Hello,

I am looking to build a rod for walking the shorelines of some reseviors I fish that do not allow wading. This is basically a hike in situation. Cost is not a concern. Balancing casting distance with versatility is my main concern. I am thinking 7'6" to 8' with shorter rear grip (7"). Fish species vary with the season, salmonoids in cool seasons, bass and pike when its warm. The blank has to be able to fish jigs in the 1/8 and 1/4 ounce sizes, throw a small chug bug popper, and cast spoons or swimming plugs. Two piece is a must.

I am open to design suggestions. I only fish with mono (6-8 lb) and usually use a 2500-3000 size daiwa reel. Blanks I am thinking about include popping blanks and the sj9000. Any hidden gems I should think about?

Thanks,

Tim

I just built a Pac Bay Rainforest 2 blank, med - light 8'6" as my reservoir rod, In my opinion it's forgiving enough for 6lb line and lighter lures. The place I fish holds trophy brown trout and the distance helps to get out deep, but I've been considering stepping up to a 9' casting rod and building a 7'6" xtra lite for versatility while fishing closer to the shoreline.

-Geoff

Another option is the St. Croix 5S76MLXF2-G, love my 1 piece version. Fantastic, light tipped finesse rod with more backbone than many 2 power rods have. Throwing the lower weight jigs, small spoons, spinners or plugs will be no problem. Never tried poppers with the rod. Have caught small and largemouth bass, pan fish, trout to 24 inches, and steelhead on this rod.