I understand line weights, lure weights in rod selection but what is the idea behind "action" selection. Why do you choose "fast" action over medium, I'm just starting and a little confused over this aspect. Any pointers would help.
Thanks

St. Croix has a brief guide to this on their site.

http://www.stcroixrods.com/about/scd/power.html

I'm sure others can get into greater details.

I have see all the guides and explanations of what "action" is but what is the advantage of having your tip bend just at the top (fast action) or having the whole rod bend(slow action). Does it effect casting distance?? sensitivity or what...anyone??

Depends on what you want to do. Fast rods are good for slinging lures and such because of they load up quickly and release the energy fast.

Slower action rods that bend further into the butt are more forgiving when you are casting say eels where you are worried about ripping the hook out because the rod doesn't release the energy stored in the cast as quickly.

Just my 2 cents.

Thanks Fishpart,
That makes sense... Let's see, I want a Medium power spinning rod to handle a good size bass, fast/med fast action to cast plugs for 15# line from a boat. maybe 7'-8' from Rainshadow...any suggestions on what you have been happy with?
Thanks

SW 967

I'm looking to build my first rod this winter.

If you change the word "boat" to "kayak" (or breachway jetty) and add tossing eels and occasional tube-n-worm trolling to the plugging, would the same SW 967 blank be a good choice?

Thanks

Saltheart put it well. I just got a 965 and it is nice, but you might want the 967 for the big girls