Fishing rods vary in size between 4 feet (for children) and 16 feet. The average rod is 6 feet in length. The longer the rod, the more force is put on the angler's arms.

The length of the rod you choose depends on two things. The first is the species of fish that you wish to catch. The other thing you have to consider is the landscape of the fishing location and the type of water.

If the landscape around your fishing hole has a lot of trees and overhead branches, a short, flexible rod is best. Short strong rods are best for landing game fish. Flexible, thin rods that are 10 to 12 feet in length are best if wind conditions are moderate.

Stronger and thicker rods should be used for large, aggressive fish such as northern pike, muskellunge, walleye and Arctic char. These fish would quickly snap a light and more flexible pole.

Flexibility, which is the amount that the rod can be bent before breaking, can be determined by the diameter of the pole. Light rods are thin and flexible, while stronger rods are thicker and more rigid.

When you look at a fishing rod, you will see several metal rings that are spaced from the handle to the tip. These are ferrules. They guide your fishing line and help it to cast and retrieve smoothly. The tip ferrule directs your cast.

Be sure to choose a rod that is compatible with its job. Though some rods can be used outside of their intended application, it's best to choose a rod that is the right one for the job. This ensures a successful fishing experience and gives you every chance of catching lots of fish every time you go fishing...