Finding the “best” fishing rod for bass? Not gon’na happen. There’s no one rod that does it all. It’s like having different shoes for different occasions, you need the right one for each job.
Why? Because each rod is like a superhero with its own powers. One might be awesome for flipping frogs on the water, but not so hot for casting weightless worms. So, fishing champs and super into-it anglers?
You don’t need a whole bunch of rods at first.
When you’re just starting with fishing gear, you don’t have to go crazy with all the options out there.
Start with a few key setups, around Seven is a good bet. These setups cover a wide range of fishing methods and lures, giving you flexibility to try different things.
These initial seven setups are like your fishing tool-kit’s backbone. They’re carefully picked to handle various fishing styles. They’re not just limited to a few techniques; they’re versatile enough to adapt as you learn and grow. As you gain more experience or become curious about new fishing tricks, these setups will still have your back. They’re not set in stone; they’re your sturdy base. They allow you to explore and try new techniques based on what you like and how your fishing.
Choose bass fishing rod First
Before buying any rod for bass fishing, you need to know the following facts. This article is based on spinning and bait-cast rods set-ups for bass fishing. Learn how to bass fishing with fly rod.
fishing techniques for Bass Fishing Rod Setup
Bass fishing techniques like tools in a toolbox. Each one works better with a specific kind of rod.
So, first things first, where do you fish? Are your spots filled with rocks and debris waiting to snag your line? If so, using lures that might get stuck isn’t a great idea. You’d want a rod better suited for top-water baits or jigs that can dodge those obstacles.
But if your fishing spots are weed free and have visible brush piles, then zippy lures like spinners and crank-baits might be the way to go. These lures can zoom past structures and lure those bass out for a bite.
Knowing your fishing spots and what works best there is like having a secret code to find your perfect rod.
Once you figure that out, picking a rod becomes easy.
Size of lure:
Let’s say you find ¼-ounce jig for fishing, and it becomes your new favorite. But in fishing, sticking to just one thing isn’t always the best idea.
Sometimes you’ll want to try different sizes or even use weightless soft-plastic lures. That’s where choosing a single rod that works for everything gets a bit tricky.
Now, if you check the markings on a fishing rod, the info tells you about the best line and lure weight that rod can handle.
If you go too light, your casting won’t go very far, and if you go too heavy, your rod will bend way too much, making it hard to feel when the fish bite.
But here’s the important part, rods have their sweet spot for the sizes of lures they work best with.
So, even if you only have one rod, you’re not stuck with using just one size of lure.
The trick is matching the size of your lure to what you’re trying to do. If you’re into using mid-sized jigs, look for a rod that’s okay with handling lures between ¼ to 1 ounce.
This range covers most jigs and even some of those bigger crank-baits. You can even make soft-plastic lures fit in that range by using some clever tricks.
But if you’re aiming to use heavier stuff like spoons or large swim-baits, then you might need a stronger rod.
Pro tip: Just keep in mind that if the fish are biting on lighter stuff, your casting might not go as far. It’s like finding a balance, choosing a rod that’s good for your favorite lures but also flexible enough for when the fish want something else.
Your height and fishing experience:
Selecting the right rod length for bass fishing is important.
If you’re on the shorter side, handling a very long rod can be challenging, especially when you’re casting frequently. Skillfully moving a lengthy rod in tight spaces near the water can also be cumbersome.
On the flip side, if you’re taller, using a longer rod might feel more comfortable and can provide advantages in casting distance and control. However, extremely short rods are usually specialized tools and may not suit general bass fishing needs.
Opting for an average rod length, like around 6’6” to 7’ for shorter individuals and 7’6” to 8’ for taller folks, can be a balanced choice.
These lengths offer a good compromise between ease of use and casting effectiveness for most fishing situations.
When starting out or aiming for a versatile rod that covers various bass fishing techniques, sticking to these average lengths is often a practical approach.
It ensures you have a rod that’s not too unwieldy or too limited in its capabilities, striking a balance that suits different fishing needs.
But here’s where experience matters; Don’t opt for a longer rod length, especially if you’re new to fishing, even if you’re taller.
As a beginner, I recommend a 7-foot length for you.
Are you spinning or casting?
Choosing between a spinning reel and a bait-caster is like picking between two different kinds of tools.
If you’re just starting out with fishing, a spinning rod might be your best bet. These reels are simpler to handle, especially for beginners. They can handle pretty much the same lures as a bait-caster, as long as you match the reel size with the rod properly.
Now, when you’re checking out rods, take a good look at the rod blank, the main part of the rod without the handle and guides. Do you see a sort of “hook” near where your hand would rest? If you do, that’s a sign it’s a casting rod made for bait-casters. If there’s no “hook” and the rod have larger eyelets, then it’s likely a spinning rod.
Understanding the differences between spinning and casting rods helps you pick the right tool for the job. And for beginners, starting with a spinning reel might make your fishing journey a whole lot smoother.
Pro tip:
Experimentation and Adaptation: Test different setups and observe what works best in your local fishing spots. Flexibility and willingness to adapt setups to match changing conditions are key.
Two types of Bass fishing rod setup:
The Spinning Rod Setup I recommend to Newbies :
Here are some tips for beginners:
tip 1:
Start with Beginner-friendly Rods: Begin with rods suitable for beginners, medium-length, medium-power rods that offer versatility and ease of use.
tip 2:
Gradual Progression: As skills improve, experiment with different rod lengths, actions, and powers gradually. Transition to more specialized rods as confidence and proficiency grow.
7’ ft. Medium spinning rod and 2500 size Reel combo:
For bass anglers, having a spinning rod in your collection is a must. If you’re starting with just one, a great choice would be a 7-foot medium rod. This versatile rod covers all your finesse needs, allowing you to fish various techniques like drop-shot, wacky Rig, ned-rig, Neko Rig, shaky head, and more, all with just one rod.
Now, when it comes to reels for spinning rods, they’re quite similar in terms of casting distance, but there’s a notable difference in quality as the price goes up. Investing in a better-quality reel pays off, especially in how smoothly it operates during retrieval. One significant upgrade in higher-cost reels is the quality of the drag system.
A good drag system is crucial for handling hard-fighting fish, particularly when using light line. It can make a big difference when it comes to landing those challenging catches.
When choosing a reel, aim for the best one within your budget. Understanding the spinning reel size is important. Consider selecting a reel size that balances well with your rod. Reel sizes like 2500 or 3000, sometimes labeled as 20 or 30, are popular choices. They offer enough line capacity for your fishing technique without making the setup too heavy for the rod.
So, combining a reliable spinning rod, like a 7-foot medium, with a quality reel, ideally within your budget, sets you up for success in tackling various finesse techniques while ensuring you’re equipped to handle those hard-fighting bass.
6’9’’ ft. Medium spinning rod with 2500 size reel combo:
This 6 ft. 9-inch spinning combo with medium power and moderate to moderate-fast action is like your precision tool for specific bass fishing techniques.
It’s perfect for using shaky heads, drop shots, and light baits like lightweight plastics, as well as gentle jerk-baits and top-water lures.
The medium power gives you enough strength to handle these techniques, while the moderate to fast action provides just the right flexibility for finesse fishing.
With this combo, you’ve got the ideal setup for those situations when you need delicate presentations, like when you’re fishing in clear waters or targeting finicky bass. It’s like having a specialized instrument for those subtle, finesse-based fishing methods.
The Bait-cast Rod Setups I Recommend to Newbies:
7’ ft. Medium heavy Bait-cast rod and 7.0:1 ratio reel combo:
If you’re going for just one rod for bass fishing, consider the 7-ft. medium-heavy. It’s a super versatile length, and the medium-heavy power covers a bunch of techniques.
This combo works like a charm for spinner-baits, Chatter-Baits, jigs, Texas-Rigged, soft plastics, and more. Basically, it’s a jack-of-all-trades for bass fishing
Now, the reel speed matters too. A 7.0:1 reel speed is like a sweet spot, not too fast, not too slow, for handling all the different fishing tricks this setup can tackle.
When it comes to the line, think about using 12 to 15-pound fluorocarbon, it’ll handle pretty much anything you throw at it with this rod and reel combo.
For this setup I can say, if you’re after one rod that can handle a whole bunch of bass fishing techniques like a pro, this 7-ft. medium-heavy combo might just be your fishing superhero.
Is medium heavy rod good for bass fishing? Medium-heavy rod gives you the sensitivity to feel bites while also providing enough power to set the hook and handle those feisty bass. Overall, it’s a popular choice among anglers for bass fishing due to its versatility and ability to handle different fishing situations and techniques
7’ ft. Heavy rod with 7.0:1 ratio reel combo:
Think of a heavy power rod, like a 7-ft. one, as my go-to superhero for bass fishing, it helps me fish with jigs, frogs, buzz-baits, and more.
It’s got the strength to give those bass a good hook-set, especially when I’m fishing around thick, tough spots where they like to hang out.
Now, about the reel speed, I go for a 7.0:1. It’s a good speed that suits the different ways I can fish with this rod.
When it comes to picking the line, think about using 15 to 17-pound fluorocarbon. It’s like the Goldilocks choice, it works pretty well for most bass fishing tricks.
But here’s the important part: if you’re into frog or buzz-bait fishing, try using 40 to 50-pound braid. It’s super strong but still slim enough to cast a good distance. It’s like having extra power without sacrificing how far you can cast.
So, this heavy power rod, sized at seven feet, is like your trusty sidekick for bass fishing adventures, it’s tough, versatile, and ready to handle lots of different fishing styles.
What are heavy rods good for? Essentially, heavy action rods excel when using specific baits or fishing methods that demand extra strength and accuracy.
7’ ft. Medium Cranking rod with 6.0:1 Ratio reel combo:
For crank-bait fishing, having the right rod makes a big difference. These lures work best with a rod specially designed for them.
Crank-baits tend to pull hard when they dive, so having a bit of flex in the rod helps. When a bass bites, you need a rod that gives a bit, so you don’t accidentally yank those treble hooks out.
That’s where crank-bait rods come in handy. A seven-foot medium crank-bait rod is a solid choice. It’s perfect for various crank-baits, from square bills to ones that dive a bit deeper.
Now, here’s a choice you’ll need to make: graphite, fiberglass, or composite rod? Each has its pros and cons. But a composite rod blends the best of both worlds, giving you sensitivity, power, and the right kind of action for crank-bait fishing.
When it comes to crank-bait reels, go for a slower retrieve. It helps slow down the bait and prevents you from fishing too quickly.
A lower gear ratio gives you more power when you’re battling a fish. And a bonus? Fishing with a crank-bait doesn’t tire you out as much, even if you’re at it all day.
But guess what? This combo isn’t just for crank-baits. It handles moving baits like Chatter-baits, spinner-baits, and even some top-water lures.
For the line, think about using a 12-pound test mono-filament or fluorocarbon. It’s a good all-around size that works well with this rod and reel combo.
So, this crank-bait setup isn’t just about those diving lures, it’s a versatile choice that can handle a bunch of bass fishing styles like a champ.
7’6’’ Heavy Baitcaster Rod and 7.0:1 ratio reel combo:
When you’re after bass hiding in thick cover, having the right gear makes a huge difference. This rod and reel combo is your perfect partner for targeting bass tucked away in trees, bushes, docks, or grass, anywhere those big bass like to hang out.
With a rod of this size, you’re all set for flipping, pitching, and punching through thick cover using jigs and soft plastics.
It’s versatile enough to fish football jigs and Carolina-Rigs in open water situations. You can even handle smaller to medium-sized swim-baits with it, just check the rod’s lure weight rating to know what size swim-bait works best.
Let’s talk about the line for this setup.
You’ve got options! A braided line with at least 50-pound test is a solid choice, or you could go for a 15 to 20-pound fluorocarbon line. Use the 15-pound for fishing offshore techniques and the 20-pound when you’re fishing denser cover.
6’9’’ medium baitcaster rod:
This 6-foot, 9-inch medium-power bait-caster combo with an extra-fast action is like your go-to tool for specific bass fishing techniques.
Its main purpose shines when you’re using top-water lures and working with jerk-baits. The medium power gives you the right balance of strength, while the extra-fast action adds that quick, responsive feeling when you’re working these lures.
The different types of Rigs I’ve learned for Bass Fishing Rod Set-up:
Carolina rigs:
A Carolina Rig is a specialized setup specifically crafted for bass fishing. It involves a sliding sinker rig with a weedless hook paired with a soft plastic worm.
The rig uses egg sinkers weighing up to 3 or 4 ounces, with lighter ones being preferable to navigate through weeds or grass.
If you need a heavier weight, switch out the egg sinker for a fish-finder slide, a hollow tube with an attachment for heavier sinkers. To prevent snagging, place a small plastic bead between the sinker and swivel.
This setup has an advantage, it allows the fish to grab the bait without feeling the weight of the sinker, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Now, here’s how to rig a soft plastic worm on these bass rigs:
- Start with an offset shank worm hook (though other hooks can work too). Insert the hook’s point into the worm’s top center, just a quarter inch or so, and then poke it through the side of the worm.
- Slide the hook through the worm to the offset, twisting it 180 degrees back towards the worm.
- Hold the worm, allowing it to hang straight against the hook. Pinch it between two fingers where the hook rests against it. Lift slightly, angle the hook point through the worm’s body, and then pinch the worm to make it weedless.
- Ensure the worm lies flat along the hook for effectiveness. If it’s curved or bumpy, readjust until it’s straight along the hook.
Texas rig:
The Texas Rig is a super popular method in bass fishing. It’s a way to use a soft plastic worm near or within cover, like weeds, without snagging.
To set up this rig, you’ll need a special cone-shaped weight and a hook designed to be threaded inside the worm, concealing the hook’s point.
Here’s how to tie a Texas Rig:
- Thread the cone-shaped weight onto your main fishing line with the narrow end facing the line’s end.
- Attach a weedless worm hook.
- Slide the soft plastic worm onto the hook starting from the nose. Insert the hook’s tip around ¼ inch into the worm, then poke it out from the worm’s side at a 90-degree angle. Push the hook through until it reaches the hook’s eyelet.
- Rotate the hook so the point faces back towards the worm’s body once you reach the eyelet.
- Lay the hook alongside the worm, ensuring the worm stays straight. Note where the hook’s curve meets the worm’s bottom. Insert the hook’s point there and thread it into the worm’s body.
Some anglers use a small bit of a toothpick to secure the weight in place.
Drop shot rig:
The drop shot rig is a pretty popular setup among anglers, not just for bass but also for catching catfish and various other fish species. It’s especially useful when you want to present a soft plastic lure above the bottom to target suspended bass.
Here’s a simple way to set up a drop shot rig:
- Setting the Hook: Tie your hook inline so that it hangs parallel to the bottom. The Palomar knot works well for this setup. Begin by doubling your line and threading it through the hook eye. Leave a tag end long enough for attaching the weight later. Tie an overhand knot, but don’t tighten it fully, allowing the hook to hang freely.
- Forming the Knot: Pull the loop from the overhand knot over the hook, creating a Palomar knot. Tighten it by pulling both ends of the line. This secures the hook.
- Aligning the Hook: Now, take the tag end and thread it through the hook eye again. The goal here is to position the hook so that it juts out at a 90-degree angle from the main line, making the hook’s shank parallel to the bottom.
- Adding the Weight: Tie your weight to the tag end of your line. This weight keeps the rig in place while allowing the bait to float above the bottom.
- Attaching the Lure: Finally, add your preferred lure or soft plastic worm to the hook.
By setting up your drop shot rig this way, you’ll have a setup that helps target suspended bass or other fish species effectively without snagging the bottom.
The Ned rig:
The Ned Rig is a game-changer, especially when the weather turns colder, and bass get a bit sluggish. It’s a finesse approach that works wonders during fall and winter when big, flashy baits just don’t entice the bass as much.
Here’s a simple way to set up a Ned Rig:
- Pick the Right Gear: You’ll need a 3-inch soft plastic bait and a 1/16-ounce mushroom-style jig head with a small hook (usually size 1 or 2).
- Setting Up the Bait: Insert the hook part of the jig head into the top of the bait. Gently push the hook down about an inch through the center of the bait until it comes out of the side, leaving the hook point exposed. This setup ensures the bait looks natural but remains securely on the hook.
- Leader and Connection: Connect the Ned Rig to about 6 feet of 8-pound fluorocarbon leader material. Then, attach your main fishing line to the leader using a line-to-line connection like the Uni-to-Uni knot.
- The rig works by imitating natural bait movement while having a more subtle profile. It’s an excellent choice when bass are less active and unwilling to chase larger, livelier baits. Some anglers even develop their own unique variations of the Ned Rig to outsmart these clever game fish.
By following these steps, you’ll have a simple yet effective setup to target bass even in challenging conditions, increasing your chances of landing those elusive fish.
How to setup the bass fishing rod:
By following these steps and understanding the components of your fishing setup, you’ll be ready to hit the water and start catching bass.
Selecting the Rod and Reel:
Choose a rod and reel combination suitable for bass fishing. For beginners, a medium-power rod of around 6 to 7 feet in length is versatile enough for various techniques.
For instance, a spinning combo might be ideal for beginners due to its ease of use.
Attaching the Reel:
Securely attach the reel to the rod. Most rods have reel seats where you can lock the reel in place.
Ensure its tightened properly but not overly tight to avoid damage.
Choosing the Line:
Select an appropriate fishing line based on the technique and conditions. Mono-filament, fluorocarbon, or braided lines each have their advantages.
Beginners often start with mono-filament due to its forgiving nature.
Threading the Line:
Feed the line through the rod’s guides starting from the tip and working towards the reel. Make sure the line is properly seated in each guide to prevent tangling or snags.
Putting the right amount of line is important, otherwise you are going to regret.
Attaching the Lure or Hook:
Tie your preferred bass fishing lure or hook to the end of the line using a suitable knot. Popular knots like the Palomar or Improved Clinch knots are reliable and relatively easy to tie.
Setting the Drag:
Adjust the reel’s drag system. The drag controls how much resistance a fish feels when pulling the line.
It should be set according to the line strength and the size of the fish you’re targeting.
Adjusting the Rod Action:
Understand the rod’s action, which refers to its flexibility and responsiveness. For bass fishing, rods with medium to medium-heavy action are versatile and suitable for a range of techniques.
Practice Casting:
Before hitting the water, practice casting in an open area. Get comfortable with the rod, reel, and casting technique you’ll be using. This practice helps improve accuracy and distance when casting into the water.
Maintenance of bass fishing rod:
Keeping your bass fishing rod in good shape is really important for consistent performance. I’ve learned from experience that after a day of fishing, it’s crucial to rinse the rod with freshwater. I focus on cleaning the guides and reel seat well to get rid of any salt, dirt, or debris that might harm the rod.
Inspecting the rod for any signs of damage is key. Little cracks or nicks on the rod or guides can cause problems later on if not caught early. That’s why I make sure to check for these issues and fix them before they become bigger problems.
Following the maintenance instructions from the reel manufacturer has been my approach. I regularly clean and lubricate the reel parts to keep it working smoothly trip after trip.
Checking the guides is super important too. Even a tiny scratch can mess up the fishing line, so I always replace damaged guides promptly.
Cleaning the handle is often ignored, but it’s crucial. Using a mild detergent and water works well for cork or foam handles. These materials can wear out if not taken care of properly.
Storing the rod properly matters a lot. I use rod holders or racks to prevent any bending or knocking that might damage the rod.
Transporting fishing gear can be rough, so I’ve learned to use protective sleeves or cases for my rods, especially when traveling. This helps avoid accidental damage that could mess up future fishing trips.
After saltwater fishing, rinsing the reel seat and applying a protective lubricant is super important to prevent corrosion. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Overall, it’s about respecting your gear. Taking the time to look after your rod after every trip might feel like a chore, but it really pays off. These simple steps I’ve learned from experience have become routine for me, and they’ve made my fishing equipment last longer.
