Re: Seeking Advice on Saltwater Spinning Rods

Jim Kuchar (jkuchar@meganet.net)
Sun Mar 15 11:00:10 EST 1998

You may be asking too much for one rod.
For the past two years I used a 10' Shakespear Ugly stick with a 6500ss reel. This was my first shot at saltwater fishing and wanted a rod that did everything. Yes, it did provide adequate service in all applications but had some shortcomings in certain circumstances.
For example I find the action to be too light for drifting chunks and throwing heavy jigs. It's not throwing the bait that's a problem, it's the lack of backbone to bounce a jig off the bottom and through some obstructions.
Anyway, I just purchased a 7500ss reel to gain line wt. and capacity for large stripers. I am looking for a rod that will handle large jigs (2oz. to 4oz) and large chunks that I commonly use in such places as the canal.
I talked to a respectible person at a rod supply store and he recommended a 9' or 10' Penn Power Stick. He said they are improved this year and will have the backbone I require at a decent price. Penn also has the spinfisher that there web site says its for heavy saltwater. The clerk told me it's a good plugging rod but may snap when using big chunks.
I also checked out the 8' and 9' ugly stick. The 8' was nice and heavy but is more for boat fishing. Something I don't do. The 9' had a very soft tip. Something I don't want.
You may go with a custom rod. But it's going to cost you and it may not do all the things you want.
I've done a lot of fishing with the 10' Ugly Stick and it's held up great and has hangled most situations well. It's great for chucking 1 1/4 to 2 1/4 oz plugs from the surf. Anything heavyier than that I find difficult. So if you want a versitile rod the Ugly stick is a pretty good choice.



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