I have had a few requests to build some short 5'9" vertical jigging rods for - walleye jigging. The request is also for an extra extra fast tip. The rods will typically be used for 1/8th - 1/4 oz jigs.

I had a few blanks in mind - but at the last minute, I am having some 2nd thoughts.

If anyone has some excellent suggestions, I will certainly listen.

The part of the equation that gives one pause, is the requirement that is being placed on the tip action of this rod.

Thanks for any help.

Roger

My first thoughts are St Croix 3S59MXF and 4S510MXF. If the tip power is a little heavy on those, a 3S63MLXF could be cut down. For me personally, the tip is a little light on the MLXF for 1/4 oz, but that is personal preference as that rod has plenty of butt strength to get the job done.

It would matter to me if the vertical jigging was in a moving boat on a river or if it was from a stationary boat on a lake. In the river I like the stiffer tip so there is no lag time when I lift and the jig reacts immediately, I think I snag less. On a lake a lighter tip would probably be better as a strike indicator and to avoid letting the fish know you are there.

Rainshadow RX7 ISB and ISJ blanks are some of the faster blanks I have used in their price range. Cutting the butt off of an ISB721 would be an option.

I use a ISB781 for vertical jigging 1/4 and 3/8 oz jigs in rivers, I would think it would work well for 1/8 oz as well. I like a the longer blank to work around the trolling motor while fishing off the bow.

I did cut down a ISB721 for my 10 year old to 5'6" and it made a pretty nice little rod.

I agree with Jeff. I use a 4S63MXF and an ISJ781 cut to 6'. The ISB721 would be a good option. The RX7 ISBs have pretty fast tips.I like a medium power because I use a lot of Fireball type jigs and it helps getting a good hook up.

Roger take a look at the batson IC721 cut down would work well

Bill@midwestrodandreel.com
www.midwestrodandreel.com

All,
Thanks for all of the comments.
Between these as well as other comments, I believe that I have the right blank to build the rod.

Thanks again.
Roger