Rod, Reel & Line Questions

[jessedvw]

So there are many different rod lenths and power options and the same with line, many weights and types. My question is what is the benefit of using longer vs. shorter rods or particular uses for each one and same with using heavy rods vs. light rods. And for line, what is the specific purpose of different types of line; fluoro, mono, braid? And as far as reels go what is the purpose of using either spinning or baitcasting reels? Are any of these categories better suited towards different types of baits? I have quite a few different combos but I can't justify why.  I know this is quite an overwhelming question but I can't seem to figure it all out on my own.

[DDSBYDAY]

So there are many different rod lenths and power options and the same with line, many weights and types. My question is what is the benefit of using longer vs. shorter rods or particular uses for each one and same with using heavy rods vs. light rods. And for line, what is the specific purpose of different types of line; fluoro, mono, braid? And as far as reels go what is the purpose of using either spinning or baitcasting reels? Are any of these categories better suited towards different types of baits? I have quite a few different combos but I can't justify why.  I know this is quite an overwhelming question but I can't seem to figure it all out on my own.

   Cliff notes:  (600 pages to 1)    Long rods take up slack faster.  Long snells require long rods or you can't get the fish to the net.  Flouro is clear.  Makes a great leader and very tough.  It also sinks.  Mono has stretch.  Braid is cut your hand off tough.  I really like it with a flouro leader.  Braid is also no stretch.  Baitcasters are better in my opinion for heavier baits.  I also like the baitcasters because of thumb control on free spool when trolling. 

   

[kenhuntin]

I prefer a long rod when it comes to live bait fishing.  It seems that you can get a slow start to a cast and not sling the bait off as you need to really whip a short rod .