Sometimes, depending on the specifics of the fish, the tackle, and angler experience, but actually, unless you are totally overpowering a fish (which happens a lot in bass fishing) then a stiffer rod and less stretch in the line will make the fight seem greater, even though it's still the same. Now if you are attached to something that can cause your equipment to fail, then yes, it will feel like more of a fight, even though again, the fish is doing all it can most of the time.