IMOHO, get her a good Shimano reel. It don't have to be a real expensive one. For a rod, take her to the store and let her hold them and pick one out that feel right to her.
This should get many responses as I am sure all have their preferences.
I am looking for the best light tackle to pitch 1/8 and 1/16 jigs with for crappie?
I want something that will work well for the wife who is a novice and wants to learn how to fish artificial baits.
2018 Tracker Super Guide 40hp 4 Stroke
Garmin Striker 7sv
Minn Kota Powerdrive with iPilot
Marine Raider Rod Holders Modified for Versatrack
IMOHO, get her a good Shimano reel. It don't have to be a real expensive one. For a rod, take her to the store and let her hold them and pick one out that feel right to her.
Fair Winds and Following Seas
Bill H. PTC USN Ret
Chesapeake, Va
I concur with IBNFSHN...can't go wrong with Shimano.
Make sure you guide her toward the type of rods that will work best for pitching, but letting her pick the one that feels comfortable to her will be a master stroke...
Good luck and happy times together fishing!
Gadget Man
I think an 8' is the ticket for a beginner. I like the B'n'M BGJP 82 with an underspin reel, there are many reel manufactures that produce these. B'n'M also has there own model. I also like the Wally Marshall 8' it has a nice feel. The total rig will run about $65 for which ever you choose.
A Bad Day of Fishing is Better Than a Good Day of Work!
I think I'd stick with something around the 6ft length, in a rod. They're a lot more "controllable" than a much longer/shorter rod. Something in a med to med/lite action (novice's may have trouble with proper hook set speed/power).
Reel should match/balance the rod, and not be feather lite (making the rod tip heavy) ... nor be heavy as a rock (making the outfit cumbersome to hold/use for any extended period of time). Something that has a wide line spool, reels smoothly, & has a smooth drag system.
I agree with the others ... take her somewhere that she can put a reel on a rod, and "test" it to her preference (weight, feel, length, type of grip, etc)
One question, though Are you actually referring to "pitching" a jig .... or are you really referring to "casting" a jig ?? If you actually use the "pitching" technique .... you may want to consider a 7-8ft rod. (my information leans towards the "casting" technique, as far as rod length)
What type of reel is she currently using ? Spincast, spinning, underspin ??
What does the budget allow ?? Do you want to start her out "inexpensive", then let her decide when to "upgrade" ... or start her out with high quality, and/or on a equal basis with what you're using ??
... cp
Thanks to all that replied, will check them out
2018 Tracker Super Guide 40hp 4 Stroke
Garmin Striker 7sv
Minn Kota Powerdrive with iPilot
Marine Raider Rod Holders Modified for Versatrack
What price range are you trying to stay within?
A good combination you won't have to replace as your wife gains experience is a 5-1/2' to 6-1/2' St. Croix Premier UL spinning rod ($80) and a Pflueger President 6725 spinning reel ($60). This combination is light in weight so her arm does not get tired from casting all day and is very sensitive so it will be easier for her to feel a bite.
Keith
2008 NWR Bash Crappie Champion
2010 NWR Bash Yellow Perch Champion
2010 Buggs Bash Smallest Crappie Award
BPS sells the Wally Marshall combos in a couple different sizes and styles and they are nice and affordable,especially if you catch them on sale.