Suggestions for a new spinning rod?

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pogon02

Well-Known Member
Joined
Sep 20, 2007
Messages
260
Hey Guys,

I am looking for a decent all around spinning rod to team up with my new ABU Garcia 503 ALB Cardinal reel any suggestions? This rod will be used for all around fishing mostly Bass and Pike
 
How much are you willing to spend? Im currently going nuts about these new Rapala Shift Rods. I bought 2 at the beginning of the month and man are these rods ever light and very sensitive. I have 1 for my Core 51mg7 and another for my Stradic CI4 spinning. Le baron sells them for $140, but I believe these guys can easily compete against Shimanos higher end Crucials and Cumaras.
 
The mojo bass is nice for the price. Whatever rod you buy make sure it has a great warranty. Shimano, st. Croix, loomis are great in this matter. The compre is also a good choice.
 
I am looking to spend $100.00 to $150. on the Rod. I wanted to also know whether it would be worth it to buy a rod which is $300.00 and more is there really that much difference?
 
I think there is a difference. However, whether that difference justifies the price depends on a few things:

1. What techniques and species are you targetting with this rod. Generally the higher prices are due to higher end components. These components usually result in lighter, more sensitive rods. The sensitivity is generally what you pay for. Now, if you are fishing a technique such as crankbaiting, then sensitivity is not generally the most important factor. If you are fishing bottom contact bait techniques, then sensitivity is paramount.

2. How good is your sense of touch? Seriously. Will YOU notice the difference in the sensitivity. I would hazard that the general angling population could not sense a significant difference between a $150 and a $300 rod.

This translates into the cost:benefit ratio. Everyone has one that they generally adhere to unless stricken by love at first sight - which turns us from intelligent shoppers into impulse buyers. How important is it to you to get that last little bit of sensitivity? If you are a tournament angler who needs or wants every possible advantage, then that extra bit of sensitivity may be worth an extra $150. To most, it may not be. Now, if you are a gear fanatic, then that is a different story and the cost:benefit ratio skews somewhat.

In the $100-150 range, you can look at Shimano Compre Rods. Check out the Rapala Shift rods (at LeBaron). These rods are amazing! I am super impressed with the. There are also Powell rods (which you would have to check online at sites like Tackle Warehouse). But, in that price range, I would look at the Rapala.

Good luck
 
In my opinion, St. Croix is your best value for the money. I picked up a St. Croix premier 7' Med. for both bass and pike. It has great sensitivity for jigging and more finesse type situations and enough back bone to pull in a big pike. For me, this rod is as good as a lower end G. Loomis, which would cost you much more.

Good luck
 
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