What are you guys using

[Merkel]

I like quality stuff and wanted to add a dedicated high end Crappie rod/reel to the stable. I have been looking at Loomis and St Croix. Thoughts on which one would be best for bank/dock fishing. Suggestions on high end reel. I know I don’t need to spend much for this fish but it’s more of a want.........

[DockShootinJack]

There are some threads on JDM rods and reels. High end Japanese domestic market tackle

[skeetbum]

I start shaking when I look at high end gear. You’ll do better getting input from other folks that have more experience than I do. On my want list though is the St Croix premier 66lf. One piece light fast action that is a feather in your hand. Never fished one but really like it in my hand.

[Alphahawk]

I like quality stuff and wanted to add a dedicated high end Crappie rod/reel to the stable. I have been looking at Loomis and St Croix. Thoughts on which one would be best for bank/dock fishing. Suggestions on high end reel. I know I don’t need to spend much for this fish but it’s more of a want.........

If you want to see some high end gear in use for crappie….and other specie…check out my channel. All of my gear is out of Japan….first thing I tell folks is nope….you don’t need it….but it sure makes for a lot of fun.

TroutMagnetMan - YouTube

Regards




Sent from my iPad using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

[P-row]

The St. Croix panfish series rods would be my first choice. As for a reel, Daiwa makes all kinds of great spinning reels. Even a high end Shimano or Pfluger would work great.

[deathb4disco]

There are some threads on JDM rods and reels. High end Japanese domestic market tackle

Located here:

https://www.crappie.com/crappie/all-things-ultralight/

[Oregon slabman]

If you truly want high end, Alphahawk is the man to talk to. That being said, I fished with a guy a few days ago that had a 6' St. Croix that impressed me. I don't know the model # but the light tip and the parabolic action looked perfect to me.

[deathb4disco]

I like quality stuff and wanted to add a dedicated high end Crappie rod/reel to the stable. I have been looking at Loomis and St Croix. Thoughts on which one would be best for bank/dock fishing. Suggestions on high end reel. I know I don’t need to spend much for this fish but it’s more of a want.........

For Loomis, I suggest either the Trout Series or the Classic Trout Panfish rods. I own rods from each series, and they are excellent.

For St. Croix, I suggest an Avid in light or ultra light. I sold an Avid once and still regret it.

That said, I’d pick a JDM rod over Loomis or St. Croix.

[livemusic]

I have been down a similar path. Started a few years ago, then I didn't fish much for a few years. Got back into it heavy in March this year. It depends on what size lure you wish to cast. If it's small, say, 1/32 and smaller, a JDM ultralight rod/reel is probably what you seek. Now, choosing that can be very time-consuming. You can do just fine with something inexpensive. I have a Shakespeare micro series rod, 7 ft, that I like a lot of it's dirt cheap. I paid $34 but could have gotten it for a lot less. I also have a B 'n' M, Sam Heaton Super Sensitive, 9 ft. It is actually a jig pole but it casts fine. I have cheap reels on them. A cheap, $30 Lews and a Pfleuger President 20 series for $50. I tend to enjoy long rods, I like to let fish run and enjoy the pull and longer rods are fun. As for JDM, you are probably looking at $450 total MINIMUM for rod n reel. Say, $200 and higher for a rod and $250 and higher for a reel. Just say $500 minimum total. I am in the process of ordering a JDM rod n reel and total is around $600.

On rods, look at the specs. Often written on the rod or see online specs. Recommended lure weight range and recommended line test ratings. For reels, number of bearings and other factors, such as spool size. If you do not care so much for ultralight, you might can spend a little less and even buy American rods. I don't think you'd have to go the JDM route if you are just going to fish for crappie but if you bank fish, you will likely be catching bream and other species. Casting small lures is an issue and JDM is probably something you should look into.

[PopsTS]

I don't know if they're considered high end or not, most are between $60 -$100, but I'm hearing good things about ACC Crappie Stix. I don't have any first hand knowledge about them, but they seem to be getting good reviews. Most of the rods are out of stock on their website right now, so I'm guessing they're popular (or the supply chain might be broken).