This parameter describes the compatibility of the rod with various fishing lines, but its role is not limited to this. Typically, the line test is specified as a range of values, such as 8 – 15 pounds (1 pound — 454 grams). The breaking load of the line used should be within the range specified for the rod. With a lower load, it is likely that the line will break during a sharp movement (for example, during hooking or even when casting), and with a higher load, the rod may break under a load that the line itself would withstand without problems.
Thus, the test on the line characterizes a kind of "power" of the rod, which includes two characteristics: elasticity (the force developed during jerking due to the flexibility of the structure) and the maximum weight load.
The length of the rod when folded. This parameter primarily affects the convenience of transportation: the shorter the folded rod, the easier it is to carry / transport.
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Fiberglass. One of the earliest synthetic materials used in modern rods appeared in the middle of the 20th century. It is a substance consisting of thin elongated filaments of ordinary glass. However, unlike the usual form of glass (for example, window glass), fiberglass is a soft and fairly shock-resistant material — for example, rods made of it are much more unpretentious than
graphite and carbon fiber (see below), less sensitive to bumps and falls, and are significantly cheaper. The main disadvantage is the significant weight, which creates inconvenience if you need to often cast the bait (for example, when fishing with a lure from the shore). In addition, fiberglass is less resilient and less resistant to bending than the mentioned "carbon" materials.
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Composite. Most often, composite rods are made from a mixture of carbon fiber and fiberglass. The first material has good rigidity and bending resistance, but is rather brittle; the second is not so hard, but at the same time less sensitive to bumps, falls, etc. The combined design allows you to combine the advantages of both materials and compensate for the disadvantages. Note that the proportions of this mixture are different, and therefore composite rods can differ greatly from each other in terms of characteristics; it is desirable to clarify this point separately before purchasing.
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Carbon (graphite). A type of carbon fiber is a synthetic material made up of thin strands of carbon. The main advantage of carbon is its high resistance to bending, which is very important when pulling large prey. In addition, this material is quite light and resistant to bad weather, temperature changes, etc. On the other hand, such rods do not tolerate shocks, falls on a hard surface, etc. and require careful handling — in particular, it is highly desirable to use covers during transportation. However, the advantages of carbon far outweigh its disadvantages, and therefore it is one of the most common materials for modern rods of various types.
This item also includes graphite rods. This is one of the varieties of carbon fiber, somewhat simplified compared to carbon fiber and, accordingly, less expensive. Graphite tolerates heavy bending loads worse, and therefore is used mainly in Bologna and float rods. In addition, due to its plasticity and "biting", this material is also suitable for match models.
