Looking for some guidance on what type of spinning rods are normally used when fishing the Lake Erie tribs in PA for steelhead.

Are 9'6" rods preferred over the longer 10'6" noodle rods? If so, what line rating - 4-8 lb test or 6-8 lb test would work? The rod will need to double as a long distance rod for Western Maryland trout fishing (trout magnets).

Do "Michigan" handles handle long distance casting with lighter lures (1/80 oz - 1/4 oz)?

Thanks

Sandcrab

When you get lure sizes in the 1/80-1/32 range you get diminished returns no matter what you use, Line, reel and rod construction/components only lets you go so far. Try the rodbuilder at this phone number for a great knowledge base and blanks. (304) 322-0055.

Ron,

I have a spinning rod that is 9'6' that I built from an 8 weight fly rod that I use for Erie steelhead. It's OK for this application but I think 10'6" or 11' would be better.

My guess (without much experience of this fishing) though is that a longer rod might be awkward for the MD trout so you might want to compromise and go with 10'.

The butt length on my 9'6' rod is 8'' (11.5" from reel post to end) and it fishes fine.

(BTW rods like this are great for Potomac river shad from the shore in the spring)

David