About Salmon Fishing Poles

Fishing for salmon requires special equipment and techniques. Salmon fishing poles vary greatly depending upon a number of factors. This includes the geographical location of where the fishing is taking place, the species of salmon desired, the season and the fishing method.

Function

Salmon fishing poles are designed to catch different sizes of the fish, and to attract them with fancy lures or bait. Salmon are very picky fish when it comes to nipping, so it is very important to have the ideal fishing pole, line and reel for the salmon you are desiring to catch. The main checklist of salmon fishing poles is simple--a sturdy flexible pole that is easily gripped, sturdy lines and intricate lures or fresh bait.

Size

If the method of fishing is from a boat, such as trolling, the pole should be rated at least 20 lbs. and the line should be at least rated for 10 lbs. If the method of fishing is from shore or fly-fishing, the pole should be rated for at least 10 lbs. and the line at least 6 lbs. These are the averages for beginning salmon fishers, so of course as knowledge and skills progress so can the weight and complexity of the equipment.

Rod/Poles

Salmon fishing poles can range from small to large, but for the heaviest of salmon a fishing pole should be rated for 25 lbs. The larger the fish being caught, the larger the pole you should bring. No matter what, the rods must be flexible but reliably sturdy. Graphite steel is a good material for salmon fishing poles. Decide what species of salmon you are looking to catch, as the ideal fishing pole cannot be decided until this is figured out. Salmon are an aerial and very flexible fish, so poles need to match that agility. Bamboo fishing poles are also popular because they are sturdy but inexpensive. If you are fly-fishing, a completely different rod must be used that is lightweight. The rod usually features aluminum coating with good grips.

Reel and Fishing Line

The reel follows the same guidelines as the salmon fishing pole, at least with size. The larger the fish being caught, the larger the reel you should bring. The reel needs to provide enough power to assist in controlling the salmon. There are different reels available for the methods of fishing, such as mooching or fly-fishing. A power reel is great to have on salmon fishing poles because it will always be strong and capable. Good choices for fly-fishing are the drag systems present on certain fishing poles.
Fishing line is a significant part of the fishing process, as a line that is too thick can deter any type of fish. If a salmon sees or senses the fishing line, he will stay away completely. Look for sturdy lines that have an invisibility system when they are a certain amount of feet underwater.

Considerations

Always bring extra equipment such as bait (roe), fishing line or lures in case some of your used equipment breaks or runs out. It is very important also to understand what type of equipment is needed for the species you are catching and the method of fishing. Take everything in the environment into consideration (rain or sun), the method you are using (trolling, bottom fishing, shore fishing or fly-fishing), the location (river, ocean, freshwater or lake) and the season. This will ensure the best chances to catch the ideal salmon.