Sucker Rods
esox50
Posted 11/8/2005 5:06 PM (#164803)
Subject: Sucker Rods





Posts: 2024


I think I may try some sucker fishing this weekend. I have an 8' Shimano TDR that I use for trolling, but my concern is that this rod doesn't have enough backbone to drive the hooks home (or break the rubber band). Anyone use these, or have other suggestions? Thanks.
MuskieMike
Posted 11/8/2005 5:16 PM (#164805 - in reply to #164803)
Subject: RE: Sucker Rods





Location: Des Moines IA
I lost a fish on my trolling rod during the KLY outing. All I can suggest is , if you have a 6'9 heavy or anything close, you can spare, go with it. I saw the fish Tbone the sucker, waited for her to turn away from me, then drilled the hookset only to watch the fish swim away. I would suggest anything, except long flippy trolling rods.I saw this quote, and think it is very appropriate, " I would use a broomstick if I could". Stiffer the better.

Edited by MuskieMike 11/8/2005 5:17 PM
C_Nelson
Posted 11/8/2005 5:46 PM (#164806 - in reply to #164803)
Subject: RE: Sucker Rods





Posts: 578


Location: Sheboygan Falls, WI
Go with the Berkley Lightning Rod, model LSTBC701H. This is a 7' heavy action rod that has a fantastic back bone. This rod will rip the hooks out of the sucker and burry them into the mouth without a problem. I would hate to be the musky. It is actually a saltwater boat rod, but shops that brought them in this fall have either sold out of them or are getting down on inventory. You get one in your hands and you will see why they are doing so well.

I know that Rollie and Helen's still has some in stock and you can always order one and almost have it the next day from them. They also brought in the medium/heavy action for trolling. Retail is anywhere from $45-$49 on these. Hayward Bait in Hayward I believe is sold out and Nelson's Choice in Rhinelander is sold out. Not sure of the other places right off hand. Eagle Sports had some in-stock, but it is sucker time up here so they may already be gone as well.

Hope this helps in your search,

Chuck



Edited by C_Nelson 11/8/2005 5:47 PM
BACKLASH
Posted 11/8/2005 5:54 PM (#164808 - in reply to #164803)
Subject: RE: Sucker Rods




Posts: 172


Esox50

You are correct and you will have problems setting the hooks with an 8 foot TDR. It will flex way too much. The 7 foot TDR heavy works much better.
Steve Jonesi
Posted 11/8/2005 6:18 PM (#164811 - in reply to #164803)
Subject: RE: Sucker Rods




Posts: 2089


The TDR's are waaay too soft for sucker fishin' in my opinion.Kinda like goin to a gunfight with a knife.Best I've used was the 8' Classic Cat from St.Croix, which was discontinued but re-introduced in the Premier Muskie line.$150 cash money homey.One can "get by" much cheaper, but who wants to just "get by".Jump in with both feet! Steve



"That's how I roll"-Cooney
BNelson
Posted 11/8/2005 6:28 PM (#164812 - in reply to #164803)
Subject: RE: Sucker Rods





Location: Contrarian Island
I have some 8 foot cat rods...those are great for sucker rods...fiberglass, beefy, cheap..go on to ebay and look for catfishing rods or see what local dealers have..$30 can get you a killer sucker rod...
esox50
Posted 11/8/2005 7:07 PM (#164816 - in reply to #164803)
Subject: RE: Sucker Rods





Posts: 2024


Thanks, fellas. Excellent advice. Off to Wally World or Dick's to see if either has an inexpensive catfish rod.