Lead Core specialty rods- DIY, custom rod maker, or otc?

[Jim Carroll]

I've been looking for 2 rods for lead core. These rods must have the following attributes-

1. 5' max in length
2. Trolling style, long, 16"+ rod handle
3. Reel seat capable of holding Daiwa SG47LC
4. Slow action tip with some power in the butt section

I use a rod like this occasionally when pulling 4 lead lines without boards. The setup I use is two 10'6" rods straight out to the sides with two shortys inside and angled back. I would like the rods to be easily handled as I generally will hold one to give the bait a little stop-n-go. This rules out the use of 4 long rods.

In the past, I have used my P/K BPS 7'6" rods collapsed into the handle and taped to make a 6'r, but it occurs to me this probably isn't doing the rod any favors.. I have looked high and low for suitable rods to buy but have been unable to find something like this.

I have considered purchasing two glass downrigger rods- cutting them off at the handle to shorten them- and then gluing the tip section back into the handle. This might be a possible solution. Another would be to have a custom rod maker fabricate them. Since they are only used on occasion and only for pulling lead core which doesn't require a highly sensitive blank, I would hope they would be relatively inexpensive. We are not talking Loomis blanks here...

If you know where I can purchase a rod like this or have any comments or suggestions- all are appreciated. Thanks, JC.

[REW]

If you want, I can build you a rod - like you are asking for.
email me at hflier@aol.com

Take care
REW

[Dutchman]

The biggest "hang up" with leadcore and most rods is the knot from the leadcore to the leader gets stuck in the rod tip eyelet. I been using Black Widow rods for my lead rigs, I think they're a glass composite....


" Fishing is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope "

[Speedy]

I use Berkely, Reflex casting rods, they are made of E-glass and come in 7, 8 and 9 ft lengths and M, MH, MH actions respectively. I see the length doesn't fit your requirements but the butt would. These rods are suggested retail 27.95, 32.95 and 38.95.

[Jim Carroll]

REW- I sent you an e-mail. Thanks!

[SUPERTROLLER]

I've got two baitcasting style Lightening Rods that I use in a simular fashion. They are 5'6" and 6' rods and have shorter handles, but they work and are stiff enough to handle the loads. They hold my Okuma and Diawa reels in the reelseat. I got mine both on sale but otherwise they're about $40.00. See what REW can do for you. You'll get the exact rod you want but if he can't meet all your needs then these rods are an alternative.