Rod Recommendation

[BradH]

Originally Posted by Baldy

I recently received some Cabelas gift certificates and was considering using them for a new creature/backup bucktail rod. The certificates dont amount to much so i wanted to keep the price down. I am comtemplating between a Berkeley Steelhead Rod or a Cabelas Fish Eagle II Musky rod.

The Berkeley rod is 7'9" H, rated for 15-50 lb line, and 1/4-4 oz lure...$60

The Cabelas rod is 7'6" H, rated for 15-30 lb line, and 3/4-2.5 oz lure...$80

I am leaning towards the Berkeley due to the added length and the fact that the sensitivity is probably a little better, but I am concerned about how well a steelhead rod will hold up to a muskie. I have seen steelhead rods used for large pike fishing

I am interested in some opinions on these two choices. Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

I use that exact Fish Eagle II Musky rod. It works well with bucktails, large swim jigs and spinnerbaits. I have used it for cranks as well, just stay within the weight range. If you can hold out those go on sale for around $35 to $40 quite often.