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Our Graphite Series rods now incorporate high-grade IM-6 graphite blanks. We’ve also equipped these rods with genuine Fuji® aluminum oxide guides, for near-friction-free long distance casting performance and enhanced feel on the retrieve. We’ve fitted them with quality cork handles and our own super-comfortable, lightweight graphite reel seats. Regular Price: $29.99 Sale Price: $19.99 |
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USSFN 4/06/03 - We all look at those new graphite rods in our favorite tackle store. We'll pick one up, get the feel off it, shake it, and then look at all of the others that are similar to it. Some have different features while some look like they came from a science fiction movie set. It can become very confusing when trying to figure out just what type of graphite rod that you need.
When graphite rods originally came out, they were nothing close to what you see today. I remember seeing rods with graphite wrapping peeling off, cracking, and especially recall seeing all of the rods that people thought they could bend in half. This cost one manufacturer a ton of cash in returns. Then there were the fake graphite rods. It got to a point where "graf" or "graph" were showing up in rod manufacturers' trade names often when there wasn't a bit of graphite to be found in the model. In some cases, rod producers came out with gray rods at a promotional price that didn't have any graphite content. The use of the word "composite" was becoming a joke as well.
About this time, the A.F.T.M.A. (American Fishing Tackle Manufacturers Association) stepped in with guidelines for labeling (including the percent of graphite content) much like you would expect to see on food products. For the most part, this forced the industry to quit fooling consumers. The rods that you see today are a result of this initiative.
Graphite has revolutionized the fishing tackle industry by providing lighter weight rods that are extremely sensitive. While a little more fragile than the old solid fiberglass rods of yesteryear, the benefits and ultimately the field results make them a winner. The key thought to keep in mind is that you usually get what you pay for in modern day graphite rods. An celebrity endorsement usually drives up the retail price slightly, too. Another thing that you might find interesting is that while there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of trade names and models out there, there are really only a handful of companies that actually manufacturer these...most of them being imported.
When buying one of these rods, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to match the rod with the reel(s) that you are going to be using with it. In other words, you want to create a "balanced" combo. Many manufacturers, distributors, and retailers have done this already and provide pre-mounted rod and reel combinations for your convenience. However, often this is a marketing tool to match up a high profit rod with a name brand reel. Don't be afraid to take your favorite reel into the store with you. Mount the reel on the rod that you're interested in, then hold the rod and reel in a horizontal position and try to balance the rod on your finger just above the front of the reel. This is the easiest way to give you an idea of how balanced the two are together.
Second, match the stiffness of the rod to the intended type of fishing. For example, downrigger anglers often prefer to have most of the "action" (the part of the rod that is very flexible) in the upper 20 percent of the rod's length providing more solid strength throughout the rest of the rod. Panfishermen, on the other hand, might prefer to have more of a "noodle" or much limper rod. Having the wrong rod can only cause problems out on the water.
Thirdly, sensitivity is one of the strong points when discussing graphite rods. These rods can actually "telegraph" the lightest bite right down to your finger tip. Therefore, it's a good idea to have a rod that has the blank (the rod part without guides or handle) extend through the handle. On better models, part of the blank will be exposed for your fingertip. Knowing when fish are bumping your lure/bait can improve your results tremendously. When possible, it's always a good idea to go with a one-piece rod. The reason for this is that the connection causes a noticeable loss in sensitivity at your end.
Keep in mind that lighter graphite models don't hold up well if you are the type that "horses" your rod. In such cases, you might want to consider a heavier weight rod or fiberglass construction. I would also still have to suggest fiberglass rods as my choice for young beginners as they will take much more abuse. - Jim
