Thread: Trolling Rod Recommendations

Might be a little more than youre willing to spend but I like the Southern Crappie Rods. Theyll do it all...

https://southerncrappierods.com/

I'd consider 14' BnM Capps/Coleman rods ($60/Grizzly Jig ... discount for purchase of 3)

They're not "ideal" for Pushing cranks (w/2oz weights), but they'll work fine with 1oz weights for jigs & small cranks. I've not tried them for Spider Rigging, as I don't use that method. But with 1/2oz - 3/4oz weights they worked just fine for my buddy.

But that's only half the deal, as you'll need reels for each. Spider Rigging I'd go with Shimano or Okuma reels in the blister packs (<$20), but for Pushing jigs/cranks I'd go with Line Counter Reels (Shakespeare or Okuma) .... and they're gonna cost nearly 1/2 to 3/4 as much as the rods. Longline Trolling can be done with either type of reel, just more accurate with Line Counter Reels.

You might also keep your eyes on the Classifieds, as there are some rod/reel deals that pop up from time to time.

And if you don't already have them, you're gonna need some rod holders ... I like Hi-Tek rod holders, myself.

Originally Posted by CrappiePappy

I'd consider 14' BnM Capps/Coleman rods ($60/Grizzly Jig ... discount for purchase of 3)

They're not "ideal" for Pushing cranks (w/2oz weights), but they'll work fine with 1oz weights for jigs & small cranks. I've not tried them for Spider Rigging, as I don't use that method. But with 1/2oz - 3/4oz weights they worked just fine for my buddy.

But that's only half the deal, as you'll need reels for each. Spider Rigging I'd go with Shimano or Okuma reels in the blister packs (<$20), but for Pushing jigs/cranks I'd go with Line Counter Reels (Shakespeare or Okuma) .... and they're gonna cost nearly 1/2 to 3/4 as much as the rods. Longline Trolling can be done with either type of reel, just more accurate with Line Counter Reels.

You might also keep your eyes on the Classifieds, as there are some rod/reel deals that pop up from time to time.

And if you don't already have them, you're gonna need some rod holders ... I like Hi-Tek rod holders, myself.

thanks for the info. I feel like I’m probably not going to find an all around rod. I just don’t know what trolling method I’ll like best so wanted to find something that could be used for any of those. Good point on the reels. I’ll probably eventually go line counter but for now will just use the length of the rod to measure line length and use a bobber stop as an indicator

In my opinion it is hard to beat a B&M PST (Prostaff Trolling rod) for an all around rod. I have used them slow trolling, pulling jigs and pulling cranks. You could find a rod that fits each method better but for an overall they are hard to beat.

To start with, another vote for the HiTek rod holders I’ve been using for 15 years now. Scott and his dad make a good product. I used BnM BGJP’s from 8 to 12’ and never found them lacking except loading weights heavier than an ounce and a half. I’ve also never used the prostaffs Scott spoke of but they have a strong following. The ten and twelve foot BGJP’s have pulled cranks and jigs and I’ve always thought of them as a do all rod. I have dipped pads and weed, trolled jigs and cranks, and deep jigged in the winter with the 8 footers that I sold to Slabprowler. Let us know when you find what you’re after.

While I currently use some BGJPs for spider rigging, I've also used both Crappie Thunder (can't find them at Academy anymore) and B&M Pro-Staff rods for pulling crankbaits. While I did put my 14' Crappie Thunders back to spider rig duty with my 14' and 16' BGJPs, I still use a 10' Prostaff and 14' Southern Crappie Trolling Rod for pulling crankbaits.

Originally Posted by checkerfred

So I’m wanting to try out trolling but not spend a fortune on rods. Can someone give me some recommendations for some budget rods? I want to try all different styles of trolling (spider rigging, long lining, pushing crank baits) to see what I like but I don’t want different rods for each. Is there a rod that will work with trolling lighter jigs but then also be able to use heavier weights for pushing/pulling jigs and cranks? TIA

What part of Alabama you in?
I got a 16 foot ACC Crappie Stix trolling rod for Christmas. Problem is I don’t troll. Think you can get it for mid $60’s. It’s brand new if you will give me $45.00 it’s yours. Nice rod I just don’t troll.

I am from Robertsdale AL. Presently in Mississippi taking care of elderly parent. But will be in Robertsdale area for almost the entire month of April.

Let me know if you want high end rod at bargain price.


Sent from my iPhone using Crappie.com

Originally Posted by silverroach

What part of Alabama you in?
I got a 16 foot ACC Crappie Stix trolling rod for Christmas. Problem is I don’t troll. Think you can get it for mid $60’s. It’s brand new if you will give me $45.00 it’s yours. Nice rod I just don’t troll.

I am from Robertsdale AL. Presently in Mississippi taking care of elderly parent. But will be in Robertsdale area for almost the entire month of April.

Let me know if you want high end rod at bargain price.


Sent from my iPhone using Crappie.com

Oneonta…I appreciate the offer but really don’t want to go to 16’ rods. I’ll probably go 12’ or 14’ max