Spinning rods vs casting rods: understand their differences

Fishing rods come in an amazing array of lengths and strengths. Many anglers have museums of different rods for different species and occasions, but a similar question we see concerns the difference between casting rods and spinning rods.

Truth be told, there are not astonishing differences between the two types. However, knowing these differences can be important in preparing for your next fishing trip and growing as an angler.

Check out below where we highlight these differences and try to guide you in choosing the correct rod, for your fishing needs.

Are spinning rods or casting rods better?

The simplest explanation when it comes to the differences in each rod is: a spinning rod will only attach a spinning reel and a casting rod will only attach a baitcasting reel.

Spinning rods will only allow for a reel to be attached underneath the rod, with the eyes (or guides) facing down. These guides also tend to be larger on a spinning rod, because of how the line comes off a spinning reel. This allows the line to unravel freely as it twirls to unravel from the spool. Because of this method that the line unravels, larger eyes are needed to guide the line through without hangups.

Casting rods are a bit more sensible and made to have a baitcasting reel sit on top of the rod and allow line to flow through the eyes (or guides), which will also face upward. They often come equipped with a trigger for your index finger. This generally allows your finger to ergonomically grip the rod, indicating how exactly you will use your hand to cast.

Conversely to the spinning reel, casting guides on the rod will be smaller. The casting reel allows line to come unspool linearly, going parallel with the rod. Therefore, there is no need for larger guides and the line comes unspools very uniformly.

You can check out a more detailed comparison of spinning reels and baitcasting reels if you want.

Choosing the right lure

Generalities suggest casting rods tend to work better with heavier lines and lures, targeting larger fish. The method in which the casting line comes off the reel, requires weighted lures to help pull the line off for long casts.

Spinning reels can also cast heavier lures, but are also well suited for lighter tackle. You rarely see anglers using casting rods and reels to target lighter species like trout.

Choosing your rod by the type of water

Spinning rod and reel combos are often used in both freshwater and saltwater. When it comes to truly powerful fish, however, anglers often switch to a casting rod. The style of the rod is preferred for trolling and heavier line, but also for fighting large, strong fish. Because a casting rod’s eyes face up, when a powerful fish pulls, the line will be supported against the rod guides and the actual rod itself.

Conversely a spinning rod, with guides facing down, will put all the stress of the line onto the guides of the rod and not the rod itself. This stress could lead to broken line, or even broken guides.

Picking the right rod is important for your preferred type of fishing, but it doesn't have to be a daunting task. Knowing the basics of spinning rods and casting rods is your key to picking through a sea of rods to find that perfect combo for you.

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