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I am wanting to do some spider rigging this spring and therefore I am looking for a few new rods.
I looked on the B and M site and they have three options. Two of the options start at around 35-40 $ and the other starts at around $12. The later is called the slo-troller. anyone use one of these? I know you get what you pay for. In your opinion is it worth it to go with the higher end rods.
Any other suggestions on brands of trolling/spider rigging rods is appreciated.
I don't see how you could go wrong with the slo-trollers. I have ran them through the gauntlet and have no complaints at all. Here's a link to some other member's experience with them. http://www.crappie.com/gr8vb3/showth...ht=slo-troller
Here's a review of them that I posted a while back...
My experiences with these rods...I have 7 of them for slo-trollin' off the bow. I use a modified caps & coleman rig(usually 1/2 to 3/4oz egg sinker). I'm really impressed with the way they handle. They are somewhat heavy (although I've tried ones a lot heavier than these), but hey...isn't that what the rod holders are for? I do like the bend put in these rods by the heavy weights because it only helps to stabilize the baits during wavy conditions (the rod tips give and therefore keep the bait stationary).
I have put them through the ringer and have no complaints on the durability. I've landed 2-3lb crappie on them with no problem at all (and that's even fishing about 3' deep). I've also had them hung-up so bad that the first 3 sections of the rod were completely bent over in the water.
My advice is to get a couple of them. If you end up not liking them...you're only out a few bucks. Hope this helps. CEB -
I went with the later the first time and ended up buying the $35-40 ones later. I definitely think it is worth the extra money plus they will replace the higher end ones if you happen to break one. I have 8 of the B&M Slo Trolling Rod 12ft and love them. I had the $12 and they worked but like you said you get what you pay for... I don't know what part of Arkansas you are from but Grizzly Jig Co. in Caruthersville, MO has them at a decent price. That is where I purchased all my poles. Just my .02
ad870,
I ordered 20 of the slo-troller 13 footers, but have yet to use them. I know that sounds stupid :eek: to not have used one before and order that many but I got a good price on them and that is all I wanted to spend for the qty I needed. I will be going tomorrow and I will let you know what I think. I am sure they will be alright with me since I am used to using cane poles in a smaller jon boat. I have used fiberglass poles of a different brand (not sure what) that my buddy has and they do fine with minnows and jigs but do not think they would do good for cranks. I have read in other posts on here in the past that some like them and some think they are junk but if one breaks then you are not out but about 10 to 12 dollars.
OMEN
I went yesterday as I stated and I thought the poles were great. Had plenty of backbone and most fish hooked themselves. Caught 52 crappie. I also caught several bass in the 3 pound range with no problem. I think you will be pleased with them.
thanks for the report Omen and congrats on the fish. I'm jealous.