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"Rod Terms"

Over the next few days we will take a look at some different types of rods and reels and their specific (and/or general) uses for south Florida fishing applications.  Let's quickly talk about the five most common terms that are often used when describing fishing rods. 

ACTION- Action is used to describe the bend of the blank (Most companies use action ratings extra fast, fast, medium fast, moderate fast, moderate, slow, etc...).  A extra fast action blank bends mainly in the tip and then stops, where as a slow action blank bends more through the whole rod(often described as a parabolic bend).  

 Blank Material- Very simply stated, this is the material that the rod blank is made from.  Typically rod blanks are fiberglass, graphite, or a combination of the two.  The material used has some bearing on the action and power of a rod.

Line Class- The manufacturers suggestion for what pound line should be used on a rod.  Typically given in a range, Example 10-17lb.  

Lure Weight- The manufacturers suggestion for what size lure/bait is ideal to use on blank.  Also typically given in a range, example 3/4-2oz.

Power- Power is used to describe the pulling power of a rod, typically ranging from ultralight to heavy.  (Different than action as it is not describing how the rod bends, just the pulling power it has)  There is no set table for "power" so the feel of a Heavy Shimano rod verses a Daiwa Heavy rod may be completely different.