Learn the Basics of Bamboo Fishing Rods
People have enjoyed fishing for centuries and have fished with all different types of rods. One of the favorites, though, is the old-fashioned cane pole or bamboo rod. These rods are simply made, and can do a good job of catching fish if you’re a patient angler. Usually, these old-fashioned rods don’t have a reel attached, so once you cast, you really don’t have anything to do but wait for the fish to strike.
In a way, using a cane or bamboo rod is taking a step back in history, when all anyone needed to fish was a long piece of cane, a line and bait. In addition to harking back to the past, the simplicity of the design makes it easy to teach someone to fish. As a result, these simple rods are perfect for children, and a great way to get them interested in fishing without having to learn the “latest” technology.
The Perfect Cast
What lures anglers to bamboo fishing rods is the way these rods cast. Casting with a bamboo rod is smooth and fluid. The characteristics of the wood create a “dampening” effect on the backcast and at the beginning and end of the forward cast. Though the forward cast has a lot of speed, the dampening effect gives the angler the precision to place the bait or lure exactly on target.
For many fishermen, there is no substitute for a good bamboo fly rod. Experienced anglers will insist that no synthetic, no other rod can compare to a Tonkin cane bamboo rod for trout fishing. After decades of research about resins, carbon fibers, fiberglass and other elements, engineers have come close to recreating bamboo’s special features, but have never succeeded in replicating its line-throwing qualities.
Maintaining a Bamboo Fishing Rod
Bamboo is a type of wood, and as such requires some specific care. First, the rod must be cleaned and dried after each use. Second, it must be protected from the elements. Leaving a rod out in the sun or near extreme heat can damage the varnish. Lastly, they should be stored flat and in quality rod tubes to help prevent damage.
Bamboo can break. It’s not unusual to hear about bamboo rod tips being broken by car doors or power windows. In addition, the rod can snap at the ferrule is heavy line is thrown with too much force. Still, if you’re careful, your bamboo rod can last for years.
Give Bamboo a Try
You don’t have to spend a lot of money for a cane or bamboo rod. Sporting goods stores sell them, often as part of a beginner’s package. This package has everything a novice could need: rod, line, and hook. The rod is usually in two pieces, has line attached to the end, and the line already boasts a hook, weight and float. You just choose how long you want the line, plunk down your cash and head to your favorite fishing spot. Nothing could be simpler, right? Right!
