Which one do you need? Which one is better? Spinning rod vs casting rod: go! The simple truth is, however, that both of these types of rods excel in their specific niches. Which one you end up going with will depend on personal preference.
To best explain the differences between these two kinds of fishing rods, we’re going to have to look at general use cases and ways in which you, too, can determine which might be better.
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What’s the Difference between a Casting Rod and a Spinning Rod?
Someone who’s not very experienced in fishing might assume that the main differences between these two basic rods might boil down to, say, length or flexibility. This is not the case, however. Both of them come in virtually all shapes, sizes, and states of matter.
Instead, there’s only one major difference between them! The kind of reel you can attach to them: baitcasting or spinning.
Casting Rod – Baitcasting Reel
The baitcasting reel is essentially a small winch that mounts off to the side of the rod. Most of these reels have a compact and bulbous frame with twin cranks attached to the side.
Using a baitcasting reel boils down to being more precise than you would normally be with a spinning reel.
Spinning Rod – Spinning Reel
The spinning reel is, on the other hand, an underslung attachment with its rotary mechanism open and visible. Spinning reels will have a single oversized crank compared to baitcasting reel’s dual design,
These bad boys are usually used to cast lighter lures with a longer casting arc, for those times where you need a fair bit more range, rather than accuracy.
When do I use which Rod?
Since each type of rod and reel is purpose-built for a specific kind of fishing, ideally you’d have both of them ready to go. We did mention what they ought to be used for in general terms, but there are a few other things to keep in mind, too.
Choose a Casting Rod for its Precision and Endurance
Got a chunky, weighty lure you’re meaning to cast? Need to cast it in dense cover, worry it will tangle? Without a doubt: you need a casting rod for this job.
This solid and hefty-feeling design combines phenomenally well with the reliability of jig and crankbait lures, offering you just the kind of platform you want and need to duke it out with a big old bass that’s eager to get away.
With a casting rod, you’re always in control, and you’ll have a better chance at dragging lurking predators out of their hidey-holes. Since the casting rod is so sturdy, there’s also less chance of it coming apart in your hands during prolonged clashes.
Choose a Spinning Rod for its Range and Low Weight
The mortar of fishing rods, this design allows you to cast lightweight lures at incredible distances, with the line unspooling smoothly and freely from its “under barrel” spinning reel.
Really, if you’re interested in a chill session with some topwater bait, this is the tool you need. Sure, it might not be quite as powerful as a casting rod, but it’s going to let your bait cover way more ground, making it a perfect match for getting a shot at inshore reels.
Since the spinning rod is also extremely light, it’s perfect for those times when you don’t really feel like lugging heavyweight stuff around. We’ve all been there, we promise.
So, there you have it! A whole list of reasons to choose a casting rod over the spinning rod, and vice-versa. If you need to settle on just one reliable daily driver, though, we recommend you to choose the casting rod for its wider range of application and relative ease of use.
