A medium-power rod is usually the best choice for inshore saltwater fishing. Heavier power rods are better suited for heavier line weights, whereas lighter power rods are better suited for lighter lines. The rod action (quick, medium, or slow) indicates how much the rod bends when pressure is given to the tip. A fast action rod will bend more easily and be more flexible than a slow action rod. Medium-speed rods are recommended for most saltwater applications. The shape of the rod affects how it handles these different actions. A straight rod is easier to control than a curved one, so it's better for beginners or people who need to keep their hands on the rod. A curved rod is preferred by many experts because it allows them to work the fish from both sides of the boat without having to turn their body. Of course, this also makes it harder for beginners to use since they don't have as good of control over the rod. Saltwater fishing demands a strong rod that can handle heavy lines and heavy loads. The rod should also be easy to hold with one hand while you're driving or working another part of the boat. This means it should have a fairly large diameter tube, rather than a small one. Finally, the rod should have good sensitivity to feel any movement of the water even with just a little bit of a tug. These days, all of this can be achieved with a single rod designed specifically for saltwater fishing!