Fishing Rod vs Fishing Pole: A Detailed Comparison

Most inexperienced anglers will say ‘fishing rod’ instead of ‘fishing pole’. It is not intentional;it is just that they do not know the difference. It is not a bad thing either since it seems to be common speaking in the everyday world.

However, when it comes to the debate on whether to go for rods or poles, the answer lies solely on the angler and a few factors.

Fishing Rod vs Fishing Pole

What is the difference?

Conventionally, a fishing pole is made from natural elements such as bamboo, reed, or cane.A fishing rod on the other hand is made out of traditional composite materials such as Kevlar, boron, fiberglass or graphite. It can also include a blend of all the mentioned materials.

Fishing rods explained

A rod is long and flexible. A pole or stick is attached to a line that ends in a hook. There are numerous types of rods each with its aptness for a particular kind of fishing. All types of rods have their own special features and uses.

Fly rods

These come in a broad range of sizes and shapes and are commonly used for fly-fishing. This refers to using a fly as bait while fishing. Fly rods are flexible and weigh less and this permits anglers to get the bait back and forward.

The difference between fly rods and all other types of rods is that it does not have a butt section, which means the angler can be cast freely.

Ice rods

These are similar to spinning rods but much shorter to put up for the lack of space while ice fishing. They are generally 24 to 26 inches long and they have a lesser number of eyes compared to spinning rods. Some ice rods do not even come with a reel but they have two opposite hooks mounted on the rod.

Casting rods

These are designed to give some sort of freedom to the angler. Casting rods allow anglers to position their bait accurately. There are two types of casting rods; bait and spin casting but modern rods come as just casting rods. Casting rods can handle heavier cover hence can catch heavier fish.

Spinning rods

These are more like casting rods but lighter and smaller. The major difference between the two is their usage. While it is possible to use casting reels on top of a rod, spinning reels do hang underneath. This makes it easier and more comfortable to fish and because of that, most amateur anglers prefer to use spinning rods.

Surf rods

Contrary to what the name of these rods suggests, they are not rods you can use while surfing. These rods are extremely long and allow heavy sinking. It is possible to cast the bait a long way. They resemble heavier spinning rods and are instrumental in catching sea fish.

Trolling rods

The term trolling refers to a fishing method as well. Trolling rods mainly focus on large game fish such as marlin and tuna. Generally, trolling rods are longer than all other rods. They are heavily built and fast action though their usage is minimal. You will not require this rod unless you are looking to catch huge game fish.

Also read: How to set up a Fishing Rod for Lake Fishing: Handy Tips For You

Fishing Poles

There are probably as many types of fishing poles as there are rods. However, one of the best ways break down the choices is to keep in mind where the angler will be fishing. Saltwater poles are different from freshwater poles.

Freshwater poles 

Among freshwater options, we have cane poles, crappie poles, catfish poles, and fly fishing poles. The reel and reel poles can be opened and closed. The difference is usually important to the individual angler because there are some who feel that with a closed reel, the fishing line tangles easily than with an open reel.

Fly fishing poles

These are explicitly designed for use in trout fishing. Nevertheless, they can be used to catch other kinds of fish as well. It may take a little more practice to get used to dancing the bait above the water, but many anglers find the experience worthwhile. Anglers who fly fish may enjoy tying their own flies.

Crappie and catfish poles

These are both different kinds of reel poles and rods. Catfish poles are rigid and usually made with additional support to bear the weight and fight of a big catfish. Crappie poles are more agile and smaller. Cane poles are another kind of catfish pole and do not have a reel. They are just a section of cane with a fishing line attached.

Saltwater poles 

Just like freshwater poles, these poles can be categorized severally. Many anglers separate saltwater poles by surf, offshore, inshore and location. The biggest difference in these categories is the type and weight of fish each pole is designed to catch.

Surf poles

Inshore fishing is done in shallow water while deep or offshore fishing requires poles that are significantly larger and require extra support. Surf fishing is unique because the pole used must be thin and long. It must also be flexible enough to cast beyond the waves to where fish can be found.

The catch

Modern poles are now made out of material such as graphite, which is much stronger compared fiberglass or conventional cane poles. Graphite is an ideal choice since it is less likely to break. Anglers should also take into account the weight of a pole because in the end, lighter is usually better after a busy and engaging day of fishing.

Which is better?

Now that we have established the difference between rods andpoles, the simple question of which one is better arises. From the description, you can tell that the two are quite similar and they are both used to catch fish.

To sum it all up

Irrespective of whether you are an amateur or professional angler, one thing remains the same and that is you require quality-fishing equipment. There are various types of poles and rods you can use to fish and the choice can be difficult to make.

However, if you consider several factors like what kind of fish you expect to harvest or where you are going to do you fishing, you will be able to make the right choice.

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