How to Choose a Rod

[Dangerfield]

I agree with one of the previous posts, I would go with a 7' Medium Fast Action rod like a HMG or HMX, depends on your budget. These rods come with a terrific warranty. I would also consider a 7' MH Moderate action rod, the mod action may be more forgiving for treble hook baits (moving), I'd stick with the Fenwicks. If budget wasn't an option I would move up to a St. Croix Bass X, Shimano Exage or something along those lines. I hear good things about Berkley Lighting rods, which is a more cost effective option. For reference, my buddy caught a 40" Pike (20lber) on a HMG (2018 model) paired with a 2500 Shimano Stradic.

No one mentioned reels, if you prefer spinning tackle, you don't really have any options in when it comes to IPT. Generally all spinning gear ratios are from 4.9-6.0.1. Now if you can spend the time to learn how to use a bait-caster, or if you already know, I would reco a 6.3.1 or 7.3.1 reel to cover the spectrum. I have a 8.1.1 Daiwa Fuego I got off Cabela's that's paired with a Heavy X fast rod which I use for pitching/jigs/swimbait/frog. The retrieval speed is critical for jig and frog fishing but will ruin the action on a hard-body swim-bait as it's too fast. I just slow my retrieve down to a crawl for these techniques. Hope that helps.