Know the benefits that a telescopic rod brings to your fishing game.
I can easily recall the feeling of immense disappointment upon landing and hearing that my rod tubes had been displaced after not making the flight. A pit my stomach and light sweat on my brow joined my upset thoughts. It was to be a short holiday in a fishing oasis with short sessions of DIY fishing that I had planned for as early as that evening. Dreams of baby tarpon, at least for that day, were dashed and replaced with some fruity concoctions that weren’t quite as invigorating as the silver king.
That event is in the rearview mirror, but the chaos of air travel is not. Flying seems as complex and uncertain as ever, so I make certain to come prepared with two or three telescoping rods in my carry-on bag every time – no exceptions. Most telescopic rods measure no more than 17 inches when compressed and weigh just ounces. They are the perfect backup or primary plan for those traveling to destinations where fishing on one’s own is possible. One can take multiple rods of different specifications because they don’t take up space and add to poundage. Most weigh less than a pound or so. Let’s be honest though, a traveling angler isn’t going to jig and pop big tuna or crank up giant grouper with one on of these rods. What telescopic rods do provide, however, is the ability to put fishermen on the playing field for a variety of other species that, when played properly with the right drag setting, can be landed successfully. And many times, that’s perfectly sufficient. I’ve caught snook, tarpon, redfish, snapper, jacks, small grouper and sharks on my telescoping rods while fishing the salt. My freshwater versions have taken peacock bass, largemouth bass, trout, snakeheads and catfish.
Telescoping rods aren’t just beneficial during air travel. For those that drive compact cars, a discreet set-up such as this is perfect for impromptu fishing excursions. Ever drive over a juicy stream that screams trout? Or maybe you’ve crossed a bridge that shouts stripers. Anglers that carry telescoping rods and accompanying reels can fish five casts, five minutes or five hours because they have that option and the gear doesn’t take any space when stowed in the vehicle’s storage areas. Anglers that relish in exploration and quick stops on the road never take a set-up out of their mode of transportation. The “no space” excuse is eliminated with this tackle item.
My son loves to mountain bike and when I get the chance, we head to the elevation for some downhill blood, sweat and tears (mostly my blood and sweat). I carry a pack with hydration in mind, but I always stow a freshwater telescoping rod and lures just in case we encounter a creek or lake that offers some fishing. It provides the young buck and me with a break from pedaling, but additionally allows us to get some productive casts in. I’ve caught many a brook trout, bluegill and bass this way. Furthermore, we enjoy hiking together where the same preparation and readiness on the road allow for fun detours on the trout streams. Carrying traditional rods is annoying on long hikes and even two-piece rods are difficult to lug without causing interference. Therefore, telescopic rods can be forgotten in the backpack until needed. Even a small pack allows for the storage of two rods, partner reels and a small assortment of lures.
Telescopic rods have been around for decades, but more and more manufacturers are including them in their in their line. For lightweight freshwater purposes, I carry an Eagle Claw Pack It 5-foot 6-inch rod. Longtime Fisherman contributor and friend Tom Pagliaroli generously gave me one to travel with years ago. Upon seeing its value, I quickly purchased a second for around $20. Zebco, Kastking, Shimano, Daiwa and other companies also make nice freshwater telescopic rods with reasonable price points that range from $20 to $90. When fishing saltwater, I have several made by Marathon and Jawbone.
Telescopic rods are designed for each segment to collapse into itself until there there’s very little left. They are typically made of carbon fiber or carbon fiberglass. The eyes and tip are sometimes slightly bulkier than your most prized rods, but that ruggedness helps when the rod is compacted within itself. Where sensitivity might slightly be sacrificed, durability and the ability to pack in tight spaces is gained. Telescopic rods generally average 6 to 7 feet with some longer and shorter options existing as outliers. As someone who is always on the go in life, telescopic rods offer me opportunistic fishing outings at different times and venues. Perhaps they can offer some extra fishing for you as well.
