Thread: All Around Trolling Rods

Originally Posted by MEATGETTER

I would recommend go ahead and start with the 16's for 3 reasons 1st. Further from the boat = more bites #2 starting with the 16's once u get use to them u got it if u start with a shorter pole u still have that learning curve move up to 16's later! !!! #3 buying shorter rod then having to by 16's later no sence in buying twice! !!!

Agree fishing father from boat equals more bites! I started with 10 then went to 12 and currently at 14 foot BNM PST's! Your fishing in front of that trolling motor! Do the math.

I've pulled cranks with 2oz weights ahead of them, using 14' collapsible rods (a buddy's rods) and had no problems with them. I push jigs with 1/2oz - 3/4oz weights on BnM PST's & Capps & Coleman 14' rods (& have pulled cranks with them) ... and the Capps/Coleman rod is just a tad bit softer in the tip.

That being said ... if the Southern Crappie rods are as good as the people that own them say they are ... they'd be worth a serious look IMHO. Their 14' rods are in the $45/ea range, where the BnM 14' rods (like I have) are closer to the $75/ea range (thru BnM) .... but, can be had thru Grizzly Jigs at the $45/ea range (if you buy 3).

All three fishing methods can be done with "off brand" rods, at a cheaper cost ... but, if it were my money, I'd just buy fewer quality rods to start with, then add to them as the budget allowed. I'm currently pushing jigs with just three 14' rods & one 10' rod (sometimes). I'm relatively new to the long rod fishing methods, myself, and not ready to put down my jig casting rods ... so I'm waiting until I get more water time with the long rods, before I commit to adding more of them to my spread.

Cheapest way I know of to get the BnM PST's or C/C rods ... is to know someone that fishes the CUSA tournaments, and have them purchase them for you at the sponsor's booths, prior to the tourney. The only other way to get them cheaper than that ... is to win them at one of the Crappie Camps or get togethers put on by site members.

Used rods "can" be purchased from the Classifieds forums. I've purchased a DI unit, rod holders, and several reels from members ... all good deals & in good condition (as advertised). Can't say about the rods, as I've not made such a purchase from a member.

... cp

Went into the Walmart on Parker Road here in Jonesboro the other day and they had 14' B&M PST rods for $49.95, not sure if there is a difference, but that is 25 bucks cheaper than the B&M web site price.

Everyone has their choice and their reasons for making them.
I just swapped this year from a fiberglass rod to a graphite rod. I chose Southern Crappie Rods. I have not been disappointed at all. I chose these rods after reading great reviews on them and a point that was made to me. You don't see Southern Crappie Rods for sale in the classifieds here. I now understand why people keep them.
Good luck with whatever you choose to do!

I use B N' M PRO STAFF 16FT Trolling poles also have a set of capps and coleman tips. With the pro staff tips I can use 2oz weights to pro troll or pull cranks and with the C & C tip I have the extra sensitive for spiderring with the back bone! !!! So is really like 2 sets of poles in one Plus their customers service is 2nd to none !!!!!