How to Set Your Fishing Pole

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Setting up a fishing pole, or rod as it is also known, is a task that is both child and adult friendly. Aside from handling sharp hooks, setting up and rigging a fishing pole is pretty easy and safe for even the smallest of anglers. Setting up a fishing pole requires some understanding of how the joints fit together. With this information you can set up any pole for bank or boat fishing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Fishing line
Fishing hooks
Fishing weights (sinkers)
Fishing bait

Step 1

Assemble your fishing pole according to the manufacturer's instructions. Slide each section into the next, proceeding from smallest to largest until your pole is assembled. The base of the pole, or the pole butt, is the widest section of the rod.

Step 2

Seat each section based on the type of joint that is used. For a "put-over" joint, slide each section over the tag of the following section. For a "put-in" joint, slide each section into the tag of the following section.

Step 3

Seat the foot of the reel securely inside the fishing reel seat. Turn the reel hood clockwise to tighten it into place. Be careful not to overly tighten the reel or the reel seat may break.

Step 4

Spool the fishing line onto your fishing rod. Size the pound test based on which fish species you want to catch. String the fishing line through each of the rod guides and tie it onto your reel spool. Rotate the reel handle until your reel spool is within 1/4 to 1/8-inch of capacity.

Step 5

Rig your fishing line with a sinker, hook and bait. Tie, clamp or slide on a weight 6 to 10 inches above your hook, which you tie on using a fishing knot. Thread live, artificial or prepared bait onto the hook and cast your fishing rod.

Tips & Warnings

Choose bait based on the feeding pattern of the fish species you want to catch.

Always check the weight capacity of your fishing rod before fishing for large game fish. Contact the manufacturer for the exact rating.

Resources

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

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