How much over?

[Bob Ellis]

Do you throw lures over your rods range? TT reviews often have a comment on a rods ability to do this, does this mean there is a margin of error built in to the ratings? Are some ratings inaccurate?

[darrin]

To throw weights over your rods range, you need to do a lob cast. Do not try to "snap" your wrists when casting or your tip might break. A smooth simple motion is all that is required. Hope this helps

[thelatrobe33]

I'd say some ratings are "conservative" as opposed to "inaccurate." The opposite is true as well in some cases. I have had rods rated to 1 oz. that I was scared to throw 3/4 oz. baits with.

[vArm]

I find myself personally narrowing the weight range then whats stated on the rod.
I don't find it worth the effort to try and stretch or push the rods ability, sometimes it can make you feel like you are fishing backwards.
I just did my best to try to save up and get a good collection of rods covering all the weights I plan on fishing.

[Mattman]

I agree with all of the above.


Ratings are a guideline, not an absolute. Think of the ratings as more of a, "this rod is designed with lures of this weight range in mind", kind of a thing.

As you surpass your high end lure rating, you really need to avoid snap casting.

Vertical jigging straight below the boat and not actually casting allows you to go well over your lure rating. No stress on the rod.

[tracker01]

Just be safe, believe the rod ratings.

[civicrr]

I find myself personally narrowing the weight range then whats stated on the rod.

Me too. Each rod seems to have a sweet spot. I usually do it on more on the high end than the lower. In other words, if the rating is 1/4 - 1oz, I'll us it for 1/4 - 3/4oz. As stated above, depends on the casting technique.

[fishindrummer217]

To me it also depends on the lure. With a rod rated 1/4-1oz I would throw up to a 3/4oz spinner or crank but I wouldn't throw over a 1/2oz jig.