When choosing rods and reels, it is important to take into account the action. It is simply the exact location on the rod that bends when pressure is applied. You can choose from fast, medium or slow fishing rods. However, you may also be able to split them into shorter designations such as ultra-fast and medium-fast. The blank is bent at the top for fast action rods. These rods are ideal for fighting fish and detecting small bites. The rods of the slow-action series bend towards the bottom. These rods are ideal for smaller, less aggressive species of fish because they have great flexibility. Medium action rods are the best choice if your fish species is fast. Although they are not the most sensitive, they can cast baits farther and allow multi-bait configurations.