There is something about ultralight fishing that makes it more exciting than regular fishing. I learned it when I caught my first fish on ultralight rig. Even with a small fish on the line, you have to fight it, get it out, and then bring it in, but not before one last dive to the bottom that makes your reel scream. With a big fish, on the other hand, it feels like you’ve hooked a whale by the tail. It definitely puts the sport in sport fishing.

Anyway, back to what I wanted to talk about. I bought this ultralight rod about 4 years ago. It was the best fishing rod I have ever had. It was lightweight, super balanced, and responsive to every little tick. I loved that fishing rod. After fishing that rod (HARD) for all these years, even catching fish as big as a 13-15 pound coho salmon, it finally croaked for me. The tip snapped off cleanly.

So… Since I’m looking for a new UL fishing rod, I’ve put together a list of all the qualities I look for when buying one.

1) Light – This helps the bar feel more like an extension of your arm. The rod is easier to handle, improving casting distance and accuracy. Plus, it lessens the fatigue of casting all day.

2) Balanced – With the reel in the reel seat, you should be able to balance the rod horizontally on your right finger in front of the reel. Again, this makes the rod easier to handle, increasing hookups and sensitivity.

3) thin – I prefer the rod to be as thin as possible, this includes the guides. When you whip the rod, it should be able to cut through the air with little friction.

4) Medium to fast action – The last thing I need in an ultralight rod is for it to be “soft”. This is why I prefer a medium action rod to a fast one. This means that the rod is more sensitive and has more hook-setting power.

5) Sensitive – The sensitivity of the rod is based on some of the qualities mentioned above, such as: lightness, balance and action. This is the most important factor for me. I like to feel every tick and bump at the end of the line. Note: The fishing rod is not the only aspect of sensitivity, the fishing line makes a big difference here. I like to use a line that doesn’t stretch for added sensitivity.

6) strong – I know a UL rod isn’t meant to be too strong, but I still prefer it to have a bit of backbone. This is just in case I get hooked on the fish of my life.

That is what I call a perfect ultralight fishing rod. Just pair it with a high quality spinning reel and a good line that doesn’t stretch.