Posted by:
Tom Locke
(---.bstnma.fios.verizon.net)
Topwater for tuna is a very specific application and a specific rod type is needed to do it correctly. The rod needs to have a soft tip to throw the lighter lures sometimes necessary to get a bite. Think 1 ounce. Then the rod needs to have the backbone to be able to handle the exuberant fight tuna give. Additionally, the action should be moderate to give the angler a chance in the long, drawn out fight with tuna.
Examples of blanks that fit these requirements; Black Hole Cape Cod Special, Saltywatertackle Race Point Special, United Composites Sidewinder, Spinal Popping, OTI popping, Temple Reef Black Devil.
Other rod types may be able to cast the lures, but the fight will hurt. Or the fight will be just ok, but you won't have the backbone or casting. A fast action, soft tipped blank like Phenix, Seeker or Calstar is not what you want.
