Advice on a good walleye rod

[walleyesummit]

I almost didn't reply to this as there are more questions than answers, but I will give it a shot.

Jigging rods are very personal and it truley comes down to what feels good in your hand. You have the right idea about trying different brands, as there are several manufatuers who make great rods. One of the coolest things about the fishing rod market right now is the quality you can get at a resonable price. That never was the case even 5 years ago. Walleye angler rods form BP are a great example, low cost but great rods.

Personally if I am verticle jigging I use a short 5'9" medium light rod with an extra fast action. I choose ML because I use fireline and the rod compenates for the lower stretch in the line. I move to a medium rod if the jigs are greater than 3/4 of an oz.
If I am pitching jigs I go with a 6'6" rod in ML but with a fast action. the slower action lets me get a little more on the jig when I am piching 1/32 of an oz. it also is more forgiving around the boat.

The comment about balancing the rod is right on the money. I use what most people would consider ultra light reels on my rods and they get it just about perfect.

To illustrate just how personal this is I know several big name walleye pros who cut about 6" off the handle off their jig rods. Seems crazy to cut up a $250 rod, but that is the only way to get the feel they like.

Shawn

[Tip-up]

The Crucial and Compre seem like great walleye sticks. Can't wait to give them both a go this spring. I like my jigging rods more on the shorter side as well

[Dan Smyth]

I use a Fenwick HMX 6' one piece and a Quantum PTI reel. I like the balance, combo is super light for all day fishing and extremely sensitive.

I think the best advice is to go to a outlet that sells a variety of rods and reels talk to the staff, put combinations together to get the feel and then buy what feels right to you.
If you are not in the market for a new reel then take the reel you will be using with you and stick it on a bunch of rods in the price range you want.

At 100 to 150 dollars I don't think you will get a bad one just get the one that feels right to you.

Men can have fun shopping too!!!

[plowjock]

I have a saying when dealing with customers.
It's better to spend Good Money once than Foolish Money three times. Your higher priced rods are also your Lightest and you will enjoy working (Fishing) with them ALL DAY.
Generally best to stay in the 6'-6'6" Medum light to feel those real subtle suck in and blow out at you bites.
You wanna feel that fish fart when he picks up your bait.

[Dances With Fishes]

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I guess my next step is to head out shopping and testing. Hopfully I'll have decided what I'm looking for by the time the Carp show comes around. Then I have a great excuse to shop the show for deals.

Cheers
DWF