Fishing Frenzy

It can difficult to make the leap from fresh water to sea fishing. Finding the right sea fishing rod for the job can certainly seem like an added complication.

Don't worry, help is at hand. Bear the following simple points in mind and you'll be enjoying sea fishing success in no time!

5 crucial hints and tips to consider when buying sea fishing rods:

1. Consider where you will fish.

Will you be fishing on the shore or along the sea-bed? It's worth thinking about this carefully before you start looking for the right sea fishing rod.

It's important to be clear on this when researching. Where you'll be fishing will determine the fish you'll be fishing for and thus the type of rod you'll require.

One thing for sure is that you'll need a heavier, stronger rod for sea fishing, because the fish are naturally heavier, larger and stronger than freshwater fish.

Fishing for, say, sea bass or marlin, requires a stronger rod that can land heavier fish, whereas you could get away with a lighter rod for fish like grouper, flounder or snapper.

2. Consider the material your new rod will be made from.

Graphite or fibreglass are generally good choices for sea fishing rods.

Both graphite and fiberglass are strong enough for sea fishing but also light enough to handle for long periods of time. They aren't prone to rusting in salt water like other metals.

Graphite rods might not be tremendously flexible, but they certainly are strong and fairly light.

Not all graphite fishing rods are made equal. Those designed specially for sea fishing are typically longer, wider and thicker than the ones you might be used to for freshwater fishing.

An alternative material is fiberglass. Fiberglass sea fishing rods are much more flexible than graphite which makes it easier to fight stronger fish for a longer period of time without getting tired.

It's true that fiberglass generally doesn't last as long as graphite, but as long as you get some good solid use out of your rod you won't find it a problem.

3. What tackle do you intend to use?

Like all fishing rods, sea fishing rods are useless without decent tackle. The best kind of tackle depends on the kind of rod you intend to use.

As with the choice of rod, the choice of tackle is very much dependent on the type of catch you're going for and where you intend fish.

4. Take account of the fishing techniques you'll be using.

Not all fish and fish habitats require the same fishing techniques.

Think carefully about the techniques you'll likely be using before buying your rod.

5. Research, research, research.

There's a huge selection of fishing gear available to choose from which can be overwhelming, especially for the beginner.

It's therefore important to make an informed choice.

There are many fantastic online fishing stores which you should spend time browsing. These will at the very least give you an idea of what's available in the price range you're looking for.

Don't forget there are also loads of magazines in real-life magazine and book stores dedicated solely to sea fishing, which are full of articles, hints, tips, reviews and advice. These also have adverts for rod manufacturers and suppliers which are worth checking out too.

The best help and advice you can get is from fishermen themselves. There's no substitute for personal experience.

Make sure you're informed and bear these tips in mind when making a choice.

Enjoy your research and enjoy fishing!