I have a cabin on a lake in northern VT. My lake has some huge pike in it, but we rarely see them. We typically catch small or medium size pike. I'd love to put together an inexpensive pike rod to leave up there.

I don't want to spend a ton on it in case someone else breaks it. I have a big family and let them all use the place and the tackle up there is community gear. Nothing belongs to anyone in particular. I'd like to spend under $50 on components, but want a decent rod.

Last time I caught a pike up there I was using a $3.50 walmart special kids spincast rod and was just playing around with the kids not really expecting to catch anything. The thing went under the boat and nearly took me and the rod with it before the line broke. That's when I decided I need to get a more specialized rod.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jackie

A

MI Builder



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/21/2005 08:48AM by James Gentz.

Jackie,
I grew up fishing for pike in MN. More than any other freshwater fish, I don't think it's possible to build a specialty pike rod. I've caught 1 lb. hammer handles on 8 inch long daredevils on musky rods and 25 lb torpedos on 1/2 inch swedish pimples using ultralight bluegill rigs, and they both hit with equal force.

As you most likely know, sensitivity isn't an issue with pike. They aren't exactly subtle. I'd go with something strong but still fun. There are a lot of S and E glass blanks for little cash as well as some good graphites. Anything with around a 15 lb line rating should cover just about any pike. Check some sales. Some hialoys, basic reel seat and your choice of EVA or cork, and you can make an excellent all around pike rod for 50 bucks, especially if it's a "camp rod". Just give it some oomph in case you get one of the big bruisers!

MudHole has some Rainshadow musky blanks on clearance for about $35. Great rods for the price. I haven't built mine yet......still waiting for some cork.

Thanks for the input! I'll see if Neal's has anything for closeouts on musky or hefty Eglass rods (I think they do) and see if maybe I can't put together a couple of rods for the $50.

~Jackie

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