Need opinions on a 7 7 1/2' light moderate/fast blank for serious Gill fisherman castng bobber/live bait that won't break the bank! Considering a fly rod blank if their are any that are fast enough for that type of fishing.

Mike



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/26/2005 08:51PM by Mike Barkley.

I just finnished a 9' forecast 3# for a guy that uses it for crappies and loves it. I'm also building another for my brother inlaw that is a 7'8" forecast 3# 2 piece. for gills. I think it is going to be awsome.

Travis,
What's the action like on the 7'8"?? How would it do with a slip bobber? Don't want it too whippy

Mike

How about the Tigereye GS 76 2L blanks that Neal carries? About one of the only light 7 ft 6 in blanks I know of that's in the lower end of the price scale.

Mike, I just finished a rod just for that purpose.

RX7 Popping Rod Blanks (Matte Clear Finish)
IP842 7'0" 1pc 6-12lb test MOD/FAST MED-LT $38.07 (Custom Tackle Supply)

Was afraid it'd be a little to heavy when I ordered it but I think it's going to be just fine.

way to whippy for bobbers!!! They cast very small jigs a good distance and dont tear the soft mouths of the crappies. Can also be used like a noodling rod.

Mr. Mike,
Not sure what the limit is, but for me, it's pretty tough to beat a St. Croix SCII. Personally I like 6' blanks, but for a 7' a 2S70MLF or ULF. The ULF would be better for strictly crappie and gills, but I like MLFs because in your stomping grounds, you have a good chance of hooking into a walleye or a northern when crappie fishing. You can pick them up for around 40 bucks.

Outside of that, my really cheap favorite is a forecast SP780. I just ordered a couple more from Neal just for crappie.

Hi Mick,

These are a couple rods intended for Gills/crappies in Rice lake (Canada) and Perch in Lake Simco (Canada) St Croix is one of my favorites and one that is being considered!

Mike

The St Croix has nice 7' 2 PC fast and moderate UL's.

Mike,

I have built a couple of IP 840's from Batson and the old Cascade's from Mud Hole. These are about as ultra lite as they get for less than $30.

Ed

Thanks for all the suggestions, guys! The St Croix are looking pretty good but so are the rest!!

Mike

Mike, please let me know what blank you ultimately decide on for the crappie rod. I have a guy wanting one as well. But I believe he wants to throw jigs. I could use suggestions on blank choice.