Spinning Rod vs Casting Rod: What’s the difference?

There are very specific differences between a spinning rod vs casting rod. Each is intended for a certain purpose and style of fishing. In this article, we’ll cover a variety of characteristics that make each rod unique plus functional cues you can use to decide whether a spinning rod vs casting rod is right for you.

Spinning Rod

Spinning rods are a user-friendly choice for recreational anglers of all skill levels. They are paired with a spinning reel which is a great combination for fishing with light lines and tackle as well as live bait. Here are a few of the features and benefits of the spinning rod vs casting rod.

• Great for beginners
• Best for active fishing styles that require casting frequently
• Ideal for casting live bait and small lures
• Less prone to tangles
• Offer great casting precision when skipping baits around structure or in tight spaces
• Easier to access and adjust drag while fighting a fish

Casting Rod

Casting rods are commonly referred to as “baitcasting rods” and are paired with either baitcasting reels or conventional reels. Baitcaster reels are popular with intermediate and professional freshwater anglers as they require a bit of a learning curve to use properly. Here are a few features and benefits.

• Great for intermediate anglers
• Best for precision casting, many rods feature a trigger on the reel seat for added control
• Ideal for casting heavy lures, trolling, or deep dropping fishing styles
• Allows for technical casting styles such as backhand casting, flipping and skipping baits

Spinning vs Casting Rod: Which is Right For You?

Choosing whether to go with a spinning vs casting setup can come down to fishing style or personal preference. If you’re in the market to purchase, you should learn more about the different types of rods and how to choose the one that’s right for you.