Here to see the website.
