Posts: 2,044
Threads: 5
Joined: Nov 2005
Reputation:
0
The reel part is easy: Shimano Calcutta 200 series. For rods, I use 5 1/2-6 foot rods matched to the weight of the jig's I'm using. (NOT matched to the size of fish. Rods are matched to lures. Many rods will turn a fish.) The rod should be stiff enough to hold and present the jig you use, have enough "backbone" to allow a quick hook set, yet be flexible enough for the tip to move when you get a very light bite and provide some shock absorbtion when fighting a fish. Something in between a "stick" and a "noodle."
Like that explanation answers your question!!! LOL. Its just a feel thing. It can't be described in words or with numbers. In general, look for line ratings of about 8-20 lb. test.
Just a note: the terms "light," "medium-heavy", "medium", and all those are MEANINGLESS. This is because rod "action" varies widely between all the different types of graphite and manufacturer's labels. Even among rods by the same manufacturer, different models will have different actions, though they're all labled "meduim." They all perform differently based on the manufacturing process, eye placement, grip placement, etc. There are no two "6-foot medium-heavy" rods that have the same feel or action.
[signature]
Posts: 1,905
Threads: 50
Joined: Oct 2003
Reputation:
10
If you don't want to sell off your left gonad for a reel, try an Abu Garcia 5600 series. They are very good reels for the money and have a great drag. The lower the retrieve ratio the better. I have a 4:1 and 5.1:1. You don't need speed retrieves (i.e. 6:3:1 ratios) when jigging. For rods I really, really like the Bass Pro Tourney Special rods. In my opinion they are excellent buys for the money. I like a longer rod than TJ. I like the 7'0" or 6'6" med/hvy action. There are so many combinations that no two people are going to agree, but at least this gives you a good place to start.
[signature]
Posts: 2,284
Threads: 0
Joined: Aug 2006
Reputation:
0
First you got to go to the Gorge to get one.. hehehe Dude are you just looking for and excuse to buy a new rod?
Ok now the funnin is over when jigging through the ice how big a jig will you go on the Gorge or B.L. for that matter?
Majja
[signature]
Posts: 2,284
Threads: 0
Joined: Aug 2006
Reputation:
0
Yea that is what most of us guys with small jigs say so that we can sleep at night.
[signature]
Posts: 2,084
Threads: 15
Joined: Nov 2002
Reputation:
0
I built 4 rods this last year and all were for vertical jigging for lake trout. they all were between 5.6 to 5.10 and all have a spiral guide wrap. they were fast tip, med. action, casting rods. I like these shorter rods, easier to handle and I think a quicker hook set.
later chuck
[signature]
Posts: 716
Threads: 9
Joined: Jul 2006
Reputation:
0
Thank you all for your input. I'm surprised at the shorter length of the rods you guys prefer. Definitely food for thought if I decide to build my own!
[signature]
vantage in fighting the beast? What rod and reel combos are you guys using? Length/action/casting/spinning...?
]