If you're using a float the rod is not as big a deal. Would go with the one that feels better in your hands
So I'm getting ready to purchase an rod for crappie fishing (mostly bank fishing under floats, casting small jigs and maybe jigging around some brush) and I think I've narrowed it down to two. It's going to be an ultralight, fast action, 7ft rod. I've pretty much decided to pair up a Pflueger President series reel with it. I've narrowed it down to two different rods right now:
Either a Gander Mountain Guide Series or a Shakespeare Agility. Has anyone used either of them before? Is one better than the other? I believe the Gander one is IM6 and the Shakespeare is IM8, and it lists being able to cast a 1/32 oz jig (the Gander one is only listed to 1/16 but I'm guessing it would work fine with 1/32).
So has anyone used either or both? Is one better in your opinion than another?
If you're using a float the rod is not as big a deal. Would go with the one that feels better in your hands
Slabs4Dinner LIKED above post
Shakespeare Ultralight Gx2 is great affordable combo. I love mine. It was 39.99 at Walmart.
For float fishing it probably does not matter. longer rod will at most times give better distance. But for bank fishing you need enough backbone to keep them out of the trees and brush and an UL may fall short in that respect.
Sorry my rod is medium! 6'6 really smooth and good looking combo.
Well im hoping to not always be fishing from the shore. Ive got a 6ft medium and its noticable that it cant cast lighter jigs very far.
Im not always going to be float fishing all the time, just one of my approaches. Id also be doing cast and retrieve with jigs, roadrunners, spoons, etc. I figured an ultralight would give me better distance as well as a better feel the thumps that i may be missing with my medium action . I also wanted something longer to give me a little better jigging opportunity around brush (if that works best for me i can always get a longer jigging pole)
You're gonna enjoy the 7 footer for casting light jigs. I agree with lowe that feel should be your deciding factor.
I have the Guide Series and a 7' BnM Sams SS, I would put them in the same category and enjoy using them both. With a good reel, they will whip a 1/16 oz jig with ease.
I agree on the B n' M Sam Heaton's Super Sensitive series. I have two of the 7 footers for casting jigs. Can't be beat. Very cost effective as well. And B n' M stands behind their equipment. Great jig rods too, with plenty of back bone. Perfect for use with 1/16 oz. jigs - in my opinion!
"A voyage in search of knowledge need never abandon the spirit of adventure."short grub LIKED above post
Bass Pro Shops Micro Lite Graphite are hard to beat when they are on sale.
wannabe fisherman LIKED above post