Need some input. I'm building a rod for a big fish award in a Kayak fishing tournament. It's an open tourn with various species eligible. The area holds everything from panfish to walleye, musky, etc. Since it's a tournament prize, I can't consult the user. I'm going with a 7' AmTac 3 pc rod. Am I correct in assuming that a shorter than normal rear grip would be better to avoid getting caught in clothing because of the close quarters ?? I'm planning on a split grip

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Most all the kayak guys I build for want a shorter than normal handle.



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Better to have and not need than to need and not have.

Yep short handle and longer than usual rod.

DR

I build the rod as usual for the technique involved, but add kayak specific features such as a leash attachment point and an internal rescue device.

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Tom - can you share what you use for a leash attachment point? I'm getting ready to build a kayak rod or two, and I've been trying to think of a good leash attachment mechanism.

We covered "soft leach attachment points" in a recent issue of the magazine. You want something that isn't in the way nor obtrusive while you're actually fishing, but it still has to do the job. This is best done with loops of nylon, either wound to the rod or mounted under a grip, with the loop protruding. The beauty of the nylon is that it's soft so it folds flat and doesn't interfere with rod handling nor snag on anything while fishing.

You can see photos of this and various ways to install them in the Volume 13 #3 issue of the magazine.

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another reason to beat myself up for letting my subscription lapse for awhile!! Thanks - you gave me some good ideas... I may have to pick up that back issue...

Sorry Mike, never fished for Kayaks before so I can be of no help.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

I do like Tom and build them as normal for the technique I plan to use it for. To me every rod is build with the handle at a comfortable length for the technique.

With that being said, alot of other kayak guys seem to like the shorter handles.

In a Kayak while the technique is the same ie: top water, jerk baits, twitch baits etc..... performing them from a sitting position with the rod up is accomplished differently. This is generally where you find the need for shorter rear grips and occasionally a longer blank.

Todd

Regards,
Todd Vivian
Mud Hole Custom Tackle

todd@mudhole.com

This is not the answer to your question, but might be interesting even though this one is for saltwater kayak fishing.

Greg

[www.rodbuilding.org]