Thread: advice on open water rod

Those are some great rods you're looking at. Personally, I wouldn't spend that much on a rod until I had it in my hands to get a feel for it. The Falcon will be heavier than the others. I have thousands of dollars tied up in expensive fishing rods, but they never go fishing anymore. My favorite crappie rod is Eagle Claw Feather Lites 6', not because they're cheap (@ $20), but because I catch more fish with them. The rod balances very well with an ultra lite reel, I can see the bite much easier with the flimsy tip and it has plenty of backbone to drive the hook through the roof of the crappie's mouth. Just my thoughts.

Originally Posted by Jwetovick

Thanks. Which B n M rods are made in 6ft length? I dont see many at all listed on cabelas site. They are all 7ft and longer. I have not gotten into long rods for crappie at this point.

Go on the B n' M site and check out their Ultra-Light series. The list many models from 4'10" up to 6'6". However, I'd take a hard look at the Sam Heaton's Super Sensitive in 7' length. I've used this rod for over 5 years now. Casts like a dream and the extra foot will not take much of an adjustment, I'm very sure.

I don't care for most rods that are listed as UL. A parabolic bend just doesn't work for me. I like a stiffer midsection for surprise fish, but a faster action giving a soft tip that loads well and lends to really launching a tiny jig very well. A St. Croix 66lf one piece has had my attention for some time. Though I hate to admit it, I agree with DBD that you REALLY need to handle whatever you gonna throw down the nickels for. And handling it without the reel you have in mind is like buying a car that looks good with no motor in it. A sweet rod has balance and makes it unnoticed in your hand, and you will know it when you feel it and money won't matter. It's that good. If you see someone that has a rod that look like it might be a contender in someones boat, or they speak of one in conversation, get your hands on it and pick their brain as to WHY they like it. Most folks will gladly tell you that and more if you ask nicely. Good luck in your search, there's lots to choose from.

I have a 7ft Avid 1 piece Ultra Light that I really don't like using for crappie it's too soft of a action for me. I prefer a fast or extra fast action. I've picked up a St. Croix panfish several times at a local store several times and prefer the feel over my Avid, I was going to buy one last year but never did, I spent my money on a new bass rod.

Originally Posted by Greenwing

I have a 7ft Avid 1 piece Ultra Light that I really don't like using for crappie it's too soft of a action for me.

I agree completely on the 7' Avid -- way too soft for my tastes. The six-footer, however, is sweet!