What Is the Difference Between Bait Casting & Spinning Rods?

The two most common types of rods that fishermen use are baitcasting rods, also known as casting rods, and spinning rods. However, the rods occupy different fishing niches, with baitcasting rods typically reserved for the more experienced anglers. On the other hand, anglers of all skill levels use spinning rods.

  1. Reel Type

    • Anglers who fish with baitcasting rods pair with baitcasting reels, while those who fish with spinning rods pair with spinning reels. The latter hang below the rod handle and have a metal bale that protects the spool. Baitcasting reels sit atop the rod and while the spool is visible, it is far less exposed than is the spool on a spinning reel.

    Trigger

    • Baitcasting rods have a trigger that hangs below the reel seat, while spinning rods do not. Most anglers use baitcasting rods for casting, and the trigger prevents inadvertently dropping the rod while casting.

    Rod Guides

    • Both spinning and baitcasting rods have guides, which are circular objects that run the length of the rod and carry the line from the reel to the tip of the rod. While all rod guides on baitcasting rods are the same size, those on spinning rods get progressively larger between the tip of the rod and the handle of the handle. The largest rod guide is the one nearest the rod handle.

    Line Size

    • Spinning rods can accommodate small line sizes – as small as 1- or 2-pound test fishing line. But they generally do not handle thick, heavy line as well. Baitcasting rods, on the other hand, can handle heavy line. But they generally are too strong for use with light fishing line.