What is a test curve?

All carp rods have a test curve rating. But what exactly does it measure and what does it mean when it comes to choosing a rod?

Rod strengths explained

ATEST curve is a measurement, in pounds and ounces, of the weight required to pull a rod tip through a 90- degree angle. In simple terms, the higher the test curve rating, the stiffer the rod.

It wasn’t that long ago that any rod with a test curve over 3lb was considered a poker stiff ‘ broom handle’. Advances in rod building technology, however, mean that is no longer the case and it is now possible to get powerful high test curve rods that retain fish- playing finesse.

A 3lb test curve rod is now classed as an all- rounder, with 3.5lb and 3.75lb models more suited to casting long distances.

A 2.75lb or 2.5lb rod will be much softer, and while they are arguably more enjoyable to play fish, they don’t offer much casting power.

When it comes to choosing which rod is right for you, you need to consider a number of factors. If you are only going to be fishing smaller waters for fish averaging double figures, a 2.75lb test curve rod will be perfectly balanced with the lighter lines and smaller hooks and you won’t bump fish off.

If you fish waters of different sizes and use a range of tactics then a rod with a 3lb or 3.25lb test curve offers the best of both worlds. They can cast leads up to 3.5oz decent distances, launch small PVA bags with ease and are still great for playing fish.

If you fish large waters where long- range casting is required to reach the fish, you’ll need to sacrifice some of the fish- playing qualities and opt for a 3.5lb or 3.75lb rod that, when set- up correctly, can blast 4oz- plus leads more than 100 yards.