For the first time, the British began fishing with mast rods; a feature of mast fishing is the use of a “wagler” type float (a float that has one attachment point, to which the center of gravity is shifted), it allows long casting and fishing at a distance of 50-60 m, at a depth of 70 cm to 15 m. Now let’s talk in more detail about choosing a match rod.
Wagler float
Choosing a match rod depending on length
In order to figure out what length of match we need, we need to decide what equipment we will use to catch, for example, if it is a small white fish, such as ram, bleak, then it is better to use blind equipment to catch them. Blind-mounted rods are selected from 4.2 m to 4.5 m in length; in cases where the reservoir is quite deep, some anglers use sticks 4.8-5.5 m long, but it will be much harder to fish with them, especially if you are fishing against wind.
If you use a sliding rig, you still shouldn’t take an excessively short rod, since we need to pick up the slack when biting. In this case, the choice of a match rod should vary between rods with a length of 3.9 to 4.2 m. Therefore, rods with a length of 4.2 m will be quite universal, suitable for fishing in any conditions: ponds, bays, reservoirs.
If you are going to fish in commercial reservoirs with shallow depths, then a 3.9 m long rod will be enough for any equipment.
If you want to start. The best matches priced up to 5,000 rubles from the online store “Fisherman’s Store”
For those who are just learning the basics of match fishing, there is no point in buying professional fishing rods costing several tens of thousands of rubles. A high-quality budget carbon fishing rod will perform its tasks just as well, with its help you can “set” the cast, understand the intricacies of the specifics of fishing and understand whether it’s for you or not.
Salmo Sniper Match 4.20
A budget match from Salmo, which has a plug-in design and allows you to work with equipment with a total weight of 25-30 grams. The blank of the tackle has a semi-arabolic structure, which has a positive effect on the binding characteristics, as well as on the casting range - the tackle perfectly sends a heavy float, due to which the overall casting range is significantly increased.
The installed guide rings match the nature of the tackle - a high leg, a Fuji insert and their correct placement allow you to evenly distribute the load on the blank and eliminate overloading of its individual sections. The handle is made of EVA, which ensures ease of maintenance and ease of use.
"Volzhanka" 3.6m
A model in the entry-level price range, designed specifically for beginners who are just mastering this type of gear. However, the company did not radically simplify the performance characteristics. The blank is based on high-modulus IM6 carbon fiber, which provides a decent level of strength regardless of the applied load.
The second important feature is reliable guide rings with silicon carbide inserts, which reduce friction to zero and provide excellent throwing characteristics. The test for the baits used is 5-25 grams, but a slight overload is acceptable by the manufacturer. The handle is made of EVA polymer, traditional for models of this class, it provides a comfortable grip and does not cause discomfort when fishing in sub-zero temperatures. It was with this model that many famous Russian floaters began their fishing career.
Mikado DA VINCI S-Match 390
An interesting and promising option not only for beginners, but also for advanced fishermen who have decided on the characteristics and their own operating conditions. The blank here is also based on high-modulus carbon fiber, and its length is 3.9 meters. The test has been increased to 10-30 grams, which, taking into account the possibility of slight overload, makes it possible to work with wagglers and sliders weighing up to 40 grams and make accurate casts even in windy weather.
The action of the blank is fast and is characterized by increased composition, and therefore it can be noted that this tackle is an excellent option for catching large fish of the carp family. Unlike previous options, the handle of this tackle is made of cork, it has decent performance characteristics, fits nicely in the hand and has an elegant appearance. The guide rings are traditional match rings, characterized by high legs and a small-diameter insert; their anti-whip concept will provide the opportunity for fast-paced fishing in competition conditions, when every second counts. You can always buy the above fishing gear, as well as many other accessories, ammunition and equipment in the online store “Fisherman’s Store”
Plug or telescopic match rod
If you are going to purposefully fish on a mast, then definitely choose a plug rod
Pros of the plug:
- It has fewer joints, which is why the blank has a better structure (and this is relevant both for anglers wondering which spinning rod is better to choose , and for those who are thinking about choosing a feeder)
- More durable than a telescope, it is also worth noting that in general, plug rods are of higher quality than telescopic rods.
Minuses:
- Transport length. Typically, a plug rod consists of three legs (there are also two-part ones) and not every machine can accommodate them, and a telescope can sometimes even be transported in a backpack.
- The plug has to be equipped directly on the pond, thread the fishing line through the rings, and mount the float. Although this is a minus only for the impatient, because direct assembly on a pond allows us to equip a fishing rod for a specific body of water and fishing conditions. But we equip the telescope while still at home.
What types of fish are a match rod usually used to catch?
Based on the fact that such rods have a certain classification, each type of fish is caught differently. Classic species are intended for smaller catches - this could be crucian carp, roach, tench, bream. Heavier types can be designed for catching carp and grass carp. The farther the cast is, the larger the trophy will be.
Choosing a match rod based on action and stiffness
If you are going to catch large carp, then you are better off using rigid, slow-action rods; they will allow you to confidently absorb the jerks of the fish, and at the same time will not bend like a donut.
In cases where we are going to catch small white fish, rudd, roach, then soft rods of medium or fast action are suitable. This will give us the opportunity to use fishing line with the smallest diameters, since these rods, due to their softness, will absorb the blows and jerks of the fish, but a hard match will only break the equipment during hooking or jerking of the fish.
Rigid rods with fast action ensure fishing at the longest distances from the shore, using heavy floats. They perfectly push the wind when casting and provide high-quality hooking. It is worth remembering that long casting is often designed to catch large fish, and rigid rods with fast action are not designed to dampen its jerks and forgive mistakes, so the angler will have to use all his skill and adjust the friction as efficiently as possible.
Rod build
Fast, but soft, match rods are a kind of universal tackle. They are excellent for fishing with blind equipment; their softness also allows them to dampen fish jerks, and their action ensures high-quality hooking and the ability to control prey when fishing. So this is an excellent tackle for catching small bream , carp, as well as heavy roach and ram.
One important point to consider when choosing inexpensive match rods. There are often situations when a shorter stick has a very good action, and a slightly longer one has a snotty and sausage-like action. For example, a rod of one model, with a length of 3.9 m, has an excellent action, but if you take a blank of the same model, but only 4.2 m long, then it is no longer clear what kind of misunderstanding this is.
Features of choosing telescopic rods for match fishing
A telescopic match rod, unlike its analogues, has fewer rings and a different structure. It is much easier to assemble and transport:
Key points to pay attention to when choosing:
- Build a rod. It is worth paying attention to the slow build. Here the entire form works for bending. As a result, this gives a longer casting distance and smoothness.
- Rod material. Graphite, carbon fiber, and carbon are the most modern materials from which fishing rods are made. Carbon rods have less weight compared to fiberglass, good sensitivity and sufficient strength . A fiberglass rod is resistant to damage, has an affordable price and is easy to maintain and use. Graphite rods have high sensitivity, which allows you to feel the fish well. But they are dangerous for fishing in a thunderstorm, since granite is a good conductor of electricity.
- Number of pass rings. If the rings are made exclusively of one metal, without any special inserts, then it is better to refuse such a rod. Over time, the rings in this case form grooves that will interfere with casting and spoil the fishing line.
Choosing a match rod depending on the test
The lightest rods are rods that are designed for a test of 2-15 g; floats with an equipment weight of 5-10 g are suitable for this test. These fishing rods are well suited for fishing not far from the shore in light winds.
Rods with dough 5-25 gr. quite versatile and often have a length of 4.2 m.
The choice of a match rod with a test weight of 30-40 g occurs in cases where it is necessary to fish at the longest distances in windy weather. With such rods it is easy to cast over a distance of 50 m (you can go further, but when fishing at longer distances, it is difficult to notice the bite).
Rating of the best match rods for 2021
The presented rating of quality products was compiled according to the opinions of buyers who left reviews on the pages of fishing publications. All types of the line of popular models of the main classes from light to especially heavy fishing rods are considered.
The best light class match rods
Grfish Technican Match VGA420FA
Brand – Grfish (Russia). Country of origin: China.
A stylish compact rod on a blank made of a combination of high-modulus graphites NS60, NS80, NS100 is an excellent option for the modern fisherman. This technology ensures the most accurate and long-distance casting, as well as excellent sensitivity. When loaded, the blank is loaded evenly and stably dampens the jerks of the caught prey. The fast action allows you to confidently hook at long distances.
The product is equipped with rings and a good reel seat. The handle is made of high-quality AAA cork with additional EVA inserts. It is characterized by its low weight and diameter.
Grfish Technican Match VGA420FA
Offered at 5290 rubles.
Advantages:
Flaws:
Shimano Speedcast Match 390
Brand – Shimano (Japan). Country of origin: Japan.
An excellent option for Japanese-made fishing lovers. The series includes five models of dark gray blanks of small diameter, made of high-pressure carbon fiber HPC200, reinforced with Biofibre. Sensitive tips allow for exciting play with small to medium sized fish.
Fuji guides prevent excessive line friction, thereby extending line life. The proprietary model of the Fuji DPS reel seat ensures clear transmission of vibration. The handle is made of natural cork with additional EVA inserts.
Average price: 12,600 rubles.
Shimano Speedcast Match 390
Advantages:
