new rod selection

[OldTimer]

(01-25-2015 03:04 PM)MuskieBait Wrote:  For most applications, a long UL rod is not convenient. 10-12 foot range is way too long...and even with 8 foot long ultralight, it would be a handful sometimes.

Most of the time when you do need an ultralight, you are fishing for smaller species that hangs out near the margin of the water, under overhanging branches, among submerged branches or around rocks. You may think that the added length will give you better reach, but usually, these area you fish will also have a lot of obstacles behind, beside and over you, making a long rod very difficult to use. It's almost always better to actually hike closer to the spot you intend to fish and drop the bait much closer.

Honestly, I love my Daiwa Spinmatic UL and don't see a need to spend more money on an expensive UL rod...but opinions may vary.

Yes - I'd have to agree with these comments.

The ultra light rod that I actually use is a budget priced 4'6" one piece composite Berkley "Cherrywood" with a small inexpensive UL Shimano "Sienna" spinning reel. Just great for flipping #0 Mepps.

The custom 9' hand built UL rod I made 30 years ago has seen use less than a few dozen times. Looks great - but a pain in the butt on a creek, or going through the brush. I will admit though - that it is fun if used to catch wow size Carp in "wide open" spaces.

Cheers,

OldTimer