Spinning vs Casting Rods: Which is Better?

There are different kinds of fishing rods and each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Two of the most common fishing rods are spinning and casting rods. There are differences between the two, especially for the style and purpose of fishing they’re intended for. In this article, we’ll compare the two: spinning vs casting rods.

We’ll cover the variety of characteristics that make each fishing rod unique and the functional cues that you can use in deciding whether a spinning or a casting rod is more suitable for your needs and preferences.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Spinning Rods?

When comparing a spinning rod versus a casting rod, the spinning type is easier to use, hence it’s better for beginners.

The rod has an attached fixed spoon and it helps a reel become more flexible and effortless to use. It’s perfect for catching small to medium-sized fish, and it comes with a cheaper price tag.

Pros

• Cheap and cost-effective
• Effective and easier to use for beginners  
• Durable  
• Compatible with classic reels  
• Fixed spoon  
• Comfortable to hold for hours

Cons

• Not meant to use in tournaments
• Not the best to use when fighting big, heavy fish  
• Not very accurate

What Are the Pros and Cons of Casting Rods?

The main difference between spinning and casting rods is their accuracy. A casting rod or a baitcasting rod, as it’s commonly referred to, is designed to provide better angling accuracy.

Casting rods are able to handle heavier lures as well. Most of them are made of carbon fiber, fiberglass, and graphite.

A baitcasting reel is placed on the top portion of the rod, which increases both power and accuracy. This allows you to cast at a longer distance and do so accurately.

Pros

• Known for accuracy and aim  
• Provides greater casting distance
• Has a longer lifespan  
• Can catch bigger fish

Cons

• Pricier compared to a spinning rod
• Handling requires more experienced hands

Spinning vs Casting Rods: The Similarities

There are similarities between the two most popular types of fishing rods and they are as follows:

Size and Length

You can purchase spinning rods and casting rods in various sizes and lengths. In general, casting rods are between 4 and 14 ft long and the same is true for the spinning type.

But seasoned anglers tend to choose rods that are within the range of 6 to 8 ft.

Various Options in Terms of Action

Both types of fishing rods can be fast, medium, and slow. The best action for you will depend on the species that you’re trying to capture.

A slow-action rod is able to curve downwards throughout its extent, but a moderate action will only bend until the mid-part of the rod. A fast-action is one that arches on the topmost portion of the telescopic rod.

Durable Handles

The handles of spinning rods and casting rods are typically made of the same materials. The rod handles can be made of either cork or EVA foam.

Cork used as a handle material is preferred by anglers as it offers a much stronger grip, plus it offers sensitivity. EVA foam, on the other hand, is durable, lightweight, and needs little to no maintenance.

Spinning vs Casting Rods: The Differences

You already understand that each type of rod has advantages and disadvantages, so you may still have trouble deciding between the two.

When it comes to this debate, it’s best to determine their differences so you can choose one. That’s exactly what we did.

Price

A casting rod is a lot more expensive than a spinning rod, as mentioned earlier. A casting rod usually costs several hundred dollars; however, you would want to pay a higher price if you want quality.  

Casting Distance

This is one of the primary differences between the two. You’ll be able to reach a lot more fish if you have a much greater casting distance.  

Accuracy

There are anglers that use casting rods for casting lures about 30 meters away to their target zone and still don’t experience any difficulty.  

Lifespan

Even when baitcasting and spinning rods are made of the same materials and from the same manufacturer, the baitcaster one is expected to have a much longer lifespan. This is because it’s able to resist greater tensions.

Position of the Reel

Because of the position of the reel on a casting rod, it’s able to absorb the force of fish that fights whenever it is reeled in. This means it’s less likely for a line to snap with a casting rod.

Heavier Catch

A baitcasting rod is able to use heavier lures, which means you can target big fish like trout and bass. With a spinning rod, it’s best to use a lightweight lure. A spinning rod allows you to perform surface fishing with the use of live bait.

Line Mechanism

A baitcasting rod has a rotating spool that has a quality line mechanism so they have a good drag system.  

Ease of Use

Spinning rods are much easier to use as baitcasting rods need to be used in the appropriate manner to be effective. Beginner anglers and most fishing enthusiasts can’t handle the complexity of using a casting rod.  

Accessibility

A spinning rod is a lot more accessible compared to a baitcasting rod.

Maneuverability

There’s less learning curve involved with spinning rods as they are much easier to maneuver.  

Eyelets

With a spinning rod, the reel is positioned underneath the rod. This results in the pulling force placed largely on the guides. Fish can snap the eyelets a lot easier, most especially if the species weigh more than what the rod can handle.

Conclusion

Spinning vs casting rods – which do you think is better? Both types of rods offer a thrilling experience out on the water.

But, a spinning rod is more suitable if you’re new to fishing and you want to learn the basics. As soon as you’ve improved your technique and skills, transition to a casting rod and you’ll be able to enjoy its power and accuracy.