How to choose a match rod, types and characteristics

A match fishing rod is a float tackle designed for fishing over long distances. Match fishing rods are distinguished by their fast action and high demands on the strength of the stick, since casting is carried out with heavy baits.

The masts will show their main advantages at a relatively shallow depth - the bait will lower smoothly, almost silently. But the main disadvantage is that the fishing line often gets tangled.

Selection by length

One of the main selection criteria is length. The type of fishing and the maximum casting range depend on this parameter. The minimum value is 3.9 meters, and the maximum is 4.5 m. However, there are larger representatives that are suitable for a specific type of fishing.

Length less than 3.9 m

Small models that are designed for fishing at short distances or from a boat. Also, some people use this option for small rivers or when hunting from under bushes. This option is effective, but it is not recommended for novice users to buy them.

Traditional performance

The optimal solution for amateurs and beginners will be rods whose length is from 3.9 to 4.5 meters. The first option is designed for fishing in places with shallow depths, up to about two meters. There is a drawback here - fishing in this case becomes harder, since most fishing rods are sold heavy, and it is difficult to find light options.

This rule cannot be ignored, since when fishing at great depths, problems will arise with the casting range. The first thing the user will encounter is low accuracy. The second is the correct selection of floats, otherwise it is impossible to cast over a long distance.

Rods with a length of 4.2 meters are almost universal. Sliding or blind equipment can be installed on them, but this does not affect the convenience in any way. The maximum casting distance of the float is 50 meters, which is suitable for most types of fishing. This performance is often recommended for beginners.

For fishing at great depths and with blind equipment, rods 4.5 meters long are used. This is a balanced option that will help you hunt large fish that are located at a considerable distance from the shore.

Fishing rods 4.8 meters

This design is designed for catching wary fish at long distances. It is important to understand that the terrain for such a rod is selected carefully; it is better if there is a slight current. The recommended weight of the weight is up to 2 grams.

Long options (5-6 meters)

Such models are intended only for deep-water fishing. They have also proven themselves well when fishing on the river. Even a strong wind will not affect the positive result. In addition, this option will be a good alternative to Bolognese fishing rods. Because in some cases the latter may break due to thin walls. Experienced fishermen use 6-meter match fishing rods for casting with a long float release, while the recommended casting length is 20 meters.

Thanks to the elastic line and friction brake, oversized fishing rods are able to pull out large prey without much effort or damage. Therefore, some professionals use them to hunt powerful carp.

Multi match rods

This category includes fishing rods that can change their length. This is a more popular option, as it allows you to adapt to a specific situation, rather than buying several rods at once. For lengthening, special inserts are used. But this solution also has a downside, because the balance and structure of the tackle deteriorates.

It is best to use this option when fishing in unfamiliar bodies of water, as it is difficult to establish the depth there. Therefore, a variable rod will be an effective tool and will allow you to fish from the shore without any problems.

What is a match fishing rod

This is a type of plug fishing rod, from 300 to 500 centimeters long, designed for catching large trophies in deep reservoirs. Match fishing rods can have several sections, usually they are 2 or 3 sections, Sic rings in the amount of 11 to 17 pieces, which are attached to the body on elongated legs, the design of match fishing rods is saddle so that the small weight of the fishing rod has the desired action and was durable.

More recently, manufacturers began to produce telescopic match rods, but they have an unreliable reel mount.

Fishing rods are presented in the following directions: classic fishing rods; carp fishing rods; casting range is more than forty meters.

1. The classic type assumes a length from 3.70 to 4.25 meters, a rod weight from 9 to 23 grams, a slow or medium-fast action. Fishing on the shore, with a range of up to 35 meters.

2. Carp match rods are from 3.9 to 4.2 meters in length, a carp match rod is more powerful and, accordingly, has more weight. The rod's action is slow or fast, and having a powerful blank, a carp rod can catch carp with any parameters.

3. The match rod for long casts over 30 meters is the most powerful of the three types of match rods. The length of the rods is from 4.40 to 5 meters, the action is medium fast or fast.

All match rods are equipped with a fast inertia-free reel; the reel has a small spool and the winding on it should be maximum, this is an important condition for long casting.

The line on match fishing rods must be very thin, this is due to the setting of the friction brake. The color of the fishing line for match fishing rods is dark in color and should sink well.

Floats must be high-antenna and cast over long distances.

The importance of structure and rigidity

The type of fishing depends on these parameters. There are 4 main categories in total:

Soft and fast. This option is designed for good hooking. The user will be able to catch fish without any problems, without fear that it will leave the hook. These rods are best used for catching small or medium game. For example, roach or small carp.
Soft and slow. This solution allows you to hunt roach, which is located at a long distance. When using a standard fishing rod, there will be many chances for it to break and the person will miss the prey. Using a soft and slow match, such chances are reduced to zero.
Tough and fast. When using heavy floats over a long distance, it is necessary to select the correct action and rigidity. This option is the optimal solution for such situations. The main advantage of the execution is high-quality cutting at a long distance. But there is a minus here - only experienced users can do this.
Hard and slow. No fishing for big fish is complete without such products. This option is one of the best, as it allows you to catch large carp and carp. The advantage of the design is that it does not bend in a ring, but can also act as a good shock absorber during strong jerks of the fish.

Weight and build

The best match rod is selected individually. When buying a fisherman, he should hold it in his hands and check whether the fishing rod is comfortable for him. The weight of the gear must be taken into account when choosing a reel and equipment. It is worth considering that with a length of 4.2 m, a match fishing rod weighs about 280 g. The more powerful the blank, the heavier it is.

The structure of the rod is also an important indicator. It shows how the blank bends under load. There are several groups here. The first category includes fast and stiff rods. This is a special tackle that is often chosen by professionals. They have the highest range. The hook is very clear. The float of fast rigid tackle is heavy. Such rods require some experience when casting. Otherwise, it will not be possible to avoid breakdowns and breaks.

Fast and soft blanks are considered more universal tackle. They need a heavy float. Otherwise, a high-quality cast will not be possible. These forms are used for fishing in the current. At the same time, unlike the previous group, you can control the process of fishing for fish.

Slow hard matches are designed for light to medium floats. The blank, bending, dampens the jerks of the fish. However, it is difficult to control this process when catching small prey. More suitable for catching large fish.

Slow, soft rods allow you to control the process of fishing for fish. This form dampens all jerks. When hooking, make a wide sweep. The equipment can be light. Suitable for short or medium casting.

What is important to know about the test?

The main thing that a novice fisherman should remember is that the test is selected based on the conditions of the reservoir. In addition, we must not forget about the floats, which must also correspond to the selected area. To determine the test, you should sum the mass located on the fishing line with the weight of the float, which is loaded.

When fishing at great depths and long distances, it is better to use floats with a carrying capacity of 16 + 6 g; for the shore this value is several times lower and equals 5 + 0.5 g. It follows from this that the optimal test, which is suitable for almost every situations - 5-25 g. This design is intended not only for heavy, but for light floats.

Fishing rig options

Today there are two different types of equipment for long-range fishing - equipment with a blind mount and a sliding one. Which one to choose depends on the depth of the reservoir where the fishing will take place. In blind mounting, you need to take into account the length of the rod. In a deeper location, it is best to use a sliding installation.

Rigs with a blind float mount have proven themselves well when catching bream, bream and carp. Its main feature is increased sensitivity and slow immersion of the bait into the water after being cast.

There are 3 types of equipment:

Lightweight option (shipping weight from 0.5 to 0.7 g). Used when the reservoir is shallow, in calm winds and calm weather;
Medium/basic option (weight from 1 to 1.5 g). Used at an average depth of about 3.5 meters;
Heavy (weight from 2 to 2.5 g). Used when necessary to “get” the bottom. The depth ranges from 2 to 4 meters.

Equipment with sliding float. Its peculiarity is that it can move freely between the stoppers. During the process, when the nozzle is cast, the float itself moves slightly to the side towards the lower stop, while the upper one, meanwhile, limits the descent of the equipment itself.

There are these types of sliding floats:

With central network hole. They differ from the others in their large load capacity. They are convenient for mounting and casting bait.
With two ears on the body. The floats are highly sensitive and are recommended for use in large currents.
With one eye for fastening. Used in reservoirs with standing water and for long casts.

Universal equipment is the most common and popular. Its main advantage is that it does not slip and thanks to this it can be easily mounted in a blind-mounted equipment. To do this, you only need to slightly move the stoppers with rubber towards the stop unit.

This type of equipment is mainly used at a depth of about 6-8 m.

But if the equipment. It uses a heavy, weighted float. Sinkers are selected whose total mass will not exceed 50% of the mass of the float itself.

Before use, to straighten the equipment, it is good to slow down the spool by hand. This will help avoid overlapping lines.

Ring selection

Most match fishing rods are equipped with high-quality rings, which are made of durable material. But when choosing, there are some nuances, for example, if a person is going to use sliding equipment, you need to pay attention to the diameter of the upper element. The locking assembly must pass freely and not catch, so it is best to select rings of medium diameter.

The second main point is the distance between the bottom ring and the reel holder. Many fishing rods that are designed to operate with an inertia reel have the bottom ring located close to the holder. This is acceptable, since when using such a fishing rod no one expects long casts. But you can’t use a spinning reel, since the casting range deteriorates, while the fishing line quickly wears out, and overlaps happen more often.

Test

When choosing a match rod, you also need to pay attention to its test. This is the weight range of equipment with bait for which the form is designed. If you use too light baits, casting will be extremely difficult. If the weight is too heavy, there is a risk of breaking the form.

Each existing category has its own test. So, for a group of light classic matches, this figure is 2-10 g. This must be taken into account when choosing baits. A classic universal rod can have a test of 5-20, as well as 5-25 g. If you want to fish in currents or deep water, you need to purchase blanks with a larger test.

Thus, reinforced (or carp) gear has a test weight in the range from 5 to 25 g or from 10 to 30 g. The category of powerful or extended fishing rods includes forms with a test weight of 10-30 g or 10-40 g. Paying attention to this indicator in store, you can choose the right test. If the water in the reservoir is calm, you will need gear with minimal testing. In this case, the fish should be medium-sized. When the current increases or when catching larger specimens of aquatic inhabitants, it is better to purchase matches with a larger dough.

Reel seat

Like fishing rods, reels are sold in hundreds, if not thousands, and each differs in design and purpose. Some have standard sizes, while others are larger. Therefore, it is necessary to check the design for strength, especially if cheap versions are purchased. It is not necessary to check products of the middle and high price categories, since everything is made from the best materials. Moreover, the sizes are universal and suitable for all reels.

It is best if the holder is made of high quality plastic. Because when using metal options, they begin to peel off the paint, which negatively affects the appearance.

Pen

Professionals pay a lot of attention to the selection of handles, since the convenience of fishing depends on it. There is no specific length that will suit everyone. The fisherman independently determines what is best for him. To check this, you need to perform a simulated cast in the store.

There are two materials that are used to make a fishing rod - neoprene or balsa wood. A suitable design is the last option, as it is less susceptible to various contaminations and is much more pleasant to the touch.

Rating of the best middle class fishing rods

SHIMANO VENGEANCE AX TELE MATCH 390 F

An excellent middle-class product that has a good test of 5-20 grams and optimal weight. But it also has a drawback - the maximum length is 3.9 meters, which is not suitable for every fishing.

The transport value is 1.12 m, which is a plus, since the device is compact and does not take up space in luggage. The design is telescopic, the number of sections is 7. The form is made of high-quality composite that can withstand various loads. There are 11 rings, made of durable material, and a case is included. Warranty duration – 6 months.

Sold at a price: from 8,200 rubles.

SHIMANO VENGEANCE AX TELE MATCH 390 F

Advantages:

Efficiency;
Strength;
Light weight;
Ergonomic handle;
Good test;
Telescopic design;
Compactness.

Flaws:

Length – 3.9 meters.

Salmo ELITE MATCH

An excellent option that is suitable for beginners and amateurs. Here the test is already 5-25 g, which is the optimal solution for fishing from close and medium distances. The length of the fishing rod reaches 4.2 meters, which makes it universal, while the transport value is 1.47 m.

IKADO TROUT CAMPIONE Match 3003

This is a budget option that is intended only for fishing from a boat. The maximum rod length is 3 meters. Therefore, it is not suitable for beginners, since they will not be able to appreciate all the advantages of this option. Rod weight – 212 grams. The plug design has three sections. The form is made of durable material. The handle is made of cork wood and is pleasant to hold in your hand.

Average price: from 3,650 rubles.

IKADO TROUT CAMPIONE Match 3003

Advantages:

Price;
Test 10-30 g;
Light weight;
Convenience;
Compactness.

Flaws:

The length is not suitable for everyone.

Choosing the right rod

Rods of the fishing rod are divided into 3 groups based on the material they are made of:

Made from fiberglass. The most popular type of material. It has a relatively low price and does not require careful maintenance and operation. They are quite flexible and can withstand heavy loads. Their disadvantage is their heavy weight and low sensitivity.
Made from carbon. The main advantages of products made from this material are durability and very good sensitivity. The downside to them is their fragility; they require careful use and storage.
Made from composite. Products made from this material combine good quality and low cost. Often, carbon fiber and fiberglass are added to the composite, which makes it durable, gives a good casting range, and less fragility.

The element that basically determines the price of a stick is the action. It happens:

Slow.
Average.
Fast.

The structure directly affects the casting technique. Fast action can be used when you can cast the bait with a sharp, short movement. It is best used in places where you cannot swing well. And a slow action requires a wider swing, but it allows you to fish an increasingly larger area.

The test directly influences the choice of bait with which you will catch fish. It comes in: ultra-light, light, medium-light, medium, medium-heavy, heavy. Light class rods can be used for fishing with small baits, and heavy ones for large ones.

The power of the rod depends on the casting indicator (the range of baits that are cast). If the range of 2-5 g is indicated on the spinning rod, the power of the stick will be small. And at 100 - 150 gr. you can safely go after larger fish.

Weight plays a key role in spinning. Lightweight poles are very good to use, but given their high cost and fragility, novice fishermen should not opt for them. Heavy ones, on the contrary, are relatively inexpensive, but require a lot of force to use, which in reality turns out to be completely impractical and creates problems. Therefore, more than ever, you need to stick to the golden mean, choose a stick that is average in weight.

Match rod sticks can be divided into two types:

Whole.
Trumpets.

Solid rods are made primarily of fiberglass. They are quite durable, but have considerable weight. Mainly used in passive fishing, where there is no need to hold a rod in your hands. For example: in sea trolling.

The most popular are rods with a tube design. Unlike solid ones, they are more durable, and their length can reach up to 12 or 14 meters. The rod length of the rod varies from 2.1 m to 3.3. If you plan to fish from a boat, then a long stick is not really needed. An excellent solution would be 2.10 m. Depending on the conditions and fishing location, the required length is determined individually. The material used to make the rod is carbon, fiberglass, or composite.

Rod guides

The main difference between the guide ring and a match rod is the increased height of the “foot”, thanks to which the line does not stick to the blank itself. Inside, they are made entirely of ceramic or ceramic with the addition of zirconium. This will allow the fishing line to last much longer, due to the fact that the friction force is reduced.

The number of guide rings, including the tulip, is equal to the length of the rod itself or may be 1 or 2 more than this indicator, in very rare cases it reaches 3.

For example: A rod that would be 12lb long would have 12 -14 guides available.

Reel seat

The main requirements for a reel seat are reliability in fixing the reel and ease of use. The classic reel, which is used on a mast fishing rod, has a small spool and can hold about 100 meters of fishing line.

The main requirement for a reel is a brake that is easily adjustable, due to the fact that match fishing from the very beginning involves using only high-quality, thin and expensive fishing lines.

Two types of coils can be used:

Inertial.
Inertialess;

For beginning spinners, it is best to use a spinning rod. They are the easiest to use and make it easy to cast bait.

Some reel models may have non-standard sizes. Because of this, it is recommended that after installing it in the reel seat, check how firmly they are fixed. Preference should also be given to a product made of plastic.

Lever

How comfortable and convenient fishing will be also depends on the length of the handle of the match rod itself. Each fisherman selects the handle individually for himself, so when choosing, it is better to simulate casting. The most common option is a wooden handle.

Handles are also made of cork or microporous rubber (Duplon). Of course, natural cork would be a more preferable option due to its durability and ease of use.

Rating of the best light class models

DAIWA PROTEUS MATCH

A popular model that has optimal length and comfort. The maximum line load is 1.35-3.6 kg, while the transport length is 1.37 m. The weight of the rod is 250 g. The design is plug-in, there are three sections. The blank material is carbon. The rings are made of high-quality aluminum that can withstand high loads. The handle is made of rubber and cork.

The average price is 9,280 rubles.

DAIWA PROTEUS MATCH

Advantages:

Durability;
Ergonomics;
Withstands high loads;
Compactness.

Flaws:

Not found.

GRFISH Technican Match VGA420FA

Durable design with a length of 4.2 meters and a fast action that is suitable for various types of fishing. Made from high-quality material that can withstand high loads and does not deform over time. The transport length is 1.45 meters, which allows you to conveniently store and move the structure. The handle has good ergonomics, so the user will not feel a high load.

Sold at price: 5,290 rubles.

GRFISH Technican Match VGA420FA

Advantages:

Value for money;
Efficiency;
Strength characteristics;
Reliability;
Optimal test and length.

Flaws:

Not detected.

Stinger Phantom Telematch SRD PTT40

A budget design with a telescopic design, which is designed for close-range fishing. The test reading is 4-16 g, which is perfect for catching small fish. The form is made from high-quality materials that can function for a long time and not deform. The rings are made of SiC, which is also an advantage.

The average cost is 3,500 rubles.

Stinger Phantom Telematch SRD PTT40

Advantages:

Efficiency;
Good price;
High-quality execution;
Strength indicators;
Length.

Flaws:

Not found.

Reviews from fishermen

According to reviews, match rods can be very different. The choice depends not only on the surrounding conditions of the reservoir and the type of fishing, but also on the preferences of the fisherman. Managing this or that form should be comfortable.

It is also worth considering that a beginner does not need an expensive form. It is enough to purchase a cheap but high-quality model. It will allow you to understand all the intricacies of fishing. Many people make mistakes in the process of gaining match fishing skills. This leads to various breakdowns of the gear. Only when the fisherman’s experience in the presented fishing technique is significant, can you choose a more expensive model. In this case, the fisherman will know exactly what qualities his fishing rod should have.

Professionals often have 5-6 match rods in their arsenal. However, for an amateur this is absolutely not necessary. Experienced fishermen note that one or two universal match gear is quite enough. They have identified several similar forms.

According to fishermen, one of the universal rods of this type is a fast, soft tackle with a length of 4.2 m. Its test should be 5-20 g. This rod is suitable for long and short casts, as well as fishing from a boat.

Experienced fishermen also advise purchasing another match rod. It should be medium-fast and soft. The length is 5.4 m. The test weight is 10-30 g. This rod is suitable for long-distance casting and fishing for large fish.

Rating of the best heavy class models

VOLZHANKA Option 4.0/4.5 up to 40 g

An excellent Russian version with a maximum test of up to 40 g, which is a high result. The length of the fishing rod is 4.5 meters, so it is suitable for long casts. The design is plug-in and consists of only three sections. Weight – 270 g. The product folds easily, which allows you to move and store it without any problems. The rings are made of durable material.

The average price is 9,300 rubles.

VOLZHANKA Option 4.0/4.5 up to 40 g

Advantages:

Test – 40 g;
Good build quality;
Strength;
Ergonomics;
Compactness.

Flaws:

Not found.

KOSADAKA Wega Tele Match 14 M

A high-quality device with a telescopic design that will allow you to fish almost anywhere. The size of the device is 4.2 meters, while the transport value is 1.17 m. The weight of the structure is 190 g. The product folds and unfolds conveniently without taking up space. Sold in a special case. The diameter of the lower part is 18 mm.

Sold at a price of 3,700 rubles.

KOSADAKA Wega Tele Match 14 M

Advantages:

Durability;
Strength;
Efficiency;
High-quality assembly;
Ergonomics;
Nice rings.

Flaws:

Not found.

Black Hole Pro Match 420/10-40

An excellent option for beginners and professionals. The fishing rod is made of high-quality plastic, which practically does not change shape over time. The reel holder is good and durable and doesn't take much time to attach. The size of the product is 4.2 meters. The handle is made of cork.

The average price is 9,340 rubles.

Black Hole Pro Match 420/10-40

Advantages:

Good test;
Optimal dimensions;
Weight;
Does not deform;
Ergonomics.

Flaws:

Not found.

Device

Main components.

Match rod

They are classified according to several parameters.

By class

They differ in the size of the test, indicating the weight of the equipment used for fishing:

up to 15 grams – light;
up to 25 grams – medium;
more than 25 grams – heavy and very heavy.

By formation

They differ in the bending of the rod due to the load:

ultra-fast – tip bend

fast – bending of the upper knee

slow – uniform bend along the entire length

combined – bending of the upper part

By lenght

up to 3.9 meters - light class with a fast action for short distances, best suited for fishing from a boat;
up to 4.5 meters - middle class with a combined and fast formation for an average distance of up to 50 meters;
more than 4.8 meters - the heavy class is the longest and most durable for distances greater than 50-70 meters or when fishing in difficult conditions.

By material

carbon fiber – combine high strength with lightness, but require careful handling during transportation due to fragility;
composite - practically no different from carbon fiber, but a little heavier and cheaper;
fiberglass - budget options, heavier carbon fiber.

By connection type

plug-in – consist of up to five sections assembled with special connections, with an increased margin of safety;

telescopic - consist of retractable sections that fit into each other;

Coil

It is necessary to use a spinning reel with the following parameters:

The presence of at least two spools for different sections of fishing lines. To catch carp, there must be a baitrunner system that prevents the form from being dragged under water and removes the line from the spool during sudden jerks.
Small-profile spool up to 3000 in size with a capacity of at least 150 meters of fishing line.
Gear ratio from 5.1 to 7.2:1 for fast reeling of equipment.
At least five bearings, of which one is in the line laying mechanism.
Convenient location of the friction brake.
Durable case weighing no more than 300 grams.
Perfect winding without dips.

fishing line

As a rule, special series are used that are characterized by high strength, dark colors and negative buoyancy.

The thickness is selected depending on the throwing distance:

cross section 0.12 – 0.16 mm – for short distances from the shore (up to 30 m);
cross-section 0.18 – 0.22 mm – for long distances (more than 50 m) or for large cyprinids:
the cross-section is 0.02 - 0.04 mm smaller than the main one - for the leash.

On a reel, a sinking fishing line has the words Match and sinking in its name, while a fishing line on a carp has the word Carp.

Sinkers

Typically, heavy lead pellets with slots for fishing line, weighing from 0.4 to 2.0 grams, are used for the main loading. Small sinkers of 0.1 - 0.2 grams are suitable for underlaying.

Fastening is carried out using a special device, which also makes it easy to remove excess weights without damaging the fishing line. You can also use pliers, but a pinched sinker can injure the fishing line.

Hooks

Dimensions depend on the type of nozzle:

Nos. 8–10 – for a worm or large baits;
Nos. 12–14 – for small worms, maggots, dense dough;
Nos. 14–16 – for bloodworms or other small larvae.

Floats

It is envisaged to use special floats having the following parameters:

large sizes with a length of at least 20 - 30 cm;
long and thick antenna;
bright tips inserted into the antenna and selected empirically for maximum visibility at long distances in different conditions;
its own load of washers.

Correct installation of equipment and signaling device will ensure good display of bites from a distance of up to 60 meters, regardless of the fishing rod used.

Rating of rods of especially heavy class

Volzhanka Feeder Match IM7 3.3 m

A high-quality series of fishing rods, which are made of durable material with high rigidity. The apices are sensitive, connected to the middle section. The product can cope with small and large fish. Transport value – 1.15 meters, test – 90/25 g.

Sold at price: 3,230 rubles.

Volzhanka Feeder Match IM7 3.3 m

Advantages:

Good build;
Strength;
High power;
Weight – 252 g;
16 rings.

Flaws:

Not found.

Browning Hot Rod Combi Feeder

A budget solution that is suitable for beginners. The size is 3.3 meters, allows you to hunt at short distances, while the cast is accurate. The product can cope with both light and large fish. Number of knees – 2+1. The maximum test is 50 g, which is a good solution and allows you to use large bait.

The average price is 7,350 rubles.

Browning Hot Rod Combi Feeder

Advantages:

Strength;
Good build;
Optimal length;
Doesn't take up much space.

Flaws:

Not found.

COLMIC Polar Match 4.2 m

A good telescopic model that will help you catch fish at medium and long distances. Number of sections – 4 pcs. The diameter of the bottom is 17.8 mm. The product is made of carbon with the addition of carbon fiber. This increases the strength characteristics. The hooking with such a fishing rod is good, and the chance that the fish will jump off the hook is minimal. Test – 10-80 g.

Sold at a price of 7,400 rubles.

COLMIC Polar Match 4.2 m

Advantages:

Convenience;
Works with large fish;
You can cast over long distances;
Efficiency.

Flaws:

Not detected.