View Full Version : need advice for new rod
Reelmn
12-02-2001, 07:52 AM
I need some input in regards to purchasing a new casting rod. I have started using a lot of blade baits such as Cicades and Silver Buddies. I am in the market for a good casting rod for this purpose and want good dollar value without breaking the bank. Help me if you can.
River_eye
12-02-2001, 03:24 PM
You need to go down to the tackle shop and get a feel for what you like. The rods that I think are a really good value are Falcon rods. They make a lot of different casting rods, and they're all high quality. I have a FC-117, and it's about $70 US. I've caught a lot of fish on it, and it's stood up to a lot of abuse.
www.falconrods.com
Nothing better then a Berkly Lightin rod for the money.
Kevin/CO
12-02-2001, 05:16 PM
The Shakespear ugly stick rods are very strong while flexable and cheap.For $30.00 they are atleast worth looking at.
Berkley Bioniox IM8 (a knock off from the lightning rod but better quality)
is a super great rod at $50.00. I have 4 and I wouldn't hesitate to buy 4 more. They are available at the local smallmarts, and VERY light in weight making a day of casting effortless.
DR
You should try the new Fenwick HMGAV rod that is out. It sells for about $150. It is a step above the HMG.
>You should try the new Fenwick HMGAV rod that is out. It
>sells for about $150. It is a step above the HMG.
Got to agree - this is one AWESOME rod. Puts the rest of mine to shame and there are no slouches in the bunch. I must say that it is VERY expensive, for a fishing pole ($125+), but if you can swing it - take a look. I have some Ugly sticks, some Cabelas, some Bass Pro, and St Croix's that I like and they do a fine job but once you hang onto this HMGAV you won't want to put it down. I don't have any of those fancy "custom" rods but I must say that this rod is "night and day" above the rest, even the Croix.
If I had more time to fish and could justify it, I would put several more on the layaway plan.
lobo
Peanut
12-03-2001, 10:30 AM
Another vote for Lightning Rods. They are not your top-end, but the cost is very reasonable, and I've found them to be very good. They make 'em in every length and action, so you should find something you're comfortable with. One of my rods is a 6'6" medium action Lightning Rod - it's bounced around boats and vehicles for four years - without any trouble. I would recommend them to anyone.
Also, if you have a little more than $60-80 to spend, think about the Berkley Series One rods - very nice, and still can be found for under $120.
derrek.
CANADIAN WALLEYE OPEN UP AND SAY "EH"!
Depends on your price range for this rod. I have expensive rods ($150+)and inexpensive rods (<$50). For expensive rods, some of the recommendations above are very good (I have several of those recommended). For inexpensive I would recommend you go to Walmart and find the Harold Ensly casting rod (cork handle, medium light action $29.95) and the new Zebco casting reel (dont know the model, but it is light green with silver trim). I have this set up and couldn't be happier for casting small silver buddys, cicadias and top water plugs. (Actually, it is my second one of the same set-up. I made the mistake of casting, laying the rod on my lap instead of the rod holder while I reached up to adjust my cap and the world record large mouth bass yanked the rod and reel overboard. I know it was a world record as nothing less could make me look so stupid. :-) ).