Wanting Your Opinion--Power and Tip Action??? DropShot/Finesse/Crappie Rod

[woody]

I am looking for advice on which power/tip-action would be best suited for my first drop-shot/finesse rod for bass and crappie. This rod will also be used in catching bream.

I'm not necessarily looking for names of rod manufacturers, just advice on power and tip action.

One thing I do know is that I'm looking for a 7' spinning rod. Thanks in advance.


-Mark

[BigBassin144]

Mark, for most dropshotting, I like a 7' ML F spinning rod, and that is likely going to be one of my next rods. Since you'll be bluegill and crappie fishing, I think the ML will be a good choice. The standard Fast action is also a good choice.

I use my 7' M XF for heavier weights (1/4-1/2oz), where the ML would be for my normal 1/8-3/16. I do prefer a F action over an XF because sometimes, the softer tip helps you detect light DS bites.

I know you didn't really want brand suggestions, but I've gotta say the Shimano Crucial dropshot rods are great rods for the price, and the rod I use.

BB

[bassboogieman]

I agree with BB144 that for crappie and bream the ML/fast in 7' or 7'6" (I'd like the longer rod) would be the ticket I don't think I'd use the same rod for bass. I'd want a M/fast 7' rod when moving up to heavier fish with heavier baits. ONE rod for both - forces a compromise (IMO), so I'd go to a 7'6' M/fast. I don't think it would be the "perfect" rod for either application, but the best suitable for double duty.
No brand names, but for this application, I'd want a very sensitive rod - good graphite blank, soft tip (fast, I'm not a fan of XF), with superior guides, and a split handle to reduce weight. Don't forget a good reel - personally I lean towards magnesium framed spinning reels, again to reduce weight.

[woody]

Thanks Anthony, the ML rod is a rod that I am still lacking, and think would also make for a great crappie and 'gill rod.

And Boogie, that's some good advice. At first I'll experiment with using the lighter rod, and then go from there. By nature I am more of a power fisherman, so dropshotting and finessing for bass would be last on my list of techniques.

From what I heard this past Spring, after ice-out, is that I missed out on a very good crappie bite. Due to my -single species attitude- I was all about going after the lunkers and missed out on a good opportunity to stock up the freezer. I hope to be better prepared and a little bit more open minded this year. Thanks for your input.


-Mark

[BigBassin144]

bassboogieman is definitely right about a good reel. A very important part of taking on bass with a L or ML DS rod and light 6lb line is to have a spinning reel with a good drag. It doesn't need to be overly powerful, but it does need to be very smooth. The drag sticks once on a nice fish, your line is probably gonna break.

I kind of mentioned this earlier, but I'll cover it a bit more now. If you'll be fishing heavier dropshot weights (1/4+) then I'd probably go with a M power like bassboogie suggested. But if you'll be using 1/8-3/16oz like I normally do, I find a M power a bit stiff. It's too easy to move that light weight. Also, if you'll be fishing anything else on it (Besides the crappie and bluegill) like shaky head, wacky rig, etc., I'd also move up to a M then.

BB

[bigbasser]

P/M sent. bigbasser