What are the physics behind fishing rods?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of fishing rods, specifically their mechanical properties and how they relate to casting distance. Key concepts include the classification of fishing rods as springs or beams, and the application of long deformation theory. The user seeks to understand how variables such as rod length, lure weight, and rod stiffness affect casting distance, aiming to develop a mathematical model for these relationships. Participants encourage further research into existing literature to gain foundational knowledge.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic mechanics, including forces and motion
  • Familiarity with concepts of elasticity and deformation
  • Knowledge of mathematical modeling techniques
  • Basic principles of physics related to levers and beams
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of beams and springs in physics
  • Study long deformation theory and its applications
  • Learn about the mathematical modeling of projectile motion
  • Explore existing literature on fishing rod mechanics and casting techniques
USEFUL FOR

Physics enthusiasts, fishing equipment designers, and anglers interested in optimizing their casting techniques through a better understanding of the mechanics involved in fishing rods.

physical angler
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Hi everyone,

First post here. Been out of school for a while and quite rusty, but always had an interest in physics, and was pretty good back in the day.

Can anyone help me understand the physics of fishing rods?

How to look at a fishing rod in terms of physics and mechanics? (i.e. is it a spring, is it a beam?) I think I've read something online about long deformation theory. Can anybody provide insight?

I want to run some math to determine how maximum casting distance changes due to different rod lengths, lure weights, length of line hanging from rod tip on the cast, and stiffness of rod. All these variables might be too complex to calculate. If so, please let me know. If I can get just a basic understanding, that would be great. Of course, I would love to be able to calculate my casting distance by plugging in rod-length (casting arc) and lure weight variables, assuming zero air-resistance on the lure and line.

Thank you very much.
 
Last edited:
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Welcome to the PF. :smile:

Doing a Google search on your thread title turns up quite a few sources of information on this. Have you already read through those?
 
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berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

Doing a Google search on your thread title turns up quite a few sources of information on this. Have you already read through those?

Hi Berkeman,

Don't I feel dumb? I Googled "mechanics of fishing rods" and came up with a bunch of (what seemed to me) irrelevant articles. Going to have a read-through and I'll be back if I'm still baffled.
 
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