If a rod says it can handle up to a 1/2 oz lure size, what are the ramifications if you put on a slightly heavier weight (let's say 5/8 or 3/5)?  I have never really fished a rod beyond its recommended lure sizes but was curious to the pitfalls of doing it.

In that case, if you cast in more of a lob fashion vs. whipping the rod you'll be fine.  *Most* rods ratings are recommendations of best performance by prostaffers.  So along those lines, expect less casting distance and sluggish feel.  If you whip cast lures that are over weight, you could break the rod... but with some care in casting you can use heavier stuff.  

I would think that with a lure heavier than what the rating is on the rod, the lure is probably not going to go where you expect it to go.

You'd probably be OK using that 5/8oz bait on the rod rated for up to 1/2oz. You'll run into problems at 1oz and above. You'll have to lob it, and won't be as accurate as you're accustomed to.

Going under the lure weight rating will not hurt anything except you. You will wear yourself out trying to throw an 1/8oz bait on a rod rated for 1/4oz and up. Again, your accuracy will also suffer.

Cheers,

GK

Thanks all.  I figure a little extra weight won't hurt.  I was just worried if the tip of the rod would be damaged especially if the rod has a fast tip.  

Thanks all. I figure a little extra weight won't hurt. I was just worried if the tip of the rod would be damaged especially if the rod has a fast tip.

Well, I don't think that's what everyone is saying:

Oversized weight has the potential to damage or break your rod.

You should NOT exceed the recommended parameters of the rod.

Ditto what Roadwarrior said

Thanks again.  After further thoughts, I am going to stick within the parameters.  I was looking for some deep diving cranks but all are over 1/2 oz.  However, I did find the Luhr Jensen Hot Lips at 1/2 oz that can dive to 16 ft.  I was going to get some DD22's but will just opt for the Hot Lips and not risk damaging my rod.