All About Rod “Power”

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In a previous Tools of the Trade segment, we discussed rod action as being where on the rod it begins to flex when perpendicular pressure is applied to it. If the flex point ranges widely from tip to butt, it’s considered a parabolic or slow-action rod. If it’s near the tip, it’s considered a fast-action rod.

Rod power, on the other hand, is determined by how much pressure you have to apply to the rod to make it bend. This is often referred to as rod weight and described as ‘heavy’, ‘medium-heavy’, ‘medium’, ‘light’, etc. These descriptions are very closely linked to line strength and lure weight. So much so, in fact, that these ratings are marked on each rod. These are important indicators.

Another thing to keep in mind is the fact that there is no uniformity from manufacturer to manufacturer with regards to power ratings. What might be considered a medium-heavy rod with one company might be just a medium rod with another. So be sure to read the ratings on each rod before you make a purchase.

PowerLine RatingLure Weight
Extra Heavy25 lb test and higher1 1/2 oz and above
Heavy15 to 25 lb test1/2 – 1 1/2 oz
Medium Heavy8 to 14 lb test1/2 – 1 1/2 oz
Medium4 to 12 lb test1/8 – 3/8 oz
Light4 to 8 lb test1/32 – 1/8 oz
Ultra Light1 to 4 lb test1/64 – 1/16 oz

Pete Bowman

Pete, one of the most revered and popular anglers in the nation, has a tremendous love for the game… the fishing game. Pete’s vast knowledge of angling and ability to articulate it to audiences worldwide has endeared him to his fans who still see Pete as just “ONE OF THE BOYS”. Pete is also an accomplished and published outdoor writer and photographer as well as a sought-after speaker. In 2012 another of Pete’s ultimate fishing career highlights occurred when he was inducted into the Canadian Angler Hall Of Fame, something he never thought would happen. A Canadian fishing icon.

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