Is Your System Working For You?
Using the right rod and reel combo creates efficiency on the water. (PAA: Alan Clemons)
By Mark Menendez
All anglers are collectors. We tend to find a lure, rod or a reel we like and gather them. Even during a tournament we are collecting our five largest fish of the day.
So how does tackle fit into an angler’s system to make it the most efficient? Fishing is a physical game. If an angler’s tackle does not fit, then he could be looking at losing fish or experiencing an injury.
Several factors come into play when choosing tackle. The first is weight. How much does an outfit weigh? Some techniques are very strenuous. Repetitious casting can create fatigue and possibly tendonitis. The second factor is the shape of the rod and reel. This creates the basis for efficiency or failure. The third factor is balance. If the tackle is not balanced, then the angler is open to negative potentials.
The reel has evolved, too. The first baitcasting reels were round. In the early 1970’s, the first reels began to emerge with a teardrop or low profile. The Lew’s Speed Spool was the first reel to have this unique shape. It was also the first to contain a “featureless” side panel for comfort. These are characteristics of most casting reels today. This design aids against hand and wrist fatigue for the angler.
Technological advances of materials have made fishing tackle much more user-friendly. A Lew’s Tournament Pro casting reel tips the scales at 6.7 ounces! Even though a light weight, the reel does not give up strength. It contains a duralumin spool and drive train. The drag system rates for up to 14 pounds from a carbon composite system. The handle is made of lightweight carbon, decreasing the overall weight of the reel.
Anglers have three gear ratio choices to parallel the desired technique. A high speed ratio of 7.1:1 is perfect for techniques like a Strike King Red Eye Shad or spinnerbaits. The reel gathers line at a rate of 31 inches per revolution of the handle. The 6.4:1 ratio is most versatile ratio of all. It retrieves 28 inches of line per revolution. This is fast enough for any soft plastic technique. The 5.4:1 ratio is the designated speed for crankbait applications. At 23 inches of line retrieval per revolution, this speed drives a Strike King 6XD crankbait to its maximum potential.
What about the rod?
Rod handles play a significant role in warding off tendonitis. Split grip handles have become the norm in today’s bass rod. The elimination of a portion of the handle reduces weight, and advances in reel seats are another factor against injury. Power Tackle has a unique reel seat on their “No Ratz” Cranking Rod. The Palmer handle allows for the angler to take all of the torque out of the rod when cranking.
Large crankbaits produce a tremendous amount of torque when retrieved. The palming handle lines up the angler’s shoulder, elbow, and wrist while cranking. The handle alone prevents a bout of fisherman’s elbow from a deep diving bait. The handle is offered on traditional styles of casting rods, as well.
Balance is important in every factor of choosing a rod and reel combination. If a combo is tip heavy, it will cause major muscle fatigue. The style of guides will place the most weight on the shaft of the rod. Double footed guides add stiffness to a blank. The double wrappings also add weight forward to the tip of the blank. Technology has stepped forward to lighten the overall package. Titanium recoil guides reduce the overall weight of the guides. These guides are indestructible. They will snap back into position if stepped on or mashed.
The recoil guide is the most sensitive guide available. It will transmit the lightest strike from a fish in to the hand of the angler. It does add a significant price increase to the rod. A second rod guide to come from technology is the “Micro guide.” Micro guides are the smallest of all guides. They claim to offer extended casting distance by reducing line slap against the rod blank. The diminutive size decreases the overall weight if the rod and increased performance.
By following the mentioned factors, the correct shaped rod and reel can mean a painless fishing experience. Most injuries are preceded by periods of off time from the task. A physical fitness routine is adhered to by many professional anglers. Consult a physician to develop a personal training regimen. This does not have to be a grueling set of activities. Strengthening one’s shoulders, hands, and wrists can prevent angling injury. A 15 minute workout is a small price to pay for a summer of angling fun.
Mark Menendez of Paducah, Ky., competes on the Bassmaster Elite Series and PAA Tournament Series. Follow him at Facebook, Twitter, and www.Markmenendez.com
