Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fishing rod (10) that is capable of providing a selectively variable action. That is, the rod (10) can be changed from a stiffer to a softer action not only while the rod is being prepared for casting a lure but also while the rod is being used to play a fish. The rod (10) has a sheath (13) with a handle (11) secured thereto such that the sheath (13) extends forwardly of the handle (11). The line and tip guides (14 and 15) are affixed to the sheath (13). The interior of the sheath (13) defines a hollow, preferably conical, cavity (25) that extends for at least one half the length of the sheath (13). A blade (30) that is preferably tapered in conformity with the taper of the cavity (25) within the sheath (13) is received within the cavity (25), and means (31) are provided selectively to translate the blade (30) longitudinally within the cavity (25) and thereby selectively vary the action of the rod (10).