How to choose a micro fishing rod
Micro fishing is fishing for tiny fish that can fit in the palm of your hand. There's no hard definition to what makes a "micro fish." In some parts of the world, micro anglers often try to catch fish smaller than a coin. Others are multi-species anglers who want to catch as many different fish as possible.
The most important tackle for catching truly micro fish is the micro fishing hook. These tiny hooks have micro sharpened points that can penetrate the mouths of small fish.
You can attach micro fishing hooks to anything from a tree branch to a "regular" spinning rod. A micro fishing rod is certainly not required to catch micro fish.
Though if you are serious about micro fishing you will probably want to get a dedicated micro fishing rod. They are crafted for catching tiny fish on hook and line.
Microfishing rods
We carry a wide variety of rod designed specifically for micro fishing. They range in size, flexibility, action, strength, and price.
Here's a list of some of the popular micro fishing rods we sell:
- Bamboo Tanago (31.5" and 53" models)
- White Royal (4'11" and 5'10" models)
- Gold Carbon (5'10")
- Diawa Hinata (3', 4'1" and 5'1" models)
- Fiberglass Bamboo (5'10")
- Golden Reed (4'11" and 5'3" models)
- Stream Hand (5'10" and 6'10" models)
- Tiemco 234 (adjustable 20" to and 3'1")
- Tiemco 456 (adjustable 4'9" to 6'11")
- Supercial (4'11")
- High Material (5'10")
You may wonder which rod is right for you. Especially since you might not get the chance to see these rods in person before you purchase. Our goal is to help you select the perfect pole for your fishing.
Micro rod length
The first thing to look at is the length of the rod. Micro fishing rods are telescopic. When you're not using these rods, you can collapse them for easy carrying. So each rod has an extended length and a collapsed length.
You want to pick a micro rod that is suitable to the places you'll be fishing. Micro fishing rods don't have reels. You can "cast" by lobbing or whipping your baited hook out into the water. Or you can simply dip your hook straight down from your rod tip.
You also want a rod that you can carry. If you hike into your fishing spots, or if you like to put your rod in a backpack or pocket when not in use, look for a shorter rod. If you have a lot of space, a longer rod can allow you to cover more water and get away with lighter lines.
For the best of both worlds, look into adjustable rods like the Tiemco 789. With a quick turn you can adjust the length of this rod from 7'2" all the way up to 8'10". When collapsed, the rod is just over a foot long.
Rod material and action
Micro fishing rods are made of different materials. Some are made of fiberglass while others are constructed of carbon fiber.
Fiberglass is typically less expensive and has more "give." Fiberglass rods don't usually feel as good in the hand however. They may also be a little easier to break. Though without proper care, any fishing pole is subject to damage.
Carbon rods have a more premium feel. They also telegraph vibrations better than fiberglass. If you want a sensitive but more durable rod, look into carbon models.
Micro fishing rods can also have different actions. Some are heavy and stiffer than others. The smallest rods are almost like holding a flexible chop stick!
If you are targeting truly tiny fish the size of guppies or flag fish, you will get more of a "sporting" feel by using a diminutive rod like the Bamboo Tanago. These rods are made for catching bitterling fish that don't grow more than 2 inches in length.
If you typically fish for small game fish like bluegills and trout up to 7 or 8 inches in length, a stiffer rod like the Stream Hand will be better able to handle your catch. These poles are made to fish like crucian carp which are usually around 6 inches long.
For an overall rod that covers most micro fishing situations, try the White Royal or 46T. These poles are generalist models that can handle tiny fish up to some smaller game fish.