Difference Between Fast Action Medium Action Fly Rods

Sometimes referred to as tip action or fast tip rods.

Difference between fast action medium action fly rods. Typically made from graphite or a boron graphite mix. A fast action rod will bend in only the top third or less of the blank a medium or moderate action will bend in the top half or so and a slow action will bend starting in the lower third of the rod. Moderate action rods flex more near the middle of the blank. Ask almost any fly fisherman to cite the differences between fast and slow action fly rods and you ll probably get some version of.

More forgiving than a fast action rod a moderate action rod is somewhat flexible but also offers a good degree of stiffness. A moderate or medium action rod is very versatile. This description is subject to. During casting a moderate action rod will bend moderately for half of its length and the lower half will remain stiff.

A fast action rod is stiffer than a slow action rod while at a very basic level this is usually the case it s kind of like describing the difference between a great dane. Faster action rods flex mostly near the tip. In previous articles about choosing the right fly rod part 1 part 2 i discussed a few of the key points in determining the right fly rod for you in your course of learning the fly fishing basics and how to fly fish. If the manufacturer does not break the power and action ratings up then this recommendation is likely advertised as medium action.

The action of a rod is determined by where a rod flexes along the blank. One of these key points was the fly rod action. Not to stiff not too soft. The rod is a little more forgiving to beginner casters than a fast.

Each of these fly rod actions have basic advantages and disadvantages. The best rod specifications for someone buying 1 rod reel combo is a medium power fast action rating. 3 choose a fly rod with a medium medium fast or fast action. The orvis flex index is just one way to describe the way a fly rod performs.

These differences have a significant effect on how a rod feels and performs. It really is the most versatile action available and it serves every skill level well. Rods with medium medium fast or fast actions are toward the middle of the action spectrum. The medium fast action rating makes up the bulk of fly rods today.

Fishing rod action and power can limit your abilities if you go to the far ends of the spectrum. Regardless of a rod s length or line rating it can flex near the tip towards in its middle or throughout their entire length. Learn the difference between action and power to build better performing fishing rods for your application. Sometimes slow action rods are termed parabolic meaning the bend of the rod is similar throughout the length.

If you want a lower rod without dropping the spine completely look for a medium action rating.