Which feeder is better to choose: feeder rod for beginners

One of the first problems that fans of feeder fishing face is how to choose a feeder rod, and not only the convenience during the fishing session, but often its result, depends on its correct solution.

Fishing with bottom gear is considered the most popular in our country, and the feeder is the most catchy and versatile bottom gear. Before we talk about how to choose the right feeder rod, let’s outline the advantages of this gear and the conditions in which it is used.

The advantages of fishing with a feeder

The invention of the feeder played a big role in the development of bottom fishing, and fishermen liked it immediately after its appearance.

The feeder is used to catch:

rivers, with current;
inland waters, without current;
sea.

That is, in almost any conditions, this bottom tackle provides results. The amateur donka is a simple tackle that has been used by fishermen for decades, but it has limitations on the fishing range and the size of the fish caught.

It is difficult to bring fish weighing more than 10 kg onto the bottom without a rod, since the tackle simply will not hold up, or the angler will cut his hands on the fishing line. Using a feeder rod in this case solves all problems, and besides this, the feeder has the following advantages:

no need for a bite alarm;
fishing is carried out at a distance of 100+ meters;
with the help of one rod they catch as many fish as with several classic donks;
the fishing point is constantly supplemented with bait from feeders;
any bottom nozzles are used;
all non-predatory fish are caught;
self-cutting and sliding equipment is used.

With the help of a feeder, they catch both small roach and large carp or silver carp at both a distance of 40 and 120 meters. The fisherman does not need to monitor several donks at once, because more fish are caught with one feeder rod.

The pace of feeder fishing involves re-casting the tackle every 3-5 minutes, although this period varies depending on the conditions. After the tackle is thrown into the water, the line is tensioned so that the tip of the rod (quivertip) is bent. When a fish bites, the position of the quiver tip changes and the fisherman understands that he needs to hook.

Small fish are caught on the feeder:

roach;
blue;
sprat;
bull;
white bream.

But the catch also includes large trophies:

carp;
white and black cupids;
silver carp;
line.

Even catfish are caught on a feeder, but for this the most durable forms and appropriate installations are used. Fishing for crucian carp and bream using feeder rigs is very popular; in general, any peaceful fish can be successfully caught using this bottom rig, so its popularity is not surprising.

Thanks to the use of a feeder, the fishing point is constantly fed with new portions of bait, and this, in turn, attracts fish and keeps it in one place.

Using a variety of baits and baits makes it possible to fish with feeder gear throughout the open water season and even from the ice in winter.

And if during periods of inactive fish and weak bite, sliding rigs turn out to be catchy, then the summer options are self-hooking, which saves the fisherman from the need to make a clear hook in time.

Naturally, for catching small fish and trophy carp, feeder rods with different characteristics are needed, and therefore most feeder anglers have several forms in their arsenal, for different conditions.

Wise choice of feeder rod

Despite the fact that each situation is individual, there are general criteria for choosing a feeder form.

This:

fishing conditions, type of reservoir;
anthropometric data of the fisherman;
expected size of fish in the catch;
the distance over which the installation is supposed to be thrown;
weight of the thrown cargo;
ease of use while fishing;
quality of production of the feeder form;
cost of the rod.

Each angler has a certain purchase budget and, depending on this amount, considers which feeder to choose. But even if the budget is unlimited, this does not mean that you need to buy the most expensive fishing rod and it will become universal for all occasions.

Of course, the higher the price of the feeder, the higher the quality of its manufacture, but this does not mean that the budget form is no good and you cannot catch trophy fish with it. Many anglers with different incomes have a need to purchase feeder equipment, including fishing rods, so fishing equipment manufacturing companies try to offer a wide range of feeders, as they say, for every taste and color.

What is a feeder rod

A feeder rod is a highly effective tackle for bottom fishing using rigs equipped with bait feeders. The technique was invented in Great Britain, from where it quickly migrated to the European continent, and over the next decade it spread throughout the world, becoming today the most popular direction in bottom fishing. The essence of the method is to supply a special installation into the fishing zone, the basis of which is a bait feeder.

The rig is cast using a feeder fishing rod. In general terms, this kind of gear is quite similar to a spinning rod. The main differences are the high sensitivity of the quivertip and the ability to change it depending on the mass of the thrown load, as well as a large number of winding rings, which in some powerful models can reach up to 20 pieces.

The sensitive tip of the fishing rod plays the role of a bite alarm, the movements of which help the fisherman to correctly orient himself to choose the moment to carry out a control notch of the trophy. Feeder rods differ in size, weight and maximum load capacity, which, as a result of selection, allows the fisherman to quite subtly manipulate the optimal parameters of the assembled gear for a variety of hunting conditions.

Picker

Expert opinion

Evgeny Zhirkov

Feeder fishing expert

Bottom fishing does not always involve long casts of heavy feeders; conditions vary and often fishing at a distance of up to 40 meters is the most effective. As you know, fish go to the shore to feed, under overhanging tree branches or thickets of reeds, and if the fisherman manages not to make noise on the shore, a good fishing result is guaranteed.

For fishing at close ranges, there is no point in choosing a rigid feeder rod, which creates certain inconveniences when casting under the near edge. It’s not that such a feeder with a solid test will not cope with the task, but there is simply no need for it, especially if small fish are caught.

It’s not even interesting to fish out a small bream or roach on a feeder with a dough of 120 grams or more; there is no pleasure in it for the fisherman. Therefore, for fishing at short distances with light feeders, a picker is chosen.

A picker rod is a type of feeder with a small test for light feeders. The length of the picker rod varies from 210 to 300 cm, weight up to 60 grams. Although in the last 3–5 years pickers with a weight of up to 120 grams have appeared, for fishing on the current, gear with feeders weighing 70–80 grams is enough. This is due to the development of new high-strength materials that can withstand severe loads.

Initially, a picker is a two-legged feeder-class rod with a test weight of 40–60 grams, up to 270 cm long, intended for fishing at a distance of up to 50 meters. The principle of pickerel fishing is no different from feeder fishing, except that this is delicate fishing, not designed for large trophies.

They fish with a pickerel with a line, because at short distances the stretchability of the monofilament does not provide any advantages, therefore, when choosing a pickere rod, it is important that the quality of the guides corresponds to the expected load when casting and retrieving.

Small rivers and streams, ponds and overgrown lakes are those bodies of water where pickerel fishing is most effective and justified. Anyone who wants to get involved in fishing with feeder rigs is recommended to start with a picker in order to understand and appreciate all the advantages of fishing with a quiver tip rod.

The light weight of the blank, soft tips, and thin lines help you experience the beauty of fishing with feeder rigs and catch great fish.

The picker is used to catch not only small fish, but also carp and medium-sized carp, and the rod copes well with the load.

Material about pickerel fishing can be read here ▶

Choose a picker rod by:

length;
form material;
test;
cost.

Salmo rods are considered the best pickers in Eastern Europe, in terms of price-quality ratio, and among them:

Elite Picker 40.
Team Salmo Energy Picker 40.
Team Salmo Tournament 40.
Team Salmo Tournament 50.

How to choose a feeder rod?

Depending on where the fish will be caught and what kind of fish will be caught, the feeder rod is selected.

Feeder rod test

This indicator is of serious importance, since it determines how far a feeder with bait of a certain weight will be thrown. In this regard, the feeder rod is divided:

for ultralight with dough up to 30 g;
for light ones with dough up to 60 g inclusive;
medium class with dough from 60 to 80 g;
for medium heavy with dough from 80 to 100 g;
for heavy dough with dough from 100 to 120 g;
for extra-heavy with dough from 120 g and more.

It is not recommended to go beyond the test limits, since extra grams will overload the tip and can lead to its failure. If you use feeders whose weight is less than the test indicator, this will lead to a decrease in the sensitivity of the feeder gear.

Feeder rod length

The longer the rod, the further you will be able to cast the rig. Therefore, when choosing a fishing rod, you should consider how far you will have to cast the tackle. If the reservoir is small, then a long rod is not needed at all. Therefore, you need to pay attention to a rod with a length of 2 to 4 m.

Feeder rod structure

Feeder rods differ not only in test, but also in structure. The structure can be:

Slow . The blank of this rod bends completely, both when casting and when playing fish.
Fast . As a rule, in such rods only the upper part is bent. Such rods react very quickly to fish bites and allow you to completely control them when fishing.
Average _ A similar rod reacts differently to different loads. At low loads, only the upper part works, and when the load increases, the middle part can also be turned on.

Feeder rod length

When purchasing a feeder for specific fishing conditions, you need to choose the right rod length, which depends on several factors. On the one hand, a long and rigid blank makes it easier to throw heavy feeders over long distances.

On the other hand, a feeder that is too long is inconvenient when fishing at short distances, and this happens often. The height of the fisherman also matters, because not every fisherman is comfortable casting with a long rod, and if we take into account the high frequency of recasts, then even more problems arise.

Therefore, the choice of feeder and its length is made taking into account:

height of the fisherman;
expected casting distance;
weight of the feeders used;
fishing conditions and equipment used.

If when fishing you use a feeder station that provides the necessary amenities, then in a sitting position even a physically strong and tall angler will not throw the tackle far.

But if the cast is performed in a standing position, the long rod shows all its advantages and the tackle flies 100 meters or more. Here, every additional foot of length (30 cm) plays a big role and adds 10–20 meters to the casting distance (depending on the physical strength and height of the angler). Therefore, long rods are chosen for long-distance fishing and their test weight should be at least 80 grams.

Such rods are heavier than the same picker and their sensitivity is lower, but these shortcomings are compensated by their sending power, which is important for long casting, reliability and comfort when fishing for a heavy trophy.

For fishing at distances up to 80 meters, the optimal feeder length is 11-12 feet (330-360 cm). For longer casting, choose feeders 13–14 feet (390–420 cm) long.

Even during one session, fishing conditions change, the wind interferes, and fishing points can change, so it is advisable to have feeder forms of different lengths in stock, suitable for different situations.

It is difficult and inconvenient to fish with a 420 cm long feeder at close range, as well as with a picker at long range, so it is better to take rods of different lengths with you when fishing and always be confident in your gear.

Types of feeder rods

Feeder rods come in two types:

telescopic;
plug-in

Each type has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, which the angler should know so that there are no problems while fishing.

Plug feeders

The advantages of plug feeders are that they:

used on any type of reservoir;
have a maximum length for feeders;
durable and reliable;
lungs;
sensitive;
durable;
have excellent technical characteristics (in particular test).

That is, having a plug feeder, an angler will be able to catch both roach on the river and large carp on a commercial or wild pond. Thanks to the plug connection, these feeders are stronger and more durable than telescopes and feeders weighing 100 grams or more and deliver over a distance of 150+ meters.

You can't cast that far with a telescope, and this limits the angler's capabilities. There are situations when the fish stands on distant lines and even with the help of constant feeding it is not possible to lure it closer to the shore. Having a plug rod can easily solve this problem, but with a telescopic rod you will have to be content with “chupa chups”, or the lack of a catch.

To perform super-long throws, a fisherman needs to master a special technique, but a beginner can also cast a pole at a distance of 80+ meters, which already allows him to catch trophy fish. The low weight and high strength of such rods are especially valuable for anglers and therefore they are more common and popular than telescopic blanks.

Another important advantage is the wide range of plug rod tests. There are forms with dough up to 60 grams, and there are up to 200. For catching trophy fish, powerful feeders are chosen, but for delicate fishing for crucian carp or roach, blanks as light as a feather with small tests are suitable.

But plug feeders also have disadvantages:

inconvenience in transportation;
high cost compared to telescopes;
sensitivity at the joints and when sand or dirt gets in, they quickly collapse.

Anglers who have personal transport have an easier time transporting equipment and, in particular, fishing rods. Even forms 4.2 meters long from two elbows fit freely into the machine and do not cause inconvenience. If you have to get to the reservoir by bicycle, motor vehicle or on foot, the transport length of plug rods becomes a problem and it is inconvenient to carry them even in cases.

The cost of plug-in forms is higher than telescopic ones and this is due to the peculiarities of the feeder manufacturing technology. This argument is not relevant for every angler, but you need to know about it before you go shopping.

When assembling the plug feeder before fishing, and accordingly, disassembling it after finishing, you need to carefully ensure that sand does not get into the joints, because this will quickly deteriorate and the rod will have to be repaired. With careful use and storage in the case, there will be no problems, and the rod will last for many fishing trips.

Telescopic feeder rods

The invention of telescopic rods made life much easier for fishermen, and after similar equipment appeared among floaters and carp fishermen, it came to feeders as well. Such rods consist of 4–6 legs equipped with rings and inserted into each other, which significantly reduces the size of the folded blank.

First of all, it is convenient for transportation, and this advantage is especially appreciated by those who fish with a feeder from a boat. It is difficult to move along the river if there are 3.6 meter long rods on the boat, and this is not the limit for feeders. In addition, the cost of telescopes is lower than that of plugs, and the price plays a decisive role for some anglers.

A fishing rod for feeder fishing should be comfortable, but its other characteristics must also be taken into account.

Advantages of telescopic feeders:

short transport length;
acceptable price;
quick preparation for use and dismantling after fishing.

They can also fish from the shore with feeder telescopes, but usually their length is limited to 270–300 cm, and you won’t be able to cast a feeder with bait far with such a rod. A large number of elbows reduces the strength of the blank, so the feeder test does not exceed 60–80 grams, which means you cannot catch heavy fish with them.

Disadvantages of telescopes:

small test indicators;
low reliability;
inability to fish at long distances;
length restrictions;
greater weight compared to plugs.

We can say that feeder telescopes do an excellent job of their tasks when fishing from a boat and at close range, and these are the optimal modes of their operation.

Beginners in feeder fishing are recommended to start fishing with inexpensive telescopic forms, and after gaining experience, buy more expensive plug rods.

Test and classification of feeders

While everything is more or less clear with the concept of a feeder rod test, not all fishermen know what action is and how forms of different action differ. And before choosing the best feeder, you need to understand all the nuances. The rod test is considered to be the optimal mounting weight to be cast into the water.

If the weight of the feeder with bait is greater than the declared test form, then it will break during a force cast.

Manufacturers indicate a test rod with a margin of 20–30 grams, but it is better not to take risks and strictly follow the recommendations. Light rigs are also inconvenient to throw with a rod with solid test, as it will “fail” when casting. What type of rod test is usually indicated directly on the form and this is one of the important selection criteria.

For some feeder models, test limit values are indicated - maximum and minimum, most often in libra (1Lb - 327 grams). It is better for the fisherman to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, then the rod will last for more than one year.

Experts divide five classes of feeder rods, and although this classification is very arbitrary, it helps to determine the right choice:

ultra Light feeder – ultra-light;
light feeder – light;
medium feeder – medium;
heavy feeder - heavy;
extra heavy feeder - extra heavy.

This classification is recognized by manufacturers and a mark about the class of the feeder rod is placed on the form. Ultra Light feeder is designed for fishing with feeders weighing up to 40 grams in still water.

The length of such fishing rods does not exceed 3 meters and they are made from:

carbon fiber;
fiberglass;
composites.

Ultralight rods are not designed for long-distance power casting. But in conducting exploratory fishing at close ranges, such forms show their best side.

The maximum length of the light feeder is 330 cm, and the test weight is up to 60 grams. Such parameters allow you to conduct comfortable fishing at distances of up to 60 meters, not only in lakes and stakes, but also on rivers. Inexperienced anglers should pay attention to forms of this class, because this is, in fact, a feeder rod for beginners and it is better to learn feeder fishing with it.

Medium feeder is the largest class of feeder forms. The length of the mediums is up to 360 cm, the test weight is up to 100 grams, and these are already solid characteristics that allow you to catch trophy fish at distances of up to 80 meters. The high sensitivity of medium-class feeders is important, and when fishing, they “knit” the fish well, preventing it from getting off the hook. Such rods can withstand forceful casting and are sensitive to the most “gentle” fish bites.

Heavy class feeders are aimed at catching strong fish on large rivers with turbulent currents, where their advantages are fully demonstrated. Test forms up to 120 grams, length up to 390 cm, fishing distance 120+ meters. High-quality heavy feeders are made of carbon, because this allows, along with reliability and power, to minimize the weight of the form and provide convenience when working with it.

Heavy class rods are also used for fishing on still commercial reservoirs, where there are definitely trophy fish, but to catch them, you need power casts over a long distance. The blank of the rod handles the jerks of trophy fish well and forgives the angler for possible mistakes when fishing.

Along with mediums, heavy feeders are very popular among fishermen and companies producing feeder equipment are trying to constantly expand their offer in this niche.

You need to understand that heavy class feeders are inconvenient for close-range fishing with light feeders. The load on the rod must correspond to its class.

Feeder rods of the extra heavy are the most powerful equipment for fishing in difficult conditions. If you have to fish on a river with a strong current, you need to use heavy feeders that ensure that the food is thrown at the same point all the time, because they are not carried away by the flow of water. But to cast a heavy feeder you need a powerful blank that can withstand heavy loads. Extra-heavy feeders are the heaviest, but this is not surprising considering the tasks they perform.

Classification of feeder rods

The classification of feeder rods will occur according to several parameters, each of which will be, if not key, then very important.

Test

Testing feeder rods is the first thing people pay attention to.

Test name	Rod test (gr.)	Rod length	Description
Ultra-Light Ultralight (Ultralight, also known as picker)	from 10 to 40 gr.	from 2.0 m to 3.0 m.	Ideal for catching small fish (such as perch) at close distances, up to 35 meters. Used when fishing in reservoirs without current.
Light (Light, light)	from 40 to 80 grams.	from 3.0 to 3.3 meters.	A more popular segment of feeder rods. Fishing in weak currents is allowed. Casts up to 45 meters are possible.
Medium (medium, average)	from 80 to 100 grams.	3.3-3.6 meters.	De facto it is considered a universal class of feeder rods. Catching both small carp and medium bream. A test of up to 100 grams allows the use of heavy feeders, which is necessary when fishing in strong currents.
Heavy (Heavy, heavy)	100-120 grams.	from 3.6 to 4 meters.	Also a very universal class of feeder. It is well suited for beginners, as it forgives the mistakes of beginners. Simple fishing for long casts.
Extra Heavy	from 120 grams.	from 4m and above.	Class for very heavy gear and extremely large fish. The length of the rod allows you to make long and precise casts.

To know which rod to buy, you need to have a clear idea of the casting length and weight of fish you expect. In addition, the topography of the reservoir is important. For example, ultralight rods are suitable for reservoirs where the first upper edge begins very close; a distance of 20 meters is quite enough for catching small fish.

If you are a beginner and don’t know where to start, then take a Medium or Heavy rod, with them you can fish most places and the casting itself will not be so difficult for you.

Most rods have a test significantly higher than what is specified by the manufacturer. Therefore, do not hesitate to exceed the stated grams.

Build

There is a lot of completely insane information on the Internet regarding the feeder system, we are obliged to clarify.

There are only three systems of feeder rods.

Fast build. Typical for fishing rods in the budget segment. Only the final 1/3 of the form on the quivertype side bends. This system is suitable only for beginners, in order to understand all the nuances and delve more deeply into feeder fishing.
Parabolic system. Excellent performance when fishing with feeders weighing up to 70 grams . The entire rod bends right from the handle. The parabolic action dampens fish jerks well and is suitable for fishing in moderate currents or in its absence. Also a good option for beginners, which can be used to catch bream, roach, pike perch and other fish weighing up to 3 kg . Parabolic action is most often used on rods up to 3.3 meters .
Complex (progressive). With a progressive system, the entire stick can bend, but only under the necessary loads. That is, when casting a feeder weighing 80 grams, 1/3 of the entire rod will bend. However, when fishing for a large specimen over 4 kg, the entire rod will be used. Very convenient fishing and comfortable casting with a rod length of 3.3 meters. The only disadvantage of such rods is the price.

By material

Carbon fiber/Carbon. Alloy of carbon fiber and resin.
Quality depends on specific production technologies. For example, often to save material, manufacturers alternate layers of cheap carbon fiber and fiberglass. It is impossible to notice this when purchasing; it is visible only when sanded with sandpaper. The quality of the carbon itself, which goes to the manufacturer, also matters. How not to buy a form that will not fall apart during the first season? Take proven models or lines that have already been on the market for some time and have some reviews. Fiberglass. Budget rods that match the quality of their price. An aging material that is becoming less and less popular due to the advent of corbon and composite rods. Of the modern fishing rods made from fiberglass, the only ones that can be distinguished are Volzhanka blanks (Optima, Volgar), which are quite good for their price.

Composite rods. A compromise option consisting of a combination of graphite, fiberglass and resin. As with classic carbon poles, the original material and production technique are important. Manufacturers often give new names to their production technologies, however, it is impossible to understand what exactly it means, for example, HPC200+Biofibre (from Shimano). And again you will have to rely on the reviews of fishermen who managed to purchase and test this or that model. We will provide our rating of the best models below.

Handle material. Wood makes the rod much heavier, but makes it more pleasant to use. Handles are generally made from cork or cork material or rubber. Important point : if you find a seam on the handle, it means the layer of cork will be thin and will quickly crumble. With active use, rubber quickly deteriorates and rubs your hands, so you should discard it.

Material of passage rings . The rings must be titanium. Quality rings have a coating of silicon carbide (SiC) or aluminum oxide and titanium nitride, which protect the cord from chafing. It is better to immediately find rings with such coating, because replacement will cost money. Otherwise, other than the size of the rings and their location (more on that below), there are no issues. The best rings are rightfully considered to be rings from Fuji .

Quivertype material . For beginners, you should start with fiberglass (feederglass). We'll tell you why below. For those who already know how to fish correctly, it is best to choose a carbon fiber one. Moderately tough, but light, it fully complements the fishing line.

Other parameters

Also, when choosing a feeder rod, there are a number of equally important aspects that you should pay attention to when purchasing.
Quivertip. There are two types:

Fiderglass (fiberglass). Quivertips made from this material are soft, sensitive, and most importantly, durable, do not break, and easily forgive the mistakes of beginners. Glass quivertips bend easily, making the bite easy to see. They are slightly heavier in weight than graphite (20 percent). Definitely a choice for a beginner.
Graphite . Highly modular characteristics. Breaks under strong bends, more rigid. A rod with a graphite quivertip form one whole; the quivertip complements the action of the rod, unlike feederglass, which will stand out strongly, for example, when using fast action rods. Graphite is good for the river, under heavy loads and for playing large fish.

Handle length. The larger the stick, the more handle you need. For small picker rods up to 3 meters, handles of about 40 cm are suitable. For rods with a length of 3.6 meters, a handle of 55 cm is required.

Number of joints. Characteristics often include numbers such as 3+1 or 5. What do they mean? The first number is always the number of components. By “+1” we mean quivertype. If there is only one number, for example 5, then the rod has 4 components +1 quivertip. As a rule, the components can simply be dismantled and made from a 4.2 rod, for example, a 3.6 rod. However, the fewer components there are, the better the stick will “build.” Therefore, if you do not plan to sometimes shorten the rod, then the best option would be a 2-piece feeder.

Plug-in or telescopic? Both of these types of feeder rods are moderated in length. The telescopic form can be extended to a certain length, and the plug components can be removed at the joints (sometimes at the handle itself). Telescopic rods are usually much cheaper (Volzhanka Volgar, Salmo Diamond, Mikado, Kaida) than plug-in rods, but they also have a number of disadvantages:

The telescope is heavier than the multi-piece plugs.
Rubber handle.
It is impossible to use thin fishing line or braid (the rings are damaged).
Weak sensitivity.
Slow build, rather rough.

Hence the conclusion - if you are a beginner feeder, or your budget is focused on cheap rods up to 2000 rubles - then take a telescope. In other cases, plug rods are better in everything.

Build

Another important characteristic of the feeder is its structure. Many anglers do not fully understand what this concept is and what role it plays when choosing a feeder. In fact, action characterizes the rigidity of the rod and the ability of the blank to withstand loads.

The slow or fast action of the rod affects its “work” when casting, not only the tip, but also all other parts.

There are three types of structure:

fast – fast;
average – average;
slow - slow.

When casting with a fast action rod, the tip and the upper bend bend, that is, about 30% of the length of the entire blank. It is believed that fast action feeders make it easier to accurately cast to the desired point, and as you know, this is an important condition for feeder fishing.

With each subsequent cast, the amount of bait in the swim increases, which serves as an additional factor in attracting fish. It is more convenient to force the catch of a trophy with a fast-forming feeder, and it can withstand heavy loads. But the fisherman needs to be careful, since the rod does not absorb the jerks of the fish well, and if the reel clutch is incorrectly adjusted, the equipment may break.

The medium action feeder bends to half the form when casting and retrieving, “forgiving” the angler for possible mistakes in the retrieving technique. Medium action rods are recommended for beginner fishermen who are honing their technique of working with a feeder blank.

Slow action rods bend along their entire length and perfectly dampen the jerks of the heaviest fish, which actively resists when fishing. It is more difficult to accurately cast with such a form, but it uses thin bases, cords and monofilament lines. The thinner the diameter of the base, the further the equipment flies after casting, so it is also impossible to say that “slow” feeders are used to fish only under the shore.

When purchasing, the rod's structure is determined using a special test, because not every manufacturer provides complete information. To do this, a load equal in weight to the test indicators is attached to the upper tulip. Gradually moving the form from a vertical to a horizontal position, the structure of the feeder is determined by eye.

Feeder rod structure

According to their structure, feeder rods are divided into:

fast;
average;
slow.

For a beginner, the best option would be a medium-action feeder rod, because it has average characteristics and is ideal for an inexperienced feeder. The blank of such a rod bends to the middle, which allows you to soften the jerks of large fish and, at the same time, not experience discomfort when casting.

Material of manufacture

Naturally, every angler wants the rod he buys to last more than one season and successfully cope with casting and landing all types of fish. Much here depends on the material from which the form is made, because its quality is the key to the reliability of the feeder. There were times when bamboo fishing rods were considered the best, but technology does not stand still and feeders are now made from:

high modulus graphite;
composite materials;
fiberglass.

It is logical to assume that if there was one material that was ideal in all respects, then the alternative simply would not be used.

Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate materials for the manufacture of forms according to several parameters:

strength;
durability;
price;
weight;
resistance to ultraviolet rays.

With minimal weight, rods made of high-modulus graphite are the strongest and most durable, and in this regard there are no complaints about them. But graphite blanks are fragile and sensitive to shock, so they must be used carefully and avoid mechanical damage.

Another bottleneck of carbon rods is the joints of the plug connections. If sand or dirt gets in, they are quickly destroyed, and repairing a graphite blank will not be cheap. In addition, the cost of carbon feeders is higher than all others, and not every angler can afford expensive equipment.

Composite feeder rods require less maintenance, cost less than graphite, and are durable and reliable. But their weight is greater than that of carbon ones, and for feeder fishing this is an important indicator. It is better to fish with a composite form using a rod pod or stands with alarms, since holding them in your hands for several hours is a very tedious task.

The cheapest feeders are made of fiberglass and they are also very popular among a certain group of fishermen. However, at a low cost, the rigidity and weight of a fiberglass blank is higher than that of carbon and composite blanks, and it is better to use it for a long session. Or, in any case, after casting, put the rod on the stands to save yourself from unnecessary hassle and physical exertion.

The durability of a feeder rod largely depends on storage conditions, so during transportation you need to use soft covers, and a separate one for each rod.

Feeder material - which is better?

The material from which feeder rods are made directly determines their price. Therefore, here you must make a choice based on your financial capabilities. Let's look at each material and find out their features.

Graphite.
The most expensive material for making a feeder. It has many advantages, the main thing worth noting is its weight. The high-modulus graphite feeder is really very light and fishing with it is very comfortable. Such rods can withstand enormous loads when playing fish, but are very sensitive to mechanical damage, such as impacts on the sides of the boat, stones and other hard objects. Such rods must be handled very carefully and ensure that there is no sand or small pebbles at the junction of the knees, otherwise the rod will wear out very quickly. For beginners - not the best choice.
Composite Feeder rods made of composite are much cheaper than graphite rods, but already have more weight. They no longer require such careful treatment and forgive many handling errors. So for a beginner, such a rod is quite suitable, and it will cost less.
Fiberglass. The cheapest feeders are made from fiberglass. This is the most durable material out of all of the above. But such rods are quite heavy and rigid, which, of course, will cause some inconvenience during the fishing process. For beginners who just want to try feeder fishing, this is what you need.

Rings

Not all fishermen pay attention to the material from which the feeder rings are made, and this is completely in vain. Considering that braided cords are often used as a base, situations arise when after several fishing trips they begin to become shaggy and even tear.

The point here is not the low quality of the braid itself, but the rings with which the feeder rod is equipped. Poor quality material of the guide rings causes damage to the cord even after minor loads. In inexpensive fiberglass feeders, the rings are not designed for braid at all and it is not surprising that the cord cuts through them when casting.

But silicon-coated metal-ceramic (SIC) rings are really capable of coping with significant loads, and for a long time.

So, when choosing a feeder, be sure to pay attention to the quality and material of the guide rings, and in the process of further use of the rod there will be no problems. Even if there is no corresponding marking on the form, you can find out what the rings are made of from the manufacturer’s catalog.

Feeder rod rating

At the end of the article, we will present to the fisherman an improvised top-feeder rod that can introduce the reader to the best options for purchasing a reliable and durable tool that ensures high-quality bottom fishing in various conditions.

Salmo

The top 10 is headed by the popular Salmo brand among our domestic feeder anglers. The manufacturer presents a wide range of feeder fishing rods at the mid-budget price level. Among them, it is worth highlighting such models as Salmo Taifun and Salmo Elite, which are suitable for catching fish of different sizes under most conditions.

Shimano

The second line goes to the no less popular brand in our country, Shimano. The company provides the fisherman with both budget and elite gear with specific operating parameters. Definitely, among the variety of models from this manufacturer, a novice feeder fan should pay attention to the Shimano Vengeance Feeder model, which pleases the angler with a low price, but decent quality and high reliability even in inept hands.

Mikado

Under number three we offer a product from Mikado. The familiar logo is quite often found on the shelves of mid-price fishing products, enjoying respect among fishermen and a rightfully deserved high reputation. A model such as the Mikado X-Plode Medium Feeder can be considered a universal tool for many fishing conditions, the demand for which will be constant.

Daiwa

Position four is behind the Japanese Daiwa, familiar to all anglers. The company produces mid-budget feeders made of composite and carbon fiber compounds, as well as premium tools made of high-tech lightweight graphite materials. It is worth paying attention to such feeder rods as the Daiwa AqualiteFeeder carbon model and the Daiwa WNHF highly sensitive graphite tackle.

Mifine

The Mifine brand closes the top five. The company is rightfully considered a Klondike of budget, but nevertheless high-quality products, recommended for beginners in feeder fishing. By becoming the owner of such manufacturer's models as Mifine Hulk Feeder and Mifine Hulk Super Feeder, an angler will effectively cover a large number of fishing conditions in standing reservoirs and on moderately flowing rivers.

Bannax Piccolo

Bannax Piccolo, which occupies sixth place in the rating, is presented in a slightly smaller variety of models than its competitors, but the brand is distinguished by the release of a graphite product with low weight and such a bonus to all models as an additional half-meter elbow, which is so helpful in some non-standard fishing situations. The investment in models PIC40–45/150 and PIC36–41/130 will more than pay off not only in trophies in the form of fish, but also in the very comfort of feeder hunting.

Volzhanka

The seventh position is for the domestic brand Volzhanka. Among the company's products, anglers will find plug-in and telescopic versions of fishing rods with decent performance characteristics and low prices. The Volzhanka Feeder Match instruments and the Volzhanka Master model line are especially distinguished in the model range.

Zemex

Eighth line in the rating of feeder rods from the elite Zemex. The product of this company has absolutely no shortcomings in terms of characteristics and operating parameters of the form, and the basement ranking is only due to the high cost of the products, the owners of which are mainly anglers already advanced in feeder fishing. But if a novice feederist is not constrained by funds, then it is worth taking a closer look at purchasing the Zemex Hi-Pro Feeder model.

Sabaneev

Number nine belongs to another of our domestic companies, Sabaneev. Inexpensive fishing rods are also well suited for beginner anglers to develop their skills. The Sabaneev Feed Master model range includes feeders of various lengths and power, from which you can choose a specimen suitable for the intended fishing conditions.

Quivertip

The tip of the feeder, or quivertip, plays a big role when working with tackle. It not only serves as a bite indicator, but also participates in casting and retrieving fish.

For quivertypes the following are important:

material of manufacture;
seat diameter;
length;
diameter of passage rings.

Each feeder rod is equipped with several quivertips (2–4) and it is advisable to find out from the catalog exactly how many there should be. Unscrupulous sellers often do not fully complete the feeder and instead of three tips they give two, or even one.

In the future, they sell the “extra” quivertypes separately, receiving additional profit. To prevent this from happening, you need to get all the information about the feeder you are interested in and know how many tips come with it. Each tip is characterized by dough (in ounces or grams) and is marked with the appropriate color.

Red is the hardest tip, green is the softest. The third type of tops, yellow in color, has an average test value. The rigidity (test) of the quiver tip is important when working with tackle, because after casting the angler tightens the line so that the tip bends.

When fishing in the current, hard tips are used, in still water - soft ones. But everything is very individual and the selection of a quivertype of the required rigidity is done on the reservoir, depending on the specific conditions. Feeders of the middle and highest price categories are equipped with one carbon quivertip and two composite ones.

If the tip is broken, it is easy to get a replacement by contacting a fishing equipment store. When choosing, the main thing is that the diameter of the tip and the feeder seat coincide.

The rigidity and sensitivity of the tip depends on the material from which it is made.

A separate article on our website is devoted to quivertypes, we recommend reading ▶

Main characteristics of a feeder rod

The main classification of feeder rods is divided into test (class), action, length, material. Selecting the appropriate form is not as difficult as it seems at first glance. Recently, manufacturers have stopped specifying the action, since it is less important when fishing than other characteristics.

The classification of the form is indicated by markings on the rod. All necessary parameters can be viewed directly in the store before purchasing. It is important not to forget about fishing conditions such as casting distance, presence of current, size of fish.

Read a review of the budget Inspiron feeder, which is popular among bottom fishing enthusiasts.

What should be the length of the rod

Usually the length of the rod is tied to the test. Most often, length is measured within a class. The optimal feeder length should be determined based on specific parameters that should be taken into account.

Selection conditions:

Fisherman's height. Level of training.
Casting distance.
Type of fish. The weight of the future catch.
Weight of gear (feeder).
Conditions of the reservoir. Strong or weak currents, standing water, snags, steepness of the coastline, space for takeoff and swing, and other factors.

For beginners, it is better to opt for average parameters. The length of the feeder rod from 3.3 to 3.9 meters will allow you to fish in quite different conditions. With such dimensions, a beginner will not lose control of the bait and will confidently cast even over long distances.

For ultra-long casts, you can choose blanks with a length of 4 to 4.5 meters. These rods are suitable for fishing in fast currents. By placing the fishing rod vertically on the shore, you can reduce the length of the fishing line in the water. Some models have additional elbows. Thanks to this modification, you can get two completely different rod lengths. This will help expand the list of convenient fishing spots.

How to choose a feeder based on test and rod class

When selecting the feeder test parameter, you need to add the weight of the feeders and bait. Manufacturers usually indicate parameters below the upper limit, but it’s still better to be on the safe side. A small safety margin does not greatly affect the fishing process. An overloaded blank will throw the bait closer than necessary, and the tip may break off.

Classification:

Ultralight (picker). Test of such sticks up to 30 gr. and the length is no more than 2.7 m. The fishing rods are designed to work with or without ultra-light feeders. The casting range of the feeder is from 10 to 30 m. It works well along the coastline and in conditions of increased vegetation. Sometimes used as a second number.
Light feeder has a test of up to 60 g. The length does not exceed 3.6 m. It is considered a universal form for fishing at 30–50 meters. Some models allow you to successfully use heavier feeders on reservoirs with weak currents. Typically used for fishing in still water.
Medium class has an upper weight limit of up to 100 grams. The casting distance with such forms is usually 50–60 meters. Experienced fishermen can put bait under the shore, but this requires constant training and a feel for the gear. It will be difficult for a beginner to work with this class at short distances. Suitable for all bodies of water.
Heavy class allows you to work with weights up to 120 g. Perhaps the most versatile and widespread fishing rods. The large weight of the feeder allows you to make long casts and feed even in the current. The casting range can exceed 70–75 meters.
Extra heavy feeder weight more than 120 g. Used by professionals for fishing in strong currents. Designed for casting heavy feeders. Not the best choice for beginners. Working with such forms requires a lot of practice.

Build fishing rods

The structure of the form is determined by the nature of bending under load. This characteristic was no longer taken into account and identified as a separate parameter, as manufacturers began to produce models adapted to the class of fishing rods.

Characteristics:

Super fast build. The body of the fishing rod begins its bending from the top.
Fast (fast). The rod begins to bend in the upper third.
Medium (semi-parabolic). The bend starts in the middle of the blank.
Slow tuning is characterized by a smooth curve of the entire body.

You can determine the system yourself with a simple test. To do this, the tip is secured with fishing line or someone is asked to hold the tip in a stable position. In this case, the fisherman must slowly lift the body of the fishing rod, holding it by the handle. Having determined in what place and at what speed the form is bent, you can calculate its structure.

Experienced fishermen use fishing rods with fast action. Slow forms are suitable for beginners. Thanks to their features, slow-action fishing rods forgive most mistakes when fishing. They also easily compensate for excess load.

Form material

When choosing a feeder fishing rod, you should pay special attention to the material. This parameter affects price, weight, strength, sensitivity, flexibility and service life. All other things being equal, it is better for beginners to opt for heavier models.

Pros and cons of materials:

Fiberglass is an inexpensive material. Has good flexibility and strength. A fiberglass fishing rod will last a long time. Does not require careful treatment or specific maintenance. Cons: reduced sensitivity and rather heavy weight.
Carbon fiber (carbon). The undeniable advantages of such forms are lightness and sensitivity. Allows you to catch very cautious fish in sluggish biting conditions. Cons: fragility and high price. Carbon rods must be handled very carefully. Such forms may not survive being thrown onto rocks, overloading gear, or improper transportation. Suitable for careful fishermen.
Composite materials combine fiberglass and carbon in one fishing rod. Thanks to this, the rod has average parameters and characteristics. The advantages of these models are affordable price, durability, good sensitivity, and lightness.

Quivertypes and their role in fishing

Quivertip signaling tips are sold complete with a fishing rod. Elasticity varies by color. Using the color scheme, the weight of the feeder with bait is determined. It is better to have a spare set for different conditions. The elasticity and rigidity of the tip starts with white (light weight), then goes to green (medium weight) and ends with red (heavy weight of the feeder).

Quivertips on expensive feeder rods often differ not by color, but by weight in ounces. Sometimes such markings make you think that the tip has its own test. This is a misconception.

Often the tip is not involved in casting and retrieving. Typically, these numbers and colors are used to determine the weight of the feeder and bite sensitivity. If you load the rod above the upper threshold, the tip may break when casting. It's rare, but it happens. Most often, breakage occurs due to the line overlapping the tulip. Vershinki are consumables; even experienced feeders prefer to buy alarms with a reserve in case of breakdowns.

Comfortable handle

The handle should be made of non-slip material. Typically, feeder fishing rods are equipped with handles made of balsa wood or thick, corrugated rubber. It is important to pay attention to the grip. The handle should fit comfortably in the palm of your hand and not turn when casting.

The reel is attached to the handle or slightly above. It is important that the mount allows the installation of different models. The versatility of the fastener will help you not to bother with choosing and adjusting the reel to a specific type of blank.

Passing rings

During the inspection of the fishing rod, you need to check a number of access rings. The correct location is strictly on the same line relative to the axis of the handle. To check, you can place the assembled form on a flat surface and look into the first ring. The center of all rings must be strictly one after another. Any deviations reduce the service life and affect the quality of casting.

The rings should not turn or wobble. The inner surface of good passage rings is made of high-quality material. Chips or unevenness in the inner diameter will lead to the shooting of the feeder and fraying of the fishing line.

Weight

Statistically, the less weight a feeder rod has, the easier it is to work with. But you cannot reduce weight at the expense of other more important parameters. When choosing lighter models, one should not forget about the test, length and other important characteristics. It would be better if the form weighed a little more, but would be more durable.

We recommend reading

Interview with Evgeniy Nyukhtilin - about choosing a reel for feeder fishing. Sportsman fisherman Evgeniy Nyukhtilin shared his experience in choosing a feeder reel. How to do it correctly and not make mistakes.