Whips, Rods, Reels & Poles
Whips ~ Float or Waggler Rods ~ Feeder Rods ~ Poles ~ Reels
Like all things in fishing, your purchase options are countless.
Whilst it it is true that you get what you pay for a lot of the time, the quality of fishing tackle has come far enough so that even modestly priced rods, reels and poles will still give you good equipment.
Whips
A slim lightweight pole with a solid or hollow tip. With no reel to complicate things, a whip is the easiest way to start fishing. Whilst some whips are ridiculously expensive, the most basic models are very cheap and affordable. As basic as they are, do not think that they are not a fantastic way of catch an awful lot of fish!
Float or Waggler Rods
Float fishing is probably thought of as the most traditional style of fishing. Although largely pushed aside by pole of Feeder rods on Commercial fisheries, A float rod has it's part to play in any good anglers skills set. Typically around 11 to 12ft in length, Waggler rods come in two basic types. A Pellet Waggler is a stronger, more powerful tool for taming larger species like Carp. Whereas a softer model usually labelled as a 'Silverfish' or 'Ultra' is designed for smaller species like Roach in the winter. A Waggler rod will always have a nice soft curve to it, ideal for lighter lines and smaller hooks.
Feeder Rods
A Feeder rod is a stronger rod for casting heavier feeders (See small tackle items), but soft enough to play fish gently. A very thin coloured quiver tip will give you the bite indication, although bite can be quite violent. Look for rods around 10ft (3-metres) in length. 10ft will be the most useful length for most of the local fisheries mainly because you won't have to cast far enough to warrant a longer rod. Your budget will dictate the quality of your rod. But there are some very good rods for not a lot of money these days. Always ask for advice...
Poles
Poles are right at the sharp end when it comes to cost. Some models can cost you more than a new car! But, happily, you don't have to spend that much on a pole to get started. A 'Margin Pole' like the one in the picture, still might cost you around £200, but they will last almost a life time if looked after. A margin pole will usually be around 9 or 10-metres long at its longest length, but you can use them shorter until you get used handling them. Fitted with elastic inside the thin end two sections, they can land some very large fish indeed. Strong and robust, they can withstand the knocks and bumps that would break more expensive poles.
Reels
There are more reels available to buy than there are stars in the sky! So, how do you make sense of it all? Reels are roughly graded in size in thousands from 1000 up to 14000. For general use, look for a reel in the 3000 to 4000 range, depending on the size of your junior. A 3000 sized reel will do most jobs to start with and will be small and light enough to use with small hands. Single or double handle (pictured) really won't make any difference. You should be able to pick up a good reel for around £30 to £50. If you are new to fishing, ask the shop to load it with line for you, or ask one of our coaches to help.