Top 5 Bait Casting Rods

Bait casting rods are perfect for top water plug action with comparatively heavy line. Their shorter length and heavier backbone allow wrist action to make a plug walk. The better bait casting rods will have a fast taper and comfortable hand grip.


 1.Shimano Teramar SE Inshore TMS70MH Spinning Rod

Fly Fishing Rod (Photo credit: grampymoose)

The Teramar rod series was created for anglers from two very different locations: the Southeast and the West Coast. As a result, we built two unique series in one. Southeastern anglers will find perfect rods for plug casting for snook, spinning on the flats or tarpon fishing under passes. West Coast anglers have an array of rods that includes trigger-stick casting rods for swim baits and jig sticks.

2. Penn Torque 10-Feet Surf Casting Rod
 This rod will perform for lots of fish. From redfish in Florida, to white sea bass in California, to bluefish in New England, it does extremely well. the International series is the top of the line in the Penn line-up.

3. G. Loomis NRX 853C JWR Casting Rod
 NRX is the culmination of what G.Loomis has been doing since day one. We have been continually striving to build the best rod on the planet. Laminates, resin, mandrels, components and the know how you expect from us. These NRX rods look like nothing we have built before. They feel better than anything we have built before. We aren't talking about a little better here or a little lighter there...What we are saying so there is no confusion... This is the Best Bass Rod Ever Built! Period!!

4. All Star ASR Series Inshore/Saltwater Casting Rod
 The ASR Series is loaded with features to help catch whatever you are fishing for. The new Split Grip Design provides better balance, as well as adding to the sensitivity of the rod. Total Touch Technology is featured on the reel seat of casting models, and in the fore grip of spinning models, producing even more hand contact with the blank to feel the slightest bump. ASR Series Rods are designed and crafted with technique specific lengths and actions for various fresh and salt water applications.

 5.Daiwa Team Daiwa light and Tough Tl7011RB Cranking Casting Rod
  Daiwa Team Daiwa light and Tough Tl-701-1RB Cranking Casting Rod Herea?TMs Daiwaa?TMs most-popular light & Tough Series actions ever. Their unique design and construction makes them effortless to cast, with sensitivity to feel the lightest strikes. Yet theya?TMre plenty tough to handle heavy fish in heavy cover, thanks to powerful IM6 graphite blanks reinforced with Daiwaa?TMs Power MeshA® graphite outer weave. Daiwa Team Daiwa light and Tough Tl-701-1RB Cranking Casting Rod FEATURES High-modulus IM6 graphite blank with Power MeshA® reinforcement Daiwa custom reel seats with blank exposed to the touch Quality FujiA® aluminum oxide guides Ergonomically engineered handle design fits the natural contour of your hand for greater comfort and less fatigue Natural cork grips Five-Year limited Warranty

Quantum Fishing Triax TRX30F/662M Spin Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

When you're out on the water, the right tackle setup can help you outsmart the fish and catch the Big One. Toward that end, avid anglers will enjoy the balance of value and performance found in the lightweight Quantum Triax rod and reel combination set. A lightweight graphite rod is responsive and durable, while the eye-catching reel features a smooth drag system, eight bearings, continuous anti-reverse, and a lightweight composite frame. Features

• Size 30 reel on a two-piece rod
• Medium IM7 graphite rod
• Balanced cork handle and aluminum oxide guides
• Continuous anti-reverse
• Lightweight composite body
• Longstroke spool design

Specifications

• 5.2:1 gear ratio
• Eight bearing system (seven + clutch)
• Six-foot, six-inch rod
• Medium rod action

Warranty
Quantum products include a limited one-year manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

Product Description

Size 30 reel on a 6'6", 2 piece, medium IM7 graphite rode with a balanced cork handle and aluminum oxide guides

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 Okuma Safina Pro Spinning Combo 

 Shakespeare Two-Piece Medium Heavy Action Ugly Cat Spinning Combo 7-Feet

Baitbox Fishing Reels at a Glance

Српски / Srpski: Mašinice za ribolov na Sajmu lova i ribolova u Novom Sadu. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: 1: Pick up or bail 2: Reel seat 3: Reel foot 4: Handle 5: Support arm 6: Anti-reverse lever 7: Skirted spool 8: Fishing line 9: Drag adjustment knob Español: 1: Pick up 2: Mango o soporte 3: Pie de sujección 4: Manivela 5: Pata del carrete 6: Sistema de bloqueo de retroceso 7: Bobina de tambor fijo 8: Bobina de alojamiento del hilo 9: Freno (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Fishing Reels (Photo credit: mrpbps)

fishing reel (Photo credit: Burp Hammie)

Fishing reels as we know today –the cylindrical device that is attached to a fishing rod and used in winding the line, came into picture around 1650 AD in England and by the 1760s, it gained popularity. Today fishing reels come according to specific types of fishing- spinning reels, bait casting, fly fishing, surfcasting, and bait feeder reels. Anglers choose a reel that most complements their fishing technique and brings out the best results.

However, unlike other tackle manufacturers, Baitbox does not believe in ‘entry level’ or beginner range. All the reels, no matter what size come packed with quality deserving of fishermen of every ‘level’. Most of these so called ’entry level’ reels have 1 – 3 bearings and are constructed at minimal cost but are sold in relatively higher price when the quality and performance of the reel is taken into account. Along with the quality, we also make sure the Baitbox fishing reels are good looking reels.  

But before you are out there shopping for the reels, isn’t it better to know what types of reels go together with what particular style of fishing! If you are a pro and just browsing through, you are well aware of it but the ones who are starting off might require some assistance in this regard and hence we would elaborate a little.

Spinning fishing reels are ideal for long distance casting, works well for light lures, a wide range of range of baits and do not backlash.  These are open faced reels with fixed spools that do not revolve while you are casting or retrieve. In order to retrieve the line, you have to turn the reel handle. The bail will revolve round the spool and the line is placed evenly onto the spool. For small pan fish with the lightest pound test lines to heavy duty lines for surfcasting and trolling- these reels are most recommended.

Fly fishing reels are simple mechanical construction operated by stripping line off the reel with one hand and casting the rod with the other hand. Nowadays fly reels have more sophisticated disc type drag systems. Saltwater fly reels are also specially designed for use in the marine environment. These are however larger in diameter to provide a large line and more backing.

Bait casting are multiplying reels, with the spool mounted above the rod. Stainless steel, aluminum, graphite and synthetic composite are often used as raw materials of these reels.      The graphite made reels are lighter but the aluminum reels are most preferred as they are more stable and rigid.  Good quality bait casting always come with high quality bearings made from shielded, double shielded or sealed bearings.

Surfcast reels are the ones that run freely on its axle thereby allowing distance casting. It is used for coarse fishing and is most commonly used in Australia for all forms of freshwater and saltwater fishing. 

No matter what your style of fishing is, you need a quality fishing tackle and from branded manufactures. The last thing you want is for the reel to give away just when you are about to reel that nice chunky fish! You would not want to be the one to tell the story of the fish that got away. 

By : John Anderson

Fly Fishing Clubs

Fly fishing clubs are a great place to learn, apply, and share knowledge of a great outdoor sport. Fly fishing clubs are the best "hands on" resource if you are thinking of entering the fly fishing experience.  If you want to learn more about casting a fly rod, how to tie fly's, how to make fly rods from blanks, or just have a great outdoor experience, check out a club in your area.

If you don’t have a fly fishing club in your area, you might want to access some of the resources available to you on the Internet.  There are many places you can go to online where you will find camaraderie, advice, and tips about fly fishing.

Fly fishing clubs are often regional in nature.  You can usually find a club that caters exclusively to residents of the state of Michigan or Washington.  You can also find a fly fishing club that is geared toward beginning fly fishers or one that gives tips and advice about how to tie flies or the best casting techniques to use.

One of the greatest advantages of a supportive fly fishing club is the opportunity to go on fishing vacations with people you meet.  When you get to know people who share your love of fly fishing, they are eager to co-mingle with other people who share their passion.

If you are a member of an Internet club for fly fishers, it can be fun to make plans to meet at a designated spot to get together for some well deserved R & R while fly fishing.  You can find camaraderie and friendship by joining a fly fishing club plus, you can learn a lot about the sport from fellow club members.

When joining a fly fishing club, you can further your fly fishing education, practice conservation, and enjoy the company of some interesting people who share your interest in the sport.  You can draw on each other’s knowledge and learn new things just by talking and participating in club activities.

Not only are there local clubs, but there are also national fly fishing clubs that you can become a part of.  The Federation of Fly Fishers is dedicated to enhancing the sport of fly fishing for all species of fish.  International Women Fly Fishers aims to educate women in the sport of fly fishing.  Trout Unlimited is committed to the preservation of all cold water species and habitats.

Many people join more than one fly fishing club as the choices can be endless.  If you are truly dedicated to the sport of fly fishing, joining a fly fishing club can truly enhance your enjoyment of this exciting and diverse sport!

Fly Fishing Equipment

Image via WikipediaImage via WikipediaJust as with any other sport, the equipment you use when fly fishing can be very important.  There are various types of equipment that you need when you undertake fly fishing, and be prepared because some of it can get quite expensive!

Of course, you’ll need a rod and reel.  What type of rod you choose depends on the type of fish you will be angling for.  Fly rods are ranked according to their net weight capabilities (nwt).  The nwt number will tell you what type of fish you will be able to catch.  Fish that weigh 8 pounds will require at least an 8 nwt rod, etc.   The larger the nwt number, the larger fish you can catch.

Some rods are multi-rated (e.g. 7-9 nwt).  These rods are good to use because they can accommodate a variety of fish, but multi-rated rods tend to be less flexible than single rated rods. 

Rods are made of fiberglass, graphite, or bamboo.  Fiberglass rods are durable and less expensive.  Fiberglass rods are best for beginning fly fishermen because they can be used in a variety of situations.  Graphite rods are lighter and will give you more fighting weight when it comes to landing a fish.  Bamboo rods can be expensive, but they are extremely strong and are suited to a more laid-back casting style.

Your fly line will need to match the nwt of your rod.  If you have an 8 nwt rod, you’ll need to use an 8 nwt line.  It is acceptable to go one or two sizes above or below your rod weight (i.e. 9 nwt or 7 nwt).  Buy line that is strong and durable.  Some lines are specially designed for freshwater, saltwater, etc.

You will also need to have a durable net that you can carry with you.  After the fish has lost its will to fight, a good net is used to scoop them out of the water.  This can be a big part of your fly fishing equipment because without a good net, you won’t be able to get your fish out of the water!

Having the right fly fishing equipment is important for both the beginner as well as the experienced angler.  As you get better and better at the sport, you will begin to see how important having good equipment can be.  You can always upgrade, so it’s good to start out small and work your way up to the more expensive stuff.  Your fly fishing equipment can make a world of difference between landing that big fish or catching an ordinary one.

History Of Fly Fishing

Image via WikipediaFly fishing has been around in various forms for many years. Early historical records indicate that Macedonian fishermen were using artificial flies to catch fish as early as the second century. The Roman Claudius Aelianus described the Macedonian anglers as using six-foot rods with six-foot line. Aelianus detailed how the Macedonian fishermen would craft artificial flies from a hook with red wool and insect wings tied on. These Macedonian fishermen were apparently quite successful with their technique. There is also some evidence that fishing with artificial flies may even predate the second-century Macedonian techniques.

Unfortunately, little else was written about ancient fly fishing methods. It was 1496 before any major work was published describing fly fishing.

It is thought that modern fly fishing probably developed in England and Scotland. Fly fishing techniques similar to modern techniques began to be developed in England in the 19th century. Around this time fly fishing clubs were also formed in England to accommodate a growing interest in the sport. Part of the interest in fly fishing in southern England was because of the prevalence of shallow, weedy rivers. Fly fishing proved to be well-adapted to this type of water course.

Fly fishing quickly became something of an elitist sport in England. Fly fishing purists insisted on fishing with dry flies only and looked down on wet fly fishing as being inferior. Wet fly fishing continued to be developed around the same time, however. The US and Scandinavia also saw fly fishing popularity increase during the 19th century. However, anglers in the US and Scandinavia did not share the English view concerning the superiority of dry fly fishing. US and Scandinavian anglers fished both dry and wet flies.

Fly fishing materials have continued to develop over the years. Significant advances have been made in fly fishing equipment, including rods, line and flies.

Early fly fishing rods were made from a tropical wood known as greenheart. Bamboo replaced greenheart as fly fishing popularity spread. Bamboo rods were further refined as American rod builders developed advanced rod building techniques that involved cutting the bamboo into strips before gluing the bamboo back together around a solid core. Following World War II fiberglass became a popular material for fly rod construction. The fiberglass rods were more affordable than their bamboo predecessors since bamboo rods may take as much as 100 hours to build. Modern fly fishing rods are usually made from a graphite compound. Modern rods are less expensive than earlier rods and perform exceptionally well.

Artificial flies were originally made from natural materials like feathers and fur. Most modern flies are made from synthetic materials.

Fly line has also been improved quite a bit. Fly fishing line used to be made of horse hair. Horse hair line was replaced by silk line. The silk line was an improvement over horse hair but  the line still had to be removed from the reel periodically to allow it to dry.

US interest in fly fishing peaked in the 1920s with Maine, Vermont and Wisconsin being the most popular areas for fly fishing. Interest increased again in the 1950s with the development of affordable, fiberglass fly fishing rods, synthetic fly line and monofilament leaders. These developments served to make fly fishing a more affordable sport for many people.

Sage Fly Fishing Gear

The Sage company has been producing quality fly fishing gear for many years.  They offer quality, top of the line fly fishing rods, reels, and lines to the beginning and experienced fly fisher.  They take pride in the quality of their equipment producing rods and reels that many fly fishermen use exclusively.

They design and test their hand built gear with one thought in mind:  maximum fishability.  That term was coined by the company to represent the type of performance that will help you cast better, fish more effectively, and have more fun while fly fishing.

Their company offers the fly fisherman all sorts of advice and tips on how to select the right rod for you and what is important to look for in your fly fishing equipment.  Sage rods and reels have long been the choice of many fly fishermen all over the world.

When you are just beginning to get interested in fly fishing, it’s easy to get frustrated at the amount of information you need to know.  However, those same frustrations are also felt by experienced fly fishers that provides them with the challenge and excitement that makes the sport so compelling.

As we’ve said, Sage rods are hand built which makes them quality products.  They manufacture nine different series of rods in a variety of models and sizes for every fishing situation.  They have medium to ultra fast action rods to suit many types of fly fishers.

Their website, which can be found at www.sageflyfish.com also boasts many new product lines and accessories that all fly fishermen can use.  They carry hats, t-shirts, rod and reel cases, fly lines, and much, much more. 

Their new Z-Axis series of rods has breakthrough technology that is significantly stronger, lighter, and easier to cast.  That makes this new line of rods great for beginners, and also experienced fly fishermen.  They implement their exclusive Generation 5 technology that makes their rods unique and high end.

When you buy a Sage fly fishing rod, you are getting a quality piece of fishing gear.  But that quality doesn’t come cheap.  Rods range in price from $400 to $700, but they do come with a guarantee.  Plus, if anything happens to your rod, they offer a rod repair service.

Many sporting goods stores and specialty fishing shops carry Sage fly fishing rods as do many online retailers.  You can go to their website and click on the “Buy” link to find a retailer near you that carries their equipment.

Sage fly fishing equipment is well known in the fly fishing world as a trusted manufacturer of valuable fly fishing gear.  Check them out for the best in the sport!

Different Types of Fly Fishing Casts

The art of casting is a very important skill in fly fishing. It requires gradual,  synchronized movements. It helps to think of each movement, both the back cast in the forward cast, is divided into three steps.  The first is loading, the second is the momentum of projection, and the third is the pause.  It takes a lot of practice to master the art of casting in fly fishing.

There are several types of casts. The most common of these include the basic cast, false cast, side and reverse casts, roll cast, and double haul cast.

In fly fishing the easiest cast, called the basic cast, is simply casting the line straight back and then directly forward. Anyone new to fly fishing should master the basic cast before going on to other techniques.  Use a short length of line to begin with if you are new to fly fishing.  This will help you gain sufficient control of the line, while practicing short gentle movements.

The false cast is a variation of the basic cast.  It consists of the same backward and forward movements as the basic cast, and is immediately followed by another set of the same movements.  The fly line actually travels backward and forward repeatedly without touching the water.  Practicing this type of cast helps to build precise timing that is required in fly fishing.

In fly fishing the side and reverse casts are generally used when wind is a problem.  They are also used if there are obstacles that can make a regular cast difficult.

A roll  cast is generally used if the fisherman finds himself with his back to such obstacles
 as a high riverbank or a wall of vegetation.  When these conditions exist, a basic cast is almost impossible.  You need to let out a good length of line in front of you; it's best to let the current take it a short distance.  The drag of the water on the line will load the rod, and you can cast forward without needing to execute the back cast.

Using a double haul cast in fly fishing will enable you to cast a much longer line than is possible with a basic cast.  In order to do this you need to have a much faster line speed.  This is done by making much larger casting movements, applying more strength, and loading the rod more before the forward cast.  During this cast both hands of the fisherman must work independently.

The above five types of fly fishing casts are the ones used most often.  There are many other types of casts also, including the S-cast, the parachute cast, and the mend cast.

Casting is the basic physical skill involved in fly fishing.  Its purpose is to place the fly exactly where you want it to be, just like any other skill it takes practice.  Accuracy and the delicacy of the presentation are very important when fly fishing. Mastering the basics of fly casting first will make it easier to move on to the more difficult casts.

Fly Fishing Accessories

Image by brettneilson via FlickrIn addition to the clothing and your balanced outfit there are many accessories that you should have for fly fishing.  Some of these  accessories may seem strange, but when wading, it is necessary to have all of your gear and tools with you.

You already have your fly fishing vest with plenty of large pockets, because that is part of a fly fisherman's basic wardrobe.  You might want to put a patch of sheepskin on the front of the vast where you can keep alternative flies handy.  You should also have a spring-loaded retractable spool that attaches to your vest to hold a pair of nail clippers. They come in very  handy for trimming knots. You might want to attach a patch of rubber for straightening leaders.  Ideally, the  vest should have a large back pocket to carry light rain gear.  Some vests also have a ring at the back of the collar, where you can attach the net to keep it out of the way.

The choice of your fly boxes is very important. One should have large compartments where you can store dry flies without crushing their hackles. You should also have one or two smaller boxes with foam linings and metal clips.  These are for holding your wet flies, nymphs, and streamers. Having a couple of small vials to hold your dry of flies after catching a fish also comes in very handy.

A spare spool for your reel, already loaded with backing and line, is a good idea to have with you. Also a  few spools of monofilament leader material, a leader wallet,  a sharpening stone, and a  Swiss Army knife are important for the fly fisherman to have within easy reach.

Insect repellent  is essential when fly fishing.  The main ingredient in many insect repellents is DEET, which is an industrial solvent and can damage the varnish on your fly rod, eat away the finish on your fly line, weaken your leaders and destroy your rain gear. If you do use an insect repellent with DEET be very careful of what it touches and try to limit its use.  There are many products today that do not contain that solvent.

Having a good pair of polarized sunglasses will help you to see the fish and protect your eyes from the damaging rays of the sun.  It's also important to have a small pocket flashlight with a flexible neck.  This can be very useful for many things including changing flies at dusk or dawn.  Other useful items include a thermometer, a small container of split shot, a good knife with several blades, and a small first aid emergency kit.

Many fishermen like to take a collapsible wading staff with them while fly fishing.  It helps them  to keep their footing if they are wading in a heavy current or on a slippery, rocky bottom.  A small cotton mesh net with a short handle comes in handy for netting your fish. If you intend to keep your catch a small canvas or woven willow basket for holding your fish will work well.

There are many other accessories available for fly fishing today.  Many of the choices depend on each fisherman's personal preferences.