Fast vs Extra Fast Fishing Rods: What are the Differences

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Rod action is a subject of discussion among  anglers and it confuses most anglers. Most anglers end up picking the wrong action rods for their different techniques. Basically, rod action refers to where the rod bends under pressure. The different rod actions include slow, moderate, moderate fast, fast and extra-fast action. Every action rod bends differently.

Fast and extra-fast action rods bend only at the top. Therefore, the tip is flexible, and every other part of the rod is stiff. Usually, these rods are more sensitive compared to other action rods. Although the two actions seem similar, they vary slightly. Keep reading and get the difference between the two rods.

More About Fast Action Rods

As we have seen earlier, action is where the rod bends under pressure. Fast action rods bend in the upper 1/3 of the rod and mostly at the tip. These rods are remarkably sensitive and let you feel every nibble and movement. You will rarely miss a movement making these rods the perfect companion for finesse and light applications.

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Anglers targeting small and fast-moving species should consider these rods. You will excel in bass fishing also since the fast action rods are flexible. The flexibility is quite helpful when dealing with bigger species due to the jumps. These rods are ideal for Texas rigs, Carolina rig, spinnerbaits, jerk baits, topwater baits and buzz baits.

Key Features

  • Bend at the top 1/3 part of the rod and the tip
  • Remarkable sensitivity
  • Ideal for bass fishing
  • Thrives well in finesse applications

More about Extra Fast Action Rods

Extra fast action rods are the go-to rods when looking for sensitivity. These rods bend at the tip, and the other backbone is left stiff. With the extra fast action rod, you will feel even the tiniest nibble so; you will never miss a catch.

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You can set the hook very fast with these rods when the fish bites. These factors make them ideal for finesse and ultra-light applications. In addition, you can use the extra fast action rods with jigs, worms and live baits.

Key Features

  • The Bend is only at the tip
  • Stiff blank that lets you feel every nibble
  • Ideal for finesse applications
  • You can use lures like jigs, worms and live baits.

Fast vs Extra Fast Action Rods: What’s the Difference?

Fast and extra-fast action rods are very similar. Some companies do not have separate rods for the two actions, so most anglers have difficulty telling the two apart. Their differences include;

Bend

When force is exerted on the fast action rods, they bend in the upper ¼ or 1/3 of the rod. On the other hand, the extra fast action rods bend only at the tip, leaving the rest of the blank stiff.

Sensitivity

Although the two rods are highly sensitive, Extra fast rods offer more sensitivity due to the firm blank. This way, you can feel every strike and nibble, so you will not miss a catch.

Lures

Fast action rods offer a wide variety of lures compared to the extra fast action rods. Fast Action rods are ideal for Texas rigs, Carolina rigs, Spinnerbaits, Jerk baits, Topwater baits and Buzz baits. In contrast, Extra fast action rods work best with jigs, worms and live baits.

Fast vs Extra Fast Action Rods: Head to Head Comparison Table

Fast
KastKing Perigee II Fishing Rods
Extra Fast
St. Croix Rods
Product
Lures
Lures
Texas Rigs, Carolina Rigs, Spinner Baits, Jerk Baits and Buzz Baits.
Jigs, Worms and Live Baits
Bend
Bend
Bend in the Upper ¼ and ⅓ Part of the Rod 
Bend Only at the Tip
Species
Species
Yellow Perch, Blue Gill, Crappie and Small
Musky, Pike and Largemouth Bass
Hook Application
Hook Application
Single Hook Application
Single Hook Application
Casting
Casting
Shorter Casting Distance
Shorter Casting Distance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a fast action rod good for?

Fast action rods are remarkably sensitive rods. They are used for light and finesse applications. Although their sensitivity cannot match up the extra fast rods, you will still feel the light movements and nibbles on the lures, making them perfect for light applications. In addition, the rods will thrive perfectly in applications like ice fishing.

What is an extra fast rod good for?     

Extra fast action rods are the most sensitive rods you can come across. This is because their blanks are extra stiff, so every vibration is transferred to your hand through the fishing line. Therefore, these fishing rods thrive in all finesse and ultra light applications. Additionally, you can be assured that you will not miss a single catch.

Are extra fast rods more sensitive?

Extra fast action rods only bend at the tip when force is applied. Therefore, they are the most sensitive rods you will come across. The stiff blank transmits all subtle movements. Consequently, you will not miss a single movement on the lure or subtle bits. This helps you become more alert and set the hook accordingly.

Final Impression

To avoid missing catches while fishing, you need to match the rod action and fishing technique. Fast and extra-fast action rods are remarkably sensitive so they excel in finesse and light applications. Extra fast action rods are the ideal companion as they let you detect even the subtle bites. However, they do not offer a wide range of lures. On the other hand, fast action rods are not as sensitive, but you can use them with a wide range of lures. The best choice is entirely dependent on the angler.

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