Are you ready to take your fishing experience to new heights – quite literally? Drone fishing has taken the fishing world by storm, offering a unique way to cast your line far beyond what traditional fishing methods allow. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about the gear required for an exciting drone fishing adventure. From specialised rods to robust reels and the ideal fishing line, we've got you covered. So, before you launch your drone into the open waters, let's dive into the essential gear that will ensure your success.
What Gear do I need?
Rods: The Backbone of Your Drone Fishing Setup
Your drone fishing rod plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and successful fishing experience. Here's what you need to know:
1. Length Matters
Traditional fishing often limits your casting distance, but with a drone, you can use a tall rod, preferably over 10 feet in length. This extra length helps keep your fishing line clear of turbulent waves, reducing the chances of tangling. Drones enable you to reach spots that were previously inaccessible, opening up a world of fishing opportunities.
2. Strength and Sturdiness
When it comes to traditional fishing, you might need to compromise on the type of rod you use, depending on your budget. However, with drone fishing, you have the freedom to choose a rod that's both sturdy and capable of handling the tension of a determined fish. Look for rods with a breaking strain of at least 10 kg. Notable brands like Oannes, G-Reaper, and Valkyrie even offer specialised drone fishing rods designed for this purpose. But even if you're on a budget with a $30 surf rod, it can still do the job effectively as long as your reel matches the rod's capabilities. Drones level the playing field, allowing you to use the best gear for the job.
Reels: The Powerhouse Behind Every Successful Cast
Your choice of reel is crucial for drone fishing, as it directly affects your line management and casting efficiency.
1. Line Capacity
Traditional casting methods often limit your line capacity. However, when selecting a reel for drone fishing, prioritise those with a substantial line capacity, ideally exceeding 500 metres. This capacity ensures you have enough line to reach your desired fishing spot, even when dealing with larger species. Drones offer you the ability to access distant waters without worrying about the constraints of traditional reels. Fishing Drones such as Aeroo offer incredible reach, making precision dropping so much easier, so make sure you've got the line capacity to back it up!
2. Strength and Durability
Given the demands of drone fishing, your reel needs to be robust, with a strength rating of at least 15kg. This durability not only aids in catching fish but also ensures smooth reeling over long distances. Drones allow you to target larger species and reel them in effortlessly, thanks to the superior strength and durability of modern drone fishing reels.
Line: The Connection Between You and Your Catch
Choosing the right fishing line is essential to maximise your drone fishing experience. Here are the options:
1. Braid: The Go-To Choice
Braid is a popular choice for drone fishing due to its strength and thinness, which optimises spool capacity. With traditional fishing, you might struggle with casting distance due to thicker lines, but drones allow you to use a 20 or 30 lb mainline, which is typically sufficient for most fish. However, if you're targeting larger species, you may want to opt for a thicker, sturdier line. Drones provide the advantage of using thinner lines while maintaining strength, thanks to their advanced line management capabilities.
2. Monofilament or Fluorocarbon: Alternatives to Consider
While braid is a top choice, traditional fishing lines like monofilament and fluorocarbon can be alternatives. Monofilament offers affordability and elasticity, making it a good alternative to braid. On the other hand, fluorocarbon is nearly invisible underwater and highly resistant to wear and tear. However, both options may pose a challenge in terms of fitting a sufficient length on your reel due to their thickness. Drones allow you to experiment with various lines, finding the one that suits your fishing style best.
3. Ensuring the Perfect Drop Loop
For successful drone fishing, it's crucial that your line fits snugly into the safety clip, ensuring it releases at the correct tension. We recommend using a 30lb fluorocarbon line for this purpose. Any Mono/Fluorocarbon line with a diameter between 0.3-0.4mm will release at optimal tensions. Drones give you the precision needed to ensure your line operates flawlessly, enhancing your chances of a successful catch.
Conclusion
As you prepare for your next drone fishing adventure, remember that the right gear can make all the difference between a memorable catch and a disappointing day on the water. Investing in a suitable rod, reel, and line will not only increase your chances of success but also enhance your overall fishing experience. Drones provide you with the freedom to choose the best gear for the job, offering unmatched advantages over traditional fishing methods. So, whether you're a seasoned fisherman or new to the world of drone fishing, make sure to equip yourself with the essentials mentioned in this guide. Happy fishing!