Fishing rods online in India

Spinning rods are the easiest start and cover most freshwater and light saltwater fishing. Baitcasting rods sit the reel on top and give more control with heavier lures, for example for murrel and barramundi. Surf rods (usually 10 to 14 ft) cast bait or lures far from the beach. Telescopic and multi-piece travel rods pack small for bikes, buses and flights. Fly rods are used for trout in the Himalayan streams and are matched to a line weight.

Every rod blank is marked with its length, line rating and casting weight. Shorter rods (6 to 7 ft) are accurate around ponds, mangroves and boats; longer rods cast further from shore. Power (ultra-light to heavy) is how much force the rod takes; action (fast, moderate, slow) is where it bends. A fast, medium-power rod suits lure fishing; a moderate rod is forgiving with live bait and small hooks. Choose a casting weight range that covers the lures or sinkers you will actually use.

Lakes, reservoirs and ponds (rohu, catla, tilapia, murrel) need light to medium rods. The sea and backwaters are harder on gear: look for corrosion-resistant guides and reel seats, and step up in power for trevally, queenfish, seer fish and grouper. A rod made for saltwater can be used in freshwater, but not always the other way round.

Entry-level rods are usually fibreglass or composite: heavy but very tough, good for beginners and children. Mid-range rods use carbon (graphite) blanks and better guides, so they are lighter and more sensitive. Premium rods use higher-grade carbon and fittings and are made for a specific technique. Spend on the rod you will use most, and match it with a reel of the right size.

Rinse rods with fresh water after every sea or backwater trip, dry them before putting them in a bag, and check the guide rings for cracks that can cut line. Store rods straight, out of direct sun, and use a tube or rod sleeve when travelling.

A 6 to 7 ft medium-power spinning rod is the most versatile first rod. It handles pond fishing with bait, light lures in lakes and backwaters, and small fish from piers. Pair it with a 2500 to 3000 size spinning reel.

For casting from beaches and rocks, 9 to 12 ft rods are common; longer surf rods cast further with heavy sinkers. From piers and harbour walls, a 7 to 9 ft rod is easier to handle.

Carbon rods are lighter and more sensitive, so you feel bites better and tire less. Fibreglass is heavier but very hard to break, which suits beginners, children and rough use. Many rods combine both.

You can, if it is strong enough for the fish, but rinse it with fresh water after every trip. Guides and reel seats that are not corrosion-resistant can rust quickly in salt air.

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Local names, seasons, bait and rigs for each fish

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