Thread: types of poles and lengths

the only thing I can say for certain on rods (cause I am still experimenting myself) is that for jigging I am sold on the 12 foot Sam heaton SS. All the other rods I have I am still playing with

South Bend Black Beauty or Black Beauty 2 in 12 foot model are my absolute favorite. I usually can only find them online. Just bought 6 on eBay after finally breaking my last one after 4 or 5 years of heavy use. In my opinion these are the best poles out there and I have tried BnM, Slaters, Zebco, Wally and a few knock offs both graphite and fiberglass. The South Bends have great sensitivity, lightweight and plenty of backbone for those 2+ fish and the occassional large bass or catfish.

Originally Posted by feelay

I cut my own cane, string um with kite string, and use paper clips for hooks!

ha ha you Joking right?

Y does everybody use 11 and 12's, especially wading?

Generally speaking Soremouth, the cover we wade in is actually pretty sparse. I have been in stuff where 10, 11 and 12 are way too much, but it's pretty uncommon. Shorter was more popular when the COEs were normally high in the spring. However (the last 2 year for example) have been higher, so they'll probably come back. They have their place, but I'm more comfortable with an 11 or 12.

Past the wading question, the longer, the further you can stand off from the fish without worrying about spooking them in the shallows with a boat. I don't do a lot of deep jigging, but when I do, I go for the 11s as they are lighter. Bet you'd find that the shorter rod is more popular for deep jigging. But generally I'm referrring to shallow - say under 6' and wading and the more common times when I've got a jig pole in hand.

Then again, if I'm wrong, I'm sure someone will say so.

Wannabe...