Everyone likes
to talk about
rod "action". The action of the rod translates into how much of the blank flexes.
Typically, rod actions are described as slow, medium, fast and extra-fast.
For
instance, an "extra fast" action rod is one where only the tip end of the rod
flexes, while a "fast" action rod flexes in the upper third of the blank. These
are great for fishing jigs and worms because you don't want the rod to flex too
much - potentially giving a fish enough slack line to get away. Conversely, a "slow''
action rod flexes with a parabolic action, in the top three-fourths of the rod.
These
are great for crankbaits, since the blank "gives" somewhat to slow down the reaction
time, giving the fish more time to take the bait.
I see people confusing "power" for "action". Power refers to the amount of force
required to flex (bend) the rod blank or it's stiffness. Generally, you can get
rods with powers such as ultra light, light, medium-light, medium, medium-heavy,
heavy and
magnum-heavy. When someone says "that is a heavy action rod", what they probably
mean
is "that is a heavy power rod with a fast or ultra-fast action".
For pitching
a jig, I use a CastAway 7M HG40, which is a 7'0" medium-heavy power with a fast
action. It has the length and backbone I need to horse bass out of lay downs
and heavy weeds, yet I can throw a 1/4 ounce jig on Berkley's 14-pound Premium
Strength photochromic line with ease. CastAway's HG40 graphite is comparable
to IM6 or GL3. It has the power of standard graphite but is lighter and more
sensitive.
For crankbaits, I use a CastAway STM7, which
is a 7'0" medium power rod with
a slow action. This is one of the Soft Touch Crankbait Rods, which is a composite
of graphite and fiberglass for less sensitivity (read: you don't pull the lure
away from the fish too quick). I can throw a 3/8 to 5/8 crankbait on Berkley's
12-pound Sensation low-vis green line all day long with this rod.
So when you
are looking for a new rod (after all, you can never have too many!)
think of what you plan to use it for and pick the action and the power
that is best
for you. If you are looking for a great rod value, check out CastAway
rods.
Any
fishing or vehicle questions? Drop me a line… jeffmorton@gofishmidwest.com.
Go
FISH Midwest, YOUR source for Midwest fishing information… and
more!
Jeff Morton
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