Choosing the Right Rod for Catfishing

Posted August 25, 2020

Over recent years, catfish have been a popular target for many anglers. To help increase your chances of catching a catfish on your next trip, we’ve curated a list of some of our best tips, including determining which rod is best for the job.

Let’s learn how to catch a catfish:

Where to Catch a Catfish

Catfish can survive in many different water systems. From shallow warm waters, to fast flowing rivers, you will be able to find catfish thriving. During the day, catfish like to swim around in muddy water areas. You can find them hanging out in deep structures such as river bends, the base of drop-offs, and deep holes.

Surprisingly, your chances of catching a catfish increase in the evening. During the night, catfish will use their heightened sense of smell and taste and their whiskers to locate their food. So their chances of biting your line are a lot higher.

Choosing the Right Rod

Because catfish range in sizes, you’re going to have to plan where you are fishing before committing to a rod. If you are fishing in waters where the average catfish is about 20 pounds, but there could be a high chance of catching a fish that’s heavier (about 40-60 lbs.), then choose a medium heavy rod.

Suppose you are fishing on a body of water where most catfish can average between 80-100 lbs. Then, you’ll want to choose a heavier rod.

On the other end of the spectrum, if you are fishing in a river where the average catfish is about nine or ten pounds, but you still have a great chance of catching a fish that is about 20-25 lbs. You’ll need a rod with some sensitivity. Your rod should be sensitive enough at the tip to determine when a fish is nibbling at the bait.

Choosing Your Hook

Choosing the right rod is the most important part of increasing your chances of catching a catfish. Once you know the weight of the catfish you’re aiming to catch and have selected your rod, it’s time to find your hook.

There are quite a few great hook options for you to choose from, but we suggest the following to start:

Circle Hooks
Jig Head
Float Rig

If you’re ready to give catfishing a try, make sure you set yourself up for success and get your gear from Signature Fishing Rods. We have new affordable and reliable fishing rods, fishing reels, and lures that will help you reel in a catfish. Give us a call at 630-234-6214 with any questions!

Buying A Used Fishing Rod: What You Need to Know

Posted July 7, 2020

Buying a brand new fishing rod can be pretty expensive, leaving many fishers considering the purchase of a used rod. However, there are a few things to think about before purchasing used fishing rods.

Here are some of the things to keep in mind when you’re purchasing a used fishing rod.

Check the Overall Quality of Your Fishing Rod

One of the most important parts of buying a fishing rod is to check the rod’s overall quality before you consider buying it. The rod condition is indicative of how long it will last you going forward and if it’s what you’re looking for in a rod.

Check the Joints of Your Fishing Rod

When you’re looking for a used fishing rod, specifically check the joints and make sure everything fits together perfectly. If the joints are worn out, the rod will wobble during casting and have the potential of cracking when reeling in your catch.

Be sure to check the rod rings, which, if it’s in bad condition, can damage the fishing line and negatively impact the fisher’s distance from casting. In addition to the state of the fishing rod, you should also consider how much repairs would cost if necessary now or if you think something might become an issue in the immediate future.

Does Your Fishing Rod Need Repairs?

Spending a few hundred dollars on a used fishing rod seems like a cost-effective purchase. However, if you need to put another few hundred dollars worth of repair into, you would have been better off just purchasing a brand new fishing rod from the beginning.

For veteran fishers who know exactly what type of fishing rod they want to help them catch specific types of fish, buying a used rod can be a detriment to their skill level. Taking a used and potentially damaged fishing rod out for a day can be frustrating and unproductive.

What Should You Know Before Purchasing Your Used Fishing Rod?

Before purchasing your used fishing rod, you should first make sure that you know the length and duration. A ten-year-old fishing rod is a riskier purchase than a rod purchased six months ago and only used twice. Also, ask what water the rod was used in and to catch what types and weights of fish. Asking these questions will help you determine the wear of the rod.

Lastly, don’t forget to inquire about the action it has and why the seller is getting rid of the rod.

Should You Purchase a Used Fishing Rod?

Through the inspection and questioning process, you will be able to tell whether purchasing a used rod is the right decision. You should also weigh the benefits and features of the used rod against the benefits and features of a new, customized rod that you could purchase designed exactly how you want. Remember always to look, inspect, and ask before you leap into buying a used fishing rod.

Signature Fishing Rods

If you find yourself getting exhausted looking for the right used fishing rod, and you decide you want to invest in a new fishing rod, contact Signature Fishing Rods. We have new affordable and reliable fishing rods, fishing reels, and lures that will contribute to a successful outing. Do you have any questions? Give us a call at 630-234-6214.

Here’s What You Need to Know About the Action of a Rod

Posted June 15, 2020

There are a lot of factors that can contribute to the success of your fishing outing. To catch the fish you’ve been dreaming about, you need the proper gear and tackle to reel it in.

One of the most important pieces that every angler needs to fish is their rod. Depending on the rod, some will help you gain precision and distance. Before you purchase any rod, you should learn how the action and taper of your rod can help you!

The Action of Your Fishing Pole

The action describes how much your rod bends when you add pressure on its tip and how quickly it returns to its regular position once you let go. There are three levels of action that will help you get started choosing a rod. These levels are: fast, medium, and slow. It’s important to note that finding the best rod for your fishing needs is dependent on the action ratings.

Fast Action Fishing Rods

If you’re planning to fish for larger games, you’ll want to invest in a fast action rod. A fast action rod will typically only bend in the upper ⅓ or less of the blank. Another reason why you might consider fishing with a fast action rod is if you know that you will be fishing in waters with a lot of weeds and other greenery. Fast action rods are great for beginners because they are sensitive and will help the fisher monitor for bites!

Medium Action Fishing Rods

A medium action rod will bend in the top half of their length. If you’re more of a recreational fisher, this rod might be the best fit for you because it can withstand a wide range of situations. Plus, it’s known to help you catch a wide variety of species, both large and small.

Slow Action Fishing Rods

A slow action rod bends throughout the entire length of the rod. It’s by far the most flexible and can even sometimes touch the handle. It would be best if you chose a slow action rod for casting small lures for smaller fish.

If you’re looking for a new fishing rod to help you have a more successful outing, look no further. At Signature Fishing Rods, we have a wide variety of fishing rods, reels, and lures that will be sure to improve your fishing. Shop our online collection or give us a call at 630-234-6214 with any questions!

What You Should Know About Fishing Rod Blanks

Posted June 8, 2020

At Signature Fishing Rods, we are asked about the blanks used in the fishing rods that we sell. Because we offer a wide variety of customizable fishing poles, we thought it would be best to give you more information about fishing rod blanks before purchasing your own!

How to Select the Best Fishing Rod

Selecting the proper fishing rod depends upon the answers to several questions. What are your fishing for? Where are you fishing? How are you fishing?

To start, the key to a good fishing rod is its vibrations. The more vibrations it transmits, the more sensitive the rod is. The blank, handle, reel seat and guide gives a fishing rod its means of transmitting vibrations from the lure to the hand. The greater your rod’s sensitivity, the more you will understand that activity is happening beneath you in the water.

The taper of a rod results from the deliberate build-up of graphite during manufacturing. The more layers in a section, the stiffer that section becomes. The ability to set the hook is vital. The more a rod bends, the harder it is to set the hook.

Power is the amount of force needed to flex the fishing rod. When marked, most fishing rods are referring to power (ultra-lite, lite, medium lite, medium, medium-heavy, heavy, and extra heavy).

Where a rod bends is indicated by its “action.” A fast action rod bends, starting about 1/3 of the way from the tip. Its hook setting power is 2/3 of the rod. A moderate rod starts it bend about halfway down the rod while a slow action rod tends to bend throughout the rod. Grandt rods are usually fast action, which provides the maximum hook setting strength.

What is a Fishing Rod Blank Made of?

The construction of the blank determines its characteristics. Manufacturers use different quantities and types of resin, modulus count of graphite, and different directions for laying graphite. How these are applied is an important part of a rod’s strength. Grandt Industries uses high strain graphite “laid” in a unidirectional approach from end to end. This gives the blank its strength for each type of rod.

Grandt blanks range from 58 to 78 million modulus graphite count. The higher the modulus count, the more sensitive the rod. Without the appropriate manufacturing process, higher modulus counts of graphite can also make a blank brittle.

Where Can You Purchase a Great Fishing Rod?

Fishing rods sold by Signature Fishing Rods are developed and made with blanks by Grandt Industries, an innovator in the fishing rod industry for over 37 years. Grandt’s staff of professional anglers test each rod for durability, sensitivity, and hook setting power.

Shop our collection to find the best way for you to prepare for your next successful fishing trip. Need more information? Give us a call at 630-234-6214.

How I Became a Better Fisherman

Posted June 28, 2018

Sensitivity

Over the years my fishing knowledge has improved greatly. Yet even as my knowledge improved, I did not dramatically increase my ability to catch fish.

I am like anyone else and use a variety of baits, lures and techniques. If a fish hits a lure, I generally react appropriately. At first, using live bait did not go as well as hoped. Relying on Lindy Rigs or bottom bouncers in swallow or deep water, in holes or up against rocks, I did fine as long as fish hit hard. The problem was the soft or light hits. I could not feel them and only realized I missed something when I reeled in to check my bait.

Back in the 80’s I was introduced to Jim Grandt at a sports show. He tied a line on the tip of an All American Pro fishing rod and asked me to hold the rod. Jim then flicked the line with his finger and asked if I felt the vibration. One look at my face gave him the answer — a resounding “Yes”! It became clear that my “clumsy” hands needed a more sensitive rod. Since that time I have enjoyed much better success fishing. As in most things in life, to be good, the right equipment is everything.

I have been fortunate to improve my equipment with the every increase in sensitivity of fishing rods. Obviously, my favorites are Grandt Rods. Currently my favorite is the 7’0″ Cuda medium spinning rod.

I choose this rod instead of the medium light fishing rods that I normally prefer. The medium power rod is rated for a little heavier line at the top end. Yet it is light, powerful and sensitive. I generally fish a Canadian river system that has a hard bottom. Current is what distinguishes good areas of fish from the peaceful areas that few fish hold. If the gates of the control dams are opened, current can be very heavy. Current is where more and bigger fish concentrate to ambush whatever is being swept through the area. Even here light hits are numerous. I use a 1 1/2 to 2 ounce bottom bouncer and hope it is heavy enough to stay on the bottom. If not, it is time to relocate.

The 7’0″ medium Cuda allows use of a heavier line (usually 8 lb. with a 10 or 12 lb. leader). If current is not as fast as normal, I can still use the same rig in a more typical lake style fishing environment. The Cuda also has the fast action needed to fight bigger fish yet still provides the sensitivity needed.

Everyone is different. You need to determine what you like based on how you fish. Grandt Rods are built to last and give you the sensitivity needed. They come with a lifetime warranty! The 7’0″ Cuda custom rods are on sale in both casting and spinning versions now! See SignatureFishingRods.com and click on the “Featured Rods” on the top.

Tips for Maintaining Your Fishing Rod

Posted April 10, 2018

Whether you’re an occasional fisherman with one fishing rod or an experienced fisherman with 20 of them, you should make sure you maintain each and every rod you use. It will extend the life of it and ensure that it delivers optimum performance when you’re out on the water. Here are some maintenance steps to take to keep your fishing rod in like new condition.

Wash your fishing rod after every use.

After a long day of fishing, you might not necessarily feel like spending time maintaining your rod. However, it’s prudent to do it. All you need to do to wash it is use hot water and a small amount of soap. This will remove any dirt from it and get the salt off it if you were fishing in the ocean. It will only take a few minutes to do, but it will be well worth your time.

Check your fishing rod for signs of damage.

Once your fishing rod is all clean, you will be able to spot signs of damage more easily. You should keep an eye out for scratches on your rod, and replace any portions of the rod that are scratched up beyond repair. A simple way to detect scratches on your rod is to run a cotton ball over it. If scratches are there, the cotton ball will get snagged on it, and you’ll know that you have an issue that you need to deal with accordingly.

Store your fishing rod in a rack.

Far too often, fishermen will take a fishing rod and lean it up against a wall in their basement or in a shed when they’re not using it. This is just about the worst way to store a rod. It can cause it to warp pretty quickly, and when that happens, it won’t be safe for you to use it. You should also take measures to avoid banging your rod against hard surfaces when you’re not using it.

If you need a hand maintaining your rod or if you need to obtain a new rod to replace an old one, Signature Fishing Rods can help. Call us at 630-530-8775 today for all your fishing rod needs.

The History of the Fishing Rod

Posted April 2, 2018

Fishing has become one of the most popular outdoor activities in the U.S. over the course of time. As of right now, there are almost 50 million Americans who go fishing on an annual basis, and that number seems to continue to climb year after year. As a result, the fishing rods that are used have become more advanced than ever as fishermen try to get every competitive advantage they can when they hit the water. But fishing is something that has actually been around for centuries now, and the fishing pole itself has evolved quite a bit since it first came into existence.

The Invention of the Fishing Rod

So, who invented the very first fishing rod? It’s actually impossible to say! Based on stone inscriptions that date as far back as 2000 B.C, there were many people in ancient Egypt and China using fishing rods. Those in ancient Greece and Rome used them as well. It seems those who lived in prehistoric times caught fish by using their bare hands in shallow water. But over time, people realized how inefficient it was to go after fish like that, and they also wanted to d a way to fish in deeper waters. So they started using a hook and line to do it before eventually tying the line to a long rod and using that to help them fish.

Since then, fishing rods have come a long way. While the earliest versions of fishing poles featured the line tied to a single point on the rods, running rings leading from the bottom of the rod to the top eventually replaced the early models. Then, people started making rods out of different materials like bamboo to improve the flexibility of them. But it wasn’t until the 20th century when manufacturing made it possible to employ materials like fiberglass and graphite to build fishing rods. These are some of the same materials used to make fishing rods today.

If you’re in the market for the most sophisticated and responsive fishing rods available right now, Signature Fishing Rods has plenty for you to choose from. Call us at 630-530-8775 to order one of the many rods we have in stock.

Do Left-handed Anglers Have a Built in Advantage?

Posted March 22, 2018

Being left-handed can be tough. About 90 percent of Americans are right-handed, and as a result, most products are manufactured with right-handed people in mind. Scissors, computer mice, and other things that people use on a daily basis are better suited for those who use their right hands than those who use their left hands. And even when things are made for lefties, they can be hard to find in certain instances.

That’s not necessarily the case with left-handed fishing equipment. There are quite a few left-handed baitcasting reels out there, and believe it or not, there are actually many right-handed fishermen who prefer using them. One of them is none other than Patrick Pierce, a professional fisherman who takes part in Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Opens. Pierce prefers using left-handed baitcasting reels even though he is right-handed.

Is it because left-handed people have a decided advantage when they fish with the equipment made specifically for them? Not necessarily. Pierce has talked about how he uses a left-handed baitcasting reel because it allows him to be more efficient. With a left-handed reel, he can cast out with his right hand and then keep the reel there while reeling with his left hand. It frees his right hand up to control his bait, set his hooks, and fight fish when he feels a bite rather than relying on his weaker hand to do it. Therefore, it’s not that lefties have better equipment than righties or anything; it’s that righties can, in Pierce’s opinion at least, utilize left-handed equipment to their advantage better than they can right-handed equipment.

No matter which hand you use when you fish, Signature Fishing Rods can provide you with custom fishing rods that will allow you to bring in more fish. Just take a look at all of the products we have in stock right now. Contact us at 630-530-8775 today to place an order or ask any questions you might have about our rods.

A Guide to Selecting a New Fishing Pole

Posted February 6, 2018

Purchasing a new fishing pole is an important investment. Those who love to fish will often spend a decent amount of money replacing their existing pole with one that will work best for them. Before you decide to pull the trigger on a new fishing pole, you should take the time to consider a few factors. Check out some things you should keep in mind when you buy your next pole.

Length of your new pole

You can find fishing poles in a range of different sizes. They tend to range from about four feet long all the way up to 14 feet long. The length of your pole should depend on what you plan on using it for. If you are going to be casting your line out great distances all the time, a longer pole is best. If you are going to be going after larger fish, a shorter pole might be better. In general, most anglers prefer a pole that is between six and eight feet long.

Material used to make your new pole

Fishing poles are usually made out of either graphite or fiberglass, though some poles feature a combination of the two. Graphite rods are usually the lighter of the two types, but they can also break more easily if you bend them too far. Fiberglass rods, meanwhile, are heavier and almost unbreakable. You will want to choose your material based on what kind of fish you will be going after. Graphite is ideal for smaller fish and lighter bites, while fiberglass is perfect for those who need the durability it offers when chasing larger fish.

Handle on your new pole

The handle that comes on your new fishing pole will usually be constructed out of cork or foam. Choosing the right handle is usually a matter of personal preference, so you will want to test out different ones before settling on the handle that feels the best to you.

Do you need help picking out the right fishing pole? Signature Fishing Rods would love to give you a hand. We have plenty of options and can show you many types of poles. Call us at 630-530-8775 today to test out our selection.

Tips for Becoming a Better Angler

Posted November 20, 2017

Does it feel like you’ve fallen into a rut when it comes to fishing? It can, unfortunately, be very easy to get stuck in place and feel like you’re not making improvements as an angler. However, there are some simple steps you can take to change that. Let’s take a look at a few tips for becoming a better fisherman.

Switch up your routine early and often.

It can be easy to get into the habit of using the same equipment all the time and fishing in the same spots. This might make you feel comfortable, but it can also hold you back as a fisherman and prevent you from improving. When you use different equipment, you will be forced to learn about it and try new techniques, and when you fish in new spots, it will force you out of your comfort zone and make you learn about a new place. These things will ultimately benefit you in the end, even if it doesn’t feel like it at first.

Think about ways you can improve.

Take a look at everything that you’re doing when you’re fishing. Are you reeling your line in too quickly? Are you casting into the wrong spots? Are you growing impatient when the fish aren’t biting? Chances are, you can pick out different things that you’re doing wrong and make improvements. By being honest with yourself about your fishing skills, you can find ways to get better over time.

Buy better equipment.

Whether you’re a new fisherman using equipment meant for beginners or an experienced fisherman using old equipment that doesn’t feature any of the latest technology, the solution to becoming a better fisherman might be as simple as just buying new equipment for yourself. Outside of pushing yourself out of your comfort zone as we mentioned above, the latest fishing equipment will usually make you a better fisherman right away since it has the technology you need to catch more fish.

If you want to see exactly how the newest fishing equipment can help you, Signature Fishing Rods would love to show you some of it. Shop our entire inventory now or call us at 630-530-8775 for more information on the equipment we currently carry.