Which Rod to Buy for Float Fishing and Spinning?
J. Mann asks

I am wanting to go fishing in the lochs near to where I live and I have a 7 foot telespoic rod. But I am looking to buy a new 2 piece rod. I want to do float fishing and also spinning. Can you recommend what kind of rod I should get as I am new to fishing?

Any tips or information you can give me on fishing for trout in lochs would be helpful because when I look on the internet it's always about fly fishing, coarse or sea fishing. I have been looking at rods online and they are either fly or rods for carp fishing which I am not sure will be suitable.

Matching the Rod to the Job

Walk into any tackle shop or browse online and you will find a wide range of fishing rods on offer. The type you need depends on how you plan to fish. Using the right rod for the specific fishing style enhances both performance and enjoyment.

Float fishing and spinning are two distinct approaches, and each calls for different rod characteristics. Trying to do both with a single rod usually means compromising on performance for at least one method.

Float Fishing Rods

Float rods in the UK typically range from 10 to 15 feet depending on the application. Waggler rods tend to sit around 12 to 13 feet, while stick float work on rivers may call for something longer. This reach helps with line control and allows you to position your float accurately at distance. Float rods are designed to be lightweight and responsive, which matters when you are striking at bites and playing fish on light tackle.

The action tends to be through the rod, meaning it bends progressively from tip to middle. This cushions the fight and reduces the risk of hook pulls when using fine lines and small hooks. Most float rods are two or three piece designs, making them reasonably portable.

If you plan to fish rivers, canals or still waters with a waggler or stick float, a rod rated for lines of around 2lb to 6lb will cover most situations. Consider the waters you fish most often, as bank conditions and casting distances vary considerably across different venues.

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Spinning and Lure Rods

Spinning rods are built for a different purpose. They are typically shorter, often around 7 to 9 feet, with a stiffer action. Ultralight rods for small streams may be as short as 6 feet, while heavier setups for open water can exceed 9 feet. This stiffness helps when casting lures repeatedly and setting hooks into predatory fish like pike or perch.

You may see these marketed as pike rods, lure rods or predator rods. The stiffer blank provides the backbone needed to work artificial lures and handle hard fighting fish. Spinning rods are usually rated by casting weight, so check that the rod suits the lures you intend to use.

For general pike spinning, a rod rated between 10g and 40g will handle most situations. Perch fishing often calls for lighter tackle, with lure weights down to 2g or even less proving effective. Matching the rod rating to your intended quarry makes a noticeable difference.

Choosing and Buying

In most cases, owning separate rods for float fishing and spinning makes sense. A dual purpose rod may not perfectly suit either method, though budget friendly all rounders do exist for anglers starting out. If you want to pursue both styles seriously, dedicated rods for each will serve you better over time.

Online shops are useful for research and comparing prices. You can read specifications, check reviews and get a sense of what is available within your budget.

However, visiting a local tackle shop has real advantages. You can hold different rods, feel the balance and action, and ask questions. How a rod feels in your hand during a practice cast matters as much as the printed specifications. Staff at independent tackle shops often have practical experience and can offer guidance suited to your local waters, including any gear restrictions on particular venues.

Many areas have tackle shops that welcome newcomers. The Angling Trust website lists affiliated clubs and retailers if you need help finding one nearby. Local clubs can also advise on regulations or environmental factors affecting specific water bodies in your area.

Take your time choosing. A rod that feels comfortable and suits your intended fishing style will serve you well for seasons to come.