With sport fishing's immense and still growing popularity, there are a number of rod and reel choices available. One of the most popular fishing rod types is the spinning rod. The spinning rod was first developed in the late 1800's, and is still one of the most popular types of fishing rod. It's amazing popularity has resulted in a number of different sizes and shapes of this easy to use rod. But with so many choices it can be difficult for an angler new to the sport to choose which one is right for them. Fortunately with a little thought about your unique fishing situation, you can make an intelligent rod choice. Here are a few spinning rod tips to help you on your way.

What is a Spinning Rod?

Spinning rods are a type of fishing rod that features a reel seat facing toward the ground, which is the opposite of baitcasting and most spincast fishing rods. With the guides and reel seat facing down, the spinning rod is extremely balanced. Spinning rods come in all shapes and sizes for all types of fish. Many big game fisherman, such as catfisherman, use them more often than any rod. They are also the dominant type of fishing rod for ultralight fisherman.

Choosing a Spinning Rod

Choosing spinning rods can be difficult with so many options available. But if you merely ask yourself a few key questions, you can figure out which spinning rod is best for you. When choosing your new fishing rod, just ask yourself:

• What species of fish are you pursuing? For every species of game fish, there seems to be a spinning rod tailor made just for them. For example, a medium heavy, to heavy action spinning rod is needed for catching big largemouth bass. On the other hand, an ultralight spinning rod would be more appropriate for panfish.
• What kind of cover is your target fish living in? Thicker cover will almost always require the use of a heavier action rod, while open water fishing will utilize lighter, longer rods for improved casting.
• What lure or bait size are you using? This can be an important factor in choosing your first spinning rod. Lighter action rods are needed to cast light lures such as small stick baits and spinners, while heavier action rods are ideal for large live bait rigs.

Spinning Rod Tips

Now that a rod has been selected that fits your specific needs, it's time to discuss a few spinning rod tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of your new fishing rod. As with any piece of fishing equipment, proper care and storage is very important to keeping it in peek working condition. Here are a few tips that can help keep your spinning rod working like new for years to come:

• Make sure your spinning rod is stored unbent. Many fisherman will reel their line too tight and bend the rod tip when storing their spinning rod. This may keep multiple rods from tangling, but long periods of time in that position can permanently damage your fishing rod.
• Choose a one piece spinning rod! This cannot be stressed enough. Unless you simply cannot fit a a full size rod in your vehicle without the ability to break it down, a one piece rod is the superior choice. The increase in sensitivity alone more than makes up for the lack of storage convenience.
• Match your fishing line to your rod. Just like a fishing reel, it's very important to match the line size to your fishing rod. Look on your new fishing rod near the handle,m it should say what line strength is appropriate.