Best fishing pole

kawboy · Jul 31, 2010

I think I need a new fishing pole. I have always loved the ugly stick but am willing to change up if there is something better. I want one that is 6' long, light action and will break down into 2 pieces.
Any suggestions?
Also a good reel to go with it?

That John Denver is full of $#!t man

backpacker · Aug 1, 2010

I've always liked St. Croix rods, never failed me yet. Might be kind of biased though since I'm from WI and used to get them from the factory

What kind of fishing are you primarily doing and what's the budget? I usually stick w/ the premier series (around $80-100), the avid series is next (around $180). The legend/legend elites series is next but that's primo dollars ($200+). I splurged once and got an avid rod for walleyes- extremely good rod, very sensitive. They also have a series called the triumph line which is a step below the premier line ($60-80). Picked up a couple of those and used them in June but I'd recommend getting the premier rod if you can swing it.

kawboy · Aug 2, 2010

I do mostly trout fishing, in the stream. I do hit ponds and lakes occasionally. The rod just sits in my car almost year round, I like to have it with me incase I get a chance to sneek away. So I am undecided on budget. I don't want to spend a whole bunch for something that is going to roll around in my car. However if a more expensive rod really is worth that much, I can justify spending up to $100 on one.
Thanks for the info, I will look into st croix

That John Denver is full of $#!t man

sageadvice · Aug 6, 2010

For the money, you just about can't beat an Ugly Stick spinning rod.

Check and see if you can get one off their website or catalog. They put out way more rods than what, the generic ones with the extra fat butt section, you can find at WallyWorld.

For trout, i'm now fishing a pair of 7', 1-6 lb LaCrosse Customs. I picked up the pair of these light weight beauties on E-Bay for $90. and really enjoy them on 2-5 lb trout. I also fish several 40 year old Brown fiberglass Fenwicks that i like a bit too much. They were retired, i should let them be in my collection, my own little place of honor for distinguished service!!

Joey

runamuk · Aug 24, 2010

Always been happy with Fenwicks,, Warranty is second to none also..
You break one send it in with ten bucks for return postage and in about a week you got a new pole..
Penn reels have always treated me well, but now they're made overseas so now they ain't no better than the rest of the Jap-crap.

mntman · Aug 26, 2010

Pflueger are good and they won't thin out your wallet.
I use them and really like their smoothness and durability, rod and reel. Not sure if they make a 2 piece??? they probably do but I always want a one piece.

Mntman

"Hunting is where you prove yourself"

HunterHarry · Sep 3, 2010

All depends on what species, technique and how serious you are.
For drift fishing rivers where you need to feel the bottom, you will have to pry my G Loomis IMX baitcaster from my cold dead fingers.
You couple the ultra sensitive rod with power pro braided line and it feels like your finger is out there touching the bottom of the river.
The super light weight of this rod is unreal, combined with enough backbone, the right stuff will take you to the next level of success.
I use Loomis IMX str1084c rated for 8-12lb line and have no problem landing salmon to 40lbs, given the right water.
The same rod is light enough to play 6-10 lb steelhead without feeling like a meat stick.
I once grabbed a guy's Ugly Stick with mono line just for fun after years of using high end rods, and it felt like it was made of rubber.
Makes a HUGE difference, but like everything else in life the good stuff ain't cheap ($400).

HunterHarry · Sep 3, 2010

LAST EDITED ON Sep-03-10 AT 04:56PM (MST)[p]One other thing is G Loomis's warranty program.
If (when) you break one, you just call them up, give them a description of your rod & they fed ex a new one out to you for about 60 bucks.
I've broken several over the years and have been extremely happy with their service.
HH