Which spinning rod is better - plug-in or telescopic? Review, comparison and rating of spinning rods

November 3, 2018
Equipment
Svetlana Lingovskaya

Fishing professionals and novice fishermen know firsthand what spinning is. It is he who enjoys the greatest popularity among all fishing equipment. But before buying a tool, you need to take into account many nuances and the main thing is to determine for yourself: which spinning rod is better - plug-in or telescopic. We present an overview of these tools according to all criteria, which will help you make the right choice.

Types of spinning rods

Spinning is the fisherman's main tool, with which you can use various baits to catch fish. Most often they are made of carbon (carbon fiber) and fiberglass. Carbon fibers are characterized by rigidity, low weight and elasticity, but can break even with minor mechanical impact. Fiberglass spinning rods are heavier in weight, but are durable and reliable.

Types of spinning rods:

telescopic - the rod in it extends, like a telescope (spyglass), hence the name;
plug-in - the elbows are connected to each other by tubes.

How to choose the right spinning rod for a beginner? Professionals note that first you should give preference to a cheaper option, that is, a telescopic rod. Having tried it in operation, you can move on to a more expensive and reliable option - a plug-in one. Even though telescopic fishing rods break down faster and more often, they can be easily repaired. If a plug rod breaks, you just have to throw it away.

What types of spinning rods are there?

Spinning is a tackle designed for catching predatory fish using various types of bait.

They can be made from various materials:

carbon fiber plastic (carbon) – composite materials made from woven threads of polymer epoxy resins;
fiberglass is a multifunctional thread formed from glass, which has particular strength and flexibility.

Carbon rods are flexible, rigid and lightweight. At the same time, they are quite fragile and can break even from minor mechanical stress.

Fiberglass fishing rods are very flexible, durable, practical, and at the same time very heavy.

It is best to choose spinning rods made from a fusion of fiberglass and carbon fiber. Such fishing rods are quite strong and reliable and break extremely rarely.

There are spinning rods:

telescopic - with cone-shaped elbows inserted into one another due to the different diameters of the top and bottom; when extended by the thin ends, such rods are moved apart according to the principle of a spyglass (telescope);
plug-in - the elbows of which are connected to each other using tubes at the ends that fit tightly into each other.

A telescopic fishing rod is much cheaper than a plug rod, but they are more often subject to various types of breakdowns (during transportation, when fishing for large fish, during sudden jerks). Again, the price also depends on the material from which the rod is made.

Telescopes are easily repaired, while plug-in spinning rods have to be thrown away if they break.

Advantages and disadvantages of telescopic spinning rod

In order to decide which spinning rod is better - plug-in or telescopic, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with each type in more detail.

Advantages of telescopes:

small size, especially when folded, so it is easy to transport;
a variety of models that differ in rod length (this depends on the nature of the fishing itself and the size of the water area where the fish will be caught);
affordable price;
Possibility of repair in case of breakdown.

While there are obvious advantages, there are also disadvantages to the work. Tests of telescopic spinning rods show that the rods are not reliable and durable, especially the body.

Also, despite its compactness, the weight of the tool is quite large. And if you compare the device with the plug-in type, it is clearly inferior in casting range.

Plug or telescopic

When it comes to the question of which is better: a plug-in or telescopic spinning rod, the former should be given greater preference. This statement is recognized by all anglers without exception who understand the specifics of fishing with artificial bait.

If a fisherman plans to seriously engage in the spinning industry, then he should prepare for the fact that he will have to make significant financial investments in order to acquire a truly working and high-quality arsenal of rods designed for specific fishing techniques.

Plug spinning rods have the following advantages:

power;
reliability;
sensitivity;
light weight;
wide range of models.

Among the plug rods there are a lot of specialized series, designed for specific methods of catching predators. The most popular are jig, twitching, microjig and other ultralight trends, lead rigs, jerking and others. There are many universal lines for all occasions.

Telescopes cannot boast such a wide variety and specialization. They are inferior to plugs in everything. Their only advantage over plug-in spinning rods is their compactness. The small size of the assembled fishing rod allows you to transport it in any backpack or travel bag.

Telescopes are compact in size

A telescopic spinning rod will be relevant for those fishermen who often travel or go on business trips. Taking with you such a “stick” and a small box with the main catchable baits, you can always jump out to the nearest body of water and devote a couple of hours to your favorite hobby.

Also, the telescope is suitable for those who, due to various circumstances, are not going to seriously immerse themselves in fishing. Such a consumer does not need to invest in the purchase of an expensive fishing rod. He needs the most compact and inexpensive “stick” with which he can throw a banal spinner or a silicone bait mounted on a regular jig head.

As a result, we come to the conclusion that a plug-in spinning rod is the main weapon of an enthusiastic fisherman, and a telescope is a travel option, or, as it is now fashionable to say, a travel option. For serious predator fishing, you can’t do without a plug, but for casual fishing, a telescopic fishing rod will be quite enough.

How to choose a telescopic fishing rod

There are quite a lot of “telescopes” on the Russian market, many of which are too cheap, which affects the quality. Professional fishermen still advise you to take a closer look at better options for fishing rods, which have positive reviews, and not rely only on cost.

When choosing a telescopic fishing rod, it is important to pay attention to the joints of the component elements, of which there can be up to 8 pieces in the device. The fastening must be tight, on which the reliability of the device directly depends.

Among the most popular “telescopes”, Russian fishermen note instruments with a test weight of up to 40 g. For example, the telescopic spinning rod “Volzhanka” (test 5-25 g, 1.8 m) is universal, suitable for both beginners and extreme tourists. It is equipped with a comfortable handle, rings with fittings and an individual case. Its cost is about 1.9 thousand rubles.

Categories of “telescopes” depending on the test range

The test range is information about the mass of baits that can be used during fishing so as not to damage the instrument. The first number is the minimum recommended weight, the second is the maximum. It is important to observe these characteristics of the device when choosing, this will greatly simplify and extend the life of the fishing rod.

Types of spinning rods according to tests:

the lightest (ultralight) - bait weighing up to 7 g;
light – from 7 to 18 grams;
medium – 18-40 grams (the most popular class of “telescopes”);
heavy - the weight of the bait can exceed 40 g.

Also, when choosing a “telescope” you should be guided by the casting length. Spinning rods up to 2 m are chosen when fishing from the shore, where there are a lot of trees, or boats, up to 3.6 m - in wide and large water areas, 4.2 m - for ultra-long casts.

There are many models from different manufacturers on the Russian market, but the Shimano Katana spinning rod boasts the greatest variety and popularity. Thanks to Geofibre and Vibraspot material instead of expensive woven tape, fishing occurs with maximum comfort. In addition, thanks to the distribution of weight along the entire length of the rod, you can pull out a fairly large catch.

Choosing a telescopic spinning rod

In order to choose the right spinning rod of this type, you should take into account a number of fishing conditions, the weight of the bait used, the size of the fish and the type of fishing.

Size of the reservoir and presence of current:

On small rivers, streams, small ponds or oxbow lakes with shallow depths, where there is no need to use heavy baits and make long casts, rods with a length of no more than 2.1 meters and a weight of up to 15 grams are suitable.
For medium-sized reservoirs, sticks with a length of 2.4 to 2.7 meters with a dough of 15 to 30 grams are more relevant.
Long heavy-class rods with a length of 3.0-3.0 meters and a test weight of more than 30 grams are used for fishing at great depths in large deep rivers, large reservoirs, and flowing lakes.

Type of fish:

To catch small predators weighing up to 1 kg (perch, grass pike), use short rods of the light or ultralight classes with a length of up to 2.1 meters and a weight of up to 15 grams.
For medium-sized pike, pike perch, and asp weighing up to 2-3 kg, light and medium class spinning rods with a length of up to 2.7 meters and a dough weight of up to 30 grams are used.
The large trophy predator is caught from great depths with heavy-class rods up to 3.0 meters long and weight over 30 grams.

Recommended reading: Details about spring feeder fishing

Wiring type:

For uniform placement of various spinners, fast and medium action rods are used.
For jigging, fast action spinning rods are used.
When fishing with twitching baits, rigid rods with fast or ultra-fast action are best suited to perform a full jerk retrieve.

Review of telescopic spinning rod models

Considering the growing popularity of telescopic spinning rods among both professionals and amateurs, we present an overview of the most popular rods purchased by Russian fishermen.

Review of “telescopes” that are in greatest demand among Russian consumers:

1. Spinning rod “Shimano Katana” CX Telespin

A high-quality, rigid and powerful rod, but at the same time sensitive, regardless of the fishing line used. The cost of the model is from 5.5 thousand rubles.

2. Shimano Exage BXST CMini Tele Spinn

Compact, pole length varies from 1.8 to 2.7 m. Thanks to the advanced reel seat, the highest sensitivity is ensured. Price – 7.5-11.5 thousand rubles.

3. Daiwa SC-FA 48UL

Suitable for both beginners and professionals. Price – 5.5 thousand rubles.

4. Daiwa Neo Versal

Excellent combination of price and quality. Cost - from 3.5 to 6 thousand rubles.

5. Kosadaka Voyager

Balanced “telescope” model made of high quality carbon fiber. The fittings are lightweight, and fishing is as comfortable as possible.

The best models of telescopic spinning rods, their prices

There are a huge number of spinning rods on sale, which are very popular.

Their main characteristics are the following:

Shimano Exage Mini Telespin

Expensive and at the same time high-quality spinning rod, which is made from carbon fiber. The test indicator is 7-21 grams, the action is fast, intended for experienced fishermen. The price is about 10,000 rubles.

Daiwa Megaforce Telespin

A representative of the middle price category, the price of which is up to 10,000 rubles. The test is 5-40 grams, the design is characterized by a fairly large margin of safety.

Kosadaka Voyager

Offer from the budget category, price about 4,000 rubles. The length of the product is 2.4 meters, test 3-17 grams. The design is represented by a combination of 4 sections.

Shimano Catana CX Telespin

Another budget proposal, the size of which is 10-30 grams. In the manufacture of the main part, a composite is used, due to which the weight is 203 grams. Build quickly, price about 4,000 rubles. Beginner fishermen are recommended to purchase options from the budget category.

Features of plug spinning rod: pros and cons

Still wondering which spinning rod is better: telescopic or plug-in? We present an overview of the latest option. This species is most often chosen by fishing professionals.

Advantages of a plug rod:

strength and resistance to mechanical stress, also wear resistance when catching fairly large fish;
the length of the models can reach 7 m, so they can be used both in clear waters and in reservoirs where the shore cannot be approached due to vegetation;
long-distance casting occurs without serious effort, the tackle does not break;
the test of a plug-in spinning rod is quite high when compared with “telescopes” (designed for the large weight of the bait);
high power and thickness of line.

Professionals also note the accuracy of casting when using the plug type, although this function is more difficult for a beginner to master. Despite the large number of advantages, there are also disadvantages to the work. So, such a fishing rod is difficult to transport; if it breaks, it cannot be repaired. The disadvantages also include high cost, but it primarily depends on the strength of the product and its service life.

Plug spinning rod is a product of high technology. The price depends on the material from which the fishing rod is made. Most often, this type is produced by companies in limited quantities rather than in mass production. Russian consumers order such tools to order and only in specialized stores.

Main performance characteristics

Each plug-type spinning rod has different performance characteristics. They determine the purpose of the “stick” and the ability to catch in one way or another. Without studying this issue, it is impossible to choose a suitable fishing rod for solving given problems.

The best telescopic spinning rod

The basic operating parameters of any spinning rod are:

unfolded length;
bait test;
construction of the form.

In addition, the characteristics of the spinning rod are influenced by the material from which the blank is made, the type and placement of guide rings, the design of the handle and even the reel seat.

Length

The height of a fishing rod is an important parameter that determines its capabilities. According to this indicator, spinning rods are divided into short, universal and long-range tools. The first have a length of 1.6 to 2.1 meters. They are relevant in close combat, when fishing from a boat, running fishing from the shore on streams and small rivers, as well as when fishing in cramped conditions, where the compactness of the gear plays a key role.

Universal fishing rods have a length from 2.13 to 2.59 meters. This is the optimal growth of a spinning rod, allowing you to fish both long and short distances, and fish from the shore and boat. A similar tool comes in handy on various bodies of water, from frogweed to a large deep river.

A spinning rod with a length of 2.74 meters is designed for fishing at medium, long and ultra-long distances. It is used on large bodies of water for jig fishing, asp hunting, fishing with a retractable leash, and other baits and equipment where remote casting is required.

As a rule, the maximum length of spinning rods that are found on store shelves is 3.3 or 3.6 meters. There are “rods” of 4 and even 5 meters, but they are in demand in surf fishing or in narrowly targeted fishing methods, such as sbirulino. The bulk of fishing rods are represented by heights of 2.13, 2.29, 2.44, 2.59 and 2.74 meters.

Test

Power class and spinning test are related concepts. They determine what weight range a particular model can handle. There is a minimum value below which the form stops turning on, i.e. The casting range is reduced and the wiring of the equipment is not felt. The upper limit shows how much you can load the rod without it breaking.

There are the following power classes of plug-in spinning rods:

Ultralight – ultralight (marked on UL form), test up to 7 grams;
Light – light (L), up to 12–13 grams;
Medium Light – medium light (ML), up to 18–20 grams;
Medium – medium (M), up to 30 grams;
Medium Heavy – medium heavy (MH), up to 40 grams;
Heavy – heavy (H), up to 50–60 grams;
Extra Heavy – extra heavy (XH), over 60 grams.

For reference! There are SUL (Super Ultralight) up to 3 grams and XUL (Extra Ultralight) up to 9 grams.

For well-known manufacturers, the stated test always corresponds to or is close to the real values. On cheap “sticks” it may not match, so it is better to clarify it by independently testing the spinning rod on a pond.

The best plug spinning rods

We present a review of plug rod models to get acquainted with the advantages and disadvantages of each model that is presented on the Russian market.

Rating of plug spinning rods:

1. Shimano Catana rod series

There are 13 models presented here with an optimal price-quality ratio. The Japanese company has developed a high-quality carbon rod with the highest possible action and high reliability. The fishing rods have a beautiful design, comfortable holders, light weight and are highly sensitive. But the guides are fragile and the reel seat is uncomfortable.

2. Daiwa INFINITY-Q 802 ULFS

A balanced spinning rod that is light weight, high quality, reliable and sensitive, has a strong ring system and is universal. But the handle is not for everyone and there is a risk of breaking the connection.

3. G. Loomis SR 842-2 IMX

An American-made model, which is distinguished by high quality workmanship, comfort of use, beautiful design, durability and the presence of a cover. Among the disadvantages, one can note the high cost.

4. Mikado Sakana Hanta Perch Spin 210 (WAA370-210)

Budget spinning rod, which is aimed at catching small fish. It is distinguished by its low price, good quality, comfortable handle, light weight and universal length. But the ring system is poor and reliability is low.

Criteria for choosing a spinning rod

The comparison of plug-in and telescopic spinning rods presented above will help you understand the nuances of how these tools work. But there are also other factors that need to be taken into account when choosing a fishing rod, regardless of its type.

What to look for when choosing a fishing rod:

spinning class (ultra-light, light, medium or heavy) - it depends on the bait and its weight that will be used when fishing;
type of rods (medium, hard or parabolic) - parabolic ones bend along the length and ensure a smooth casting of the bait, medium ones - in the upper part of the spinning rod, therefore they are used for long distances, hard ones - only the upper part bends;
spinning test - the most suitable option is 2-25 g, suitable for any baits and water areas;
action (fast, slow or medium) is the ability of a fishing rod to bend under load.

It is also important to determine such characteristics of the spinning rod as power, material of manufacture, length of the rod itself, reel seat and sensitivity of the tool.

Telescopic spinning rod, its structure, differences from plug-in spinning rod

A telescopic spinning rod is a fishing rod that, like an astronomical telescope, consists of retractable parts of varying lengths and thicknesses. The main components of such a spinning rod are:

Knees are hollow cone-shaped tubes of various diameters that are inserted into each other.
Passage rings are round metal frames with internal liners made of abrasion-resistant material (cermets, silicon carbide), which have a ring-shaped fastening and are located on the knee at the junction at the very end of the smaller one in diameter. A reinforced small tulip ring is installed on the last bend.
A reel seat is a device for firmly and securely attaching a reel to a fishing rod. It consists of a support platform, a stop and a fixing element (nut), located in front or behind relative to the butt.
Handle – in telescopes, the role of a handle can be performed by both the last knee and the handle itself, which is connected to the main part of the rod using a plug-in method. The material of the handle can be different - from cheap microporous rubber, which strongly absorbs moisture and dust, to cork, the distinguishing feature of which is lightness, strength, low thermal conductivity, and a pleasant-to-touch surface.
Also included with the rod is a protective plastic cap that fits over the guide rings and protects them from damage when carried. At the top of the cap there is a hook with which the folded rod can be hung on a hanger hook fixed in the wall, thus saving space.

The length of a telescopic spinning rod in most cases ranges from 1.8 to 3-3.3 meters.

Test

Like plug-in spinning rods, the test of telescopic spinning rods divides them into 4 main classes based on the weight of the bait:

Build

The structure of a telescopic spinning rod is:

super fast - only the upper part of the tip reacts to load;
fast - the entire tip bends;
medium – at least half of the form is subject to bending;
slow - the whip bends more than half.

Material of manufacture

Telescopic spinning rods are made from materials such as:

Fiberglass - rods made from this cheap material are rigid, heavy, but at the same time unpretentious and have an affordable price for any angler.
Composite is a material that is a mixture of cheap and rigid fiberglass and strong and flexible carbon fiber. Fishing rods made of composites are more unpretentious than graphite rods, while being more flexible than fiberglass rods.
Carbon fiber (carbon) – when carbon fiber is used as a material for the manufacture of telescopic spinning rods, light and durable fishing rods are obtained that are highly flexible and perfectly hook fish. The disadvantage of such spinning rods is their fragility when hitting the edges of hard objects, stones, or falling onto a concrete floor.

We recommend reading: Inertial reels for spinning rods - reliable, simple, effective

Well-known fishing rod manufacturers

Global fishing rod manufacturing companies do not specialize in any one type or model, but have a fairly wide range. Thus, most often small-sized plug-in and telescopic spinning rods on the Russian market are presented by Japanese companies. Shimano is famous for its high quality, has a good long-standing reputation, as well as a varied price range.

There is also another Japanese manufacturer on the Russian market, Daiwa, which is engaged in the mass production of spinning rods, both plug-in and telescopic. It is distinguished by its reliability, as well as the constant use of innovations in its products.

The American company G Loomis offers a small and highly specialized tool for fishing. Every year it conquers new markets. Another American brand, Fenwick, is distinguished by high quality, low prices and reliability.

The top five global brands of fishing rods also include the Polish company Mikado, which sells products throughout Europe. The rods have good characteristics and are therefore in great demand. This company has only recently entered the Russian market.

TOP 3 budget fishing rod options for beginners

Professionals note that beginners in fishing should pay attention to the budget options for fishing rods, which are presented below.

Budget options for spinning rods:

1. Shimano ALIVIO CX SUPER SENSITIVE 300 ML

The best budget model with a length of 2.4 m (folded – 1.23 m). The bait used here is from 3 to 15 g. The rod is stable, has a high-power blank, and can be fished both from the shore and from a boat.

2. Black Hole Junior 632M/10-35

A rod for fishing enthusiasts and also an ideal option for beginners. The tackle is short in length and copes well with any bait. When folded, the design is quite compact.

3. Maximus Work Horse SWH21M

The most budget model, which is distinguished by its universal design. The handle is ergonomic, the design is reliable and highly sensitive, but it is not suitable for catching large fish.

The best cheap spinning rods for jigging

We present a review of plug-in and telescopic spinning rods for jigging, which are in greatest demand among Russian consumers.

ZEMEX Spider Pro 270 5-28g fast takes first place and is suitable for anglers who are just starting out. The model is suitable for both light and heavy baits. Most often chosen for catching perch. This is a universal option at an affordable price, which has a beautiful appearance, is durable and casting accurately.

In second place is Maximus Wild Power-X SWPX27H. This model is distinguished by high quality, light weight, affordable price and durability. In third place is Aiko Troutex TRO180UL. It is characterized by a rigid structure, an ergonomic handle, and has good sensitivity, but sometimes the line gets caught between the rings.

Which spinning rod is better - plug-in or telescopic?

The answer to this question is individual and depends on many factors, but still, most fishermen, regardless of their skills, are inclined to use a two-armed rod. It is compact and reliable.

However, "telescopes" can also come in handy. Indeed, for some, compactness plays the most important role. In addition, this option is suitable as a backup. If you choose a telescopic spinning rod from leading brands, its quality may not be noticeable in comparison with plug-in rods. Recently, companies have been releasing fairly high-quality models that have excellent characteristics that delight even professionals.