Fishing Rods—Understanding Power vs. Action
There are several considerations when choosing the best fishing rod, including rod power and action. Understanding the influence power and action have on how the rod performs is key to making sure you have the best rod for your target species, fishing technique, and conditions. Our Fishing Experts highlight the basics of rod power and action along with a few helpful tips for choosing the right rod for you.
Expert Tip | When looking at the fishing rod, all the specifications including rod power and action are printed on the rod blank near the reel handle.
What is Fishing Rod Power?
The power of a fishing rod describes a rod's strength and its ability to handle line weight, lure weight, and different types of fish. Rod power is described with terms like Light, Medium, Medium Heavy, and more, all noting how much the rod can carry. The larger the fish you're targeting, the stronger the rod you want.
Fishing Rod Power Chart
Our Fishing Experts offer a general rod power chart below for a quick reference to help you know which power to look for.
| Power Rating | Application | Target Species |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra Light | Best for delicate presentations | Ideal for panfish and small species |
| Light | Ideal for finesse techniques | Small bass, walleye, or light tackle setups |
| Medium | Versatile for a range of situations | Bass and walleye |
| Medium Heavy | Stronger with a moderate tip for some flexibility | Larger bass, pike, and catfish |
| Heavy | Stiff rod to handle heavy lines and big lures | Muskie, pike, or saltwater fishing |
| Extra Heavy | Stiffest rod ideal for targeting powerful game fish | Large saltwater species |
What is Fishing Rod Action?
The action of a fishing rod describes how much the rod bends under tension. Action is described with terms like Extra Fast, Fast, Moderate, Slow, and more, all noting how quickly the bend comes out of the rod starting at the tip. For example, an extra-fast rod bends just at the tip, while a moderate rod bends from the handle to the tip.
Expert Tip | Rod action can affect the sensitivity, but another consideration when choosing a fishing rod is the rod’s blank material—whether it’s fiberglass or graphite.
Fishing Rod Action Chart
Our Fishing Experts offer a general rod action chart below for a quick reference of what action to look for.
| Action Rating | Bend Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Fast | Bends very close to the tip, maximum sensitivity and quick hooksets | Jigs and worms |
| Fast | Bends near the top 1/3 of rod for a balance of power and sensitivity | Versatile for bass fishing, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics |
| Moderate Fast | Bends slightly closer to the handle | Crankbaits, topwater lures, and moving baits |
| Moderate | Bends near the middle of the rod | Crankbaits and trolling setups |
| Slow | Bends from the base of the rod | Trolling, live bait presentations |
By matching your rod's power and action to your target species and fishing style, you'll have better control, improved sensitivity, and more confidence on the water. Whether you're finesse fishing for panfish or battling trophy-sized game fish, selecting the right rod ensures you’re prepared for whatever bites. If you have additional questions about fishing rods and gear, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a Fishing Expert.