An angler should always use fishing equipment that keeps a satisfactory quality. It's foolish to lose the opportunity to experience great cod fishing because of poor or improper equipment. Equally foolish it is to spend money on equipment that is unsuitable for cod fishing. In the articles about rods and lures you will find information about choosing gear for cod fishing. Now we look more closely at what one should consider before choosing reel and line intended for cod fishing.
Cod Fishing Reels
The braking/crank system is a very important part of any fishing reel. Along with the line and the rod it should make it possible to get any catch safely ashore. Cod fishing offers opportunities for some really big fishes and by using a well-functioning reel you should be able to fight even the biggest cod. A reel intended for cod fishing should have a system that provides smooth resistance even during heavy loads. Also, it should be easy to adjust the resistance during the actual fishing.
Another important factor is the behavior of the reel when reeling the line. Reels that make reeling hard or reels that have irregular movements and poor rhythm should never be used. When reeling in your line it should feel smooth, so that you always stay in good contact with the bait or lure. Please note that fishing reels which feel excellent in the store may behave differently when they are exposed to pressure.
Cod Fishing from a boat
During cod fishing from boats a well-functioning brake system is by far the most important quality of a reel. Especially when you are chasing the big fishes, this is extremely important. Such circumstances also mean that it is important to have a reel that is easy to handle. Cod fishing in deep water will be an exhausting experience with a fishing reel that makes it hard to reel in your line.
Also remember to choose a reel that can accommodate enough fishing line and that allow you to use the line you prefer. Usually this is the part of the cod fishing equipment that is most expensive, but you need not spend large amounts in order to experience successful cod fishing. A reasonable prized reel from a recognized manufacturer will give you a piece of equipment that will last for many, many years.
Shore fishing for cod
A fishing reel with a well-functioning brake system is also important during cod fishing from the shore. This is especially true during cod fishing with lures, meaning that relatively light rods and relatively thin lines are being used. Of course, a fishing reel intended for this form of cod fishing must also be able hold enough line, but this is rarely a problem.
The possibilities for long distance casting are often extremely important during cod fishing from shore. This means that a reel should drop your line out easily, without resistance or obstruction. Fishing reels in which the line lies smooth and nicely on the spool, is therefore a good choice for cod fishing from shore. Prices vary widely, but you can get reels of good quality at relatively reasonable prices.
Cod fishing line
The selection of fishing equipment is to a large extent about personal preference, but some premises should be considered. First and foremost, all your fishing gear should be suited according to local conditions, as well as the size of fish you are looking for. Basically, regular monofilament fishing line will prove more than good enough for cod fishing from shore. During boat fishing in deeper water, however, multi-filament lines will often be a great advantage.
Choices of line will be a balance between the desire for long distance casting, high breaking strength, and invisibility for the fish. Many inexperienced anglers choose fishing line with too large diameter. Especially for fishing in clear water, a thin line may be necessary. You risk losing some fish, but it's better than the alternative. The alternative is often cod fishing with few or none catches.
Multi-filament line
In relation to the diameter, multi-filament fishing lines have an incredibly high breaking strength. In addition, this is a fishing line that does not stretch during fishing. Therefore you will experience better contact with your lure or bait. The benefits of multi-filament fishing lines are obvious. Higher breaking strength increases the ability to fight big cod, but first and foremost, it provides the opportunity to use thinner lines during cod fishing.
Among other things, this means that you can put more line on a reel, if desired. When cod fishing in deep water, trolling or during strong currents, a thinner line will be a great advantage. A smaller surface means less resistance and thus better contact with your tackle. Opportunities for effective cod fishing in deep water, for example, will be much better if one uses multi-filament fishing line. Great casting qualities and increased sensitivity are other benefits with the multi-filament, but there are also disadvantages. A line that does not stretch means that fish can more easily break free from the hook. The durability of multi-filament line will often prove to be unsatisfying. Also note that this is costly lines.
Monofilament line
Monofilament is the traditional fishing line that most people still use. In most situations and during the most circumstances, this will still be the best choice for cod fishing. The advantages of monofilament lines are many. First and foremost, there is an enormous range available, something that to some extent makes it possible to customize the qualities to local conditions. Choices of color and stiffness are some examples.
The cost is also a great advantage with this type of line. Although there are differences in various types of monofilament lines, prices are generally low. Another important advantage is that such lines will usually be less visible for fish, something that can be especially important during cod fishing in clear water. Monofilament lines have no major drawbacks. All in all, this is lines that can safely be named all-round fishing equipment.
Cod fishing equipment
You should select fishing equipment that is suitable for the type cod fishing you are attending. Deep sea cod fishing means it is necessary to use specialized reels, while you will have more freedom to choose reels intended for shore fishing. During cod fishing from the shore, your choice of fishing line will be very important. This must be adapted to local conditions and several spools with different diameter lines are recommended. This will enable you to cope with different conditions during cod fishing.
More information about cod fishing
Cod fishing rod - Cod fishing lures
Wreck fishing - Cod fishing spots
