Fishing is not just a fun recreational activity but a whole sport. You can’t enjoy a fun fishing trip without ticking off all the boxes and ensuring your rod is in perfect condition. However, the rod has a tendency to get damaged.
There are several reasons why fishing rods can break. Sometimes there is a manufacturing error, and sometimes the fish you catch may be too big, which can cause the rod to break. But the majority of the time, the reason why your rod breaks is because of poor treatment and maintenance. If you don’t store it properly or transport it in a callous manner, it is bound to get damaged.
If you want to learn more about why your fishing rod may have broken and what you can do to fix or avoid the problem, keep reading.
What Are The Major Causes That Rods Break?
Fishing rods break when they develop tiny fractures that may go unnoticed initially but slowly build up over time. Sometimes a rod breaks from the bottom. The rod can completely snap, or it might develop minor fractures that reduce its efficiency. Several reasons cause breakage.
For more detail on this, watch this video before reading the rest of the article.
You May Be Transporting Your Rod Incorrectly
The rod needs to be carried properly for it to be able to be safe from damage, but most people tend to overlook this. They end up transporting their fishing rods in ways that can cause breakage. These include;
- Carrying the rod at the back of the truck/vehicle: the back of the vehicle’s bed is constantly bouncing, which may cause the rod to bounce and develop fractures too.
- Transporting your rod with a loose weight or a hook: This weight can constantly smack against your rod and cause damage.
- Leaning the rod against concrete or other hard surfaces can also damage the rod during transportation.
The Rod Breaks If You Use It Incorrectly While Fishing
You might make specific errors while fishing that can also result in the breakage of your fishing rod. There are two main errors.
- High sticking: This means raising your rod to an angle greater than 90 degrees. This puts a lot of stress on the rod and can cause it to break or snap.
- Letting the rod double under the ship or boat when fishing is also a standard error. This puts unduly pressure on the rod and can cause it to snap.
Your Rod May Break Due To A Manufacturing Error
Sometimes the broken rod may have nothing to do with transportation issues or mishandling the rod during fishing. There may be a manufacturing error, and the rod may be built of a cheap and fragile material. This can cause the rod to break even if its stress is not too high, so it is best to purchase good-quality rods with good reviews.
The Weight Of The Catch Can Cause The Rod To Break
The fishing rod can typically handle 20-40 pounds in a 4-8 oz line. If you end up catching a fish that ways more than this on a rod that is designed to carry about this much weight, the added pressure can cause breakage in your rod. It is generally advised to use stronger and more durable rods and fishing lines for heavier fish.
How To Transport Your Rod Safely?
If you want to transport your rod safely, instead of just throwing it on the bed of your vehicle, you should provide it with some cushioning. You can use a pool noddle for this. Another alternative is to get a hook in your car. This works best for SUVs and vans. Then you can hang your rod on the hook or the hanger and prevent damage.
Is There Any Way To Add Strength To Your Rod?
If you want a stronger rod, you can choose options other than the basic blank rod. Generally, fiberglass rods are better than graphite rods. They are more durable and have greater endurance. Specific rods are specifically designed to endure more weight; these rods include;
Jigging rods: They are designed with fiberglass and metals such as aluminum. They are shorter and slower in speed than regular fishing rods but can carry large weights.
Multipiece rods: These rods have a bad rep for breaking easily, but they have a really high endurance. Using multi-piece rods together can reduce flexibility but allow you to carry more weight on the rod.
How To Use Your Rod Properly?
Getting the technique right can prevent you from misusing or damaging your rod. The first step is to learn about the different parts of your rod. You must use your dominant hand on the reel and ensure that the line is as taut as possible. You must also avoid letting the rod double under the ship when fishing. It is best to redirect the fish before you catch it in a situation like this. Redirection would prevent undue pressure from building up.
How Long Do Fishing Rods Last?
Fishing rods have long lifespans and can last 20-50 years if taken care of properly. However, misuse, exposure to UV rays and saltwater, and improper maintenance can often reduce the lifespan. If the efficiency of your rod is beginning to decline, there is a chance you may need to replace it.
How Much Do Fishing Rods Cost?
The price varies depending on the quality, the company or brand, and the size. The average price can range from 20 dollars to 100 dollars. You can also purchase the parts separately and then put them together. This is more economical but also time-consuming.
The Conclusion
In short, fishing rods are long-lasting and survive several years if properly cared for. There is a chance of damage if you mishandle them during transport or fishing. These rods should always be handled with care and regularly maintained if you want them to last.
