The deflection percentage is the amount the rod deflects divided by the perspective length given above. You may conduct a similar test by sighting down the rod from the butt end and visually checking the amount of deflection. This will yield general answers for assessing rod actions. In general, the rods that deflect less may be classified as a faster action rod. The measurements from the laboratory help one to predict how the rod may perform from the spreadsheet .
Poor designs lead to increased joint problems and fatigue much quicker on the water.
One benefit from this study is that it provides the consumer with simple tests to perform when considering purchasing a rod. Rod actions are designed to do many different things when fishing. For example, rods which would be excellent for nymph fishing may typically be a poor choice for dry fly fishing. Traditionally, these types of actions were referred to as dry fly or wet fly actions. It is my belief that this still exist just as strongly today.