I am starting to realize through previous questions and research that I will need more than just one rod for bass fishing. For worms and jigs, I am pretty sure I am going to get a 7′ MH Fast Action Graphite Baitcasting Rod with a 6.2:1 (at least) Gear Ratio Baitcasting Reel, unless of course that is all wrong. I’ll let the experts be the judge of that. For Spinnerbaits and Crankbaits, I have been reading that fiberglass is prefered. Is this still the case? Can one rod effectively double as a spinnerbait and crankbait rod, or will I need to suck it up and get 3 rods? Be honest here, please. I know that certain rods are more ideal for certain baits and lures, but being a casual fisherman with 2 kids and woman that loves to spend spend spend, I would like it to double, if possible.

Chosen Answer:

Fiberglass is preferred for “the Pro”.

“Dedicated anglers” who spend a majority of their time deep Crankin’ lures that reach 12 PLUS FT depths would benefit from having a Glass rod, (such as one of these- http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_44474____SearchResults ), but if you rarely fish that deep (or use deep-diving Cranks constantly), purchasing a rod that “specialized” would be a waste of money. If your strapped for cash, maybe think about upgrading to that next year, or in the near future?

You will get a wide range of opinions on what 2 rods to purchase on any website.(A friend told me once- “Opinions are like @ss-holes- everyone has them! lol)

Here’s my 2 cents:

A GOOD 7′ MH rod with , (at least) a 6:2:1 ratio baitcasting reel is a great start. You will be able to do a variety of techniques with this outfit like Jigging, Spinnerbaits, larger Soft Plastics, Flippin, Carolina Rig, Froggin’, Etc.

Add a 7′ M action Spinning outfit and you’ve got most of your bases covered.

Here are a few baitcasting rods and reels with great feedback you may want to consider. Go to Bass Pro Shops or Cabelas.com to see reviews-

Baitcasting reels??

1. Shimano, Citica E

2. Daiwa, Exceler (sold at Cabelas)

3. David Fritts model ( A “sleeper” reel with great feedback. I own a couple and they are solid reels. Unfortunately, BPS decided to discontinue them. You can occasionally find them on EBay for -. They originally sold for 0. Do a search on EBay for “david fritts reel” to view the reel.)

4. Pflueger, Asaro (Another “sleeper” reel with great feedback. I own a couple of these. Really NICE reels! Two years ago BPS originally sold these for 9. I got mine (brand new) for . EBay is awesome at times….lol).

5. Pinnacle, Alyssa XLT (Another solid “sleeper” reel. If your looking for a good reel and aren’t hung up on “brand names”, this is a fantastic purchase. Make sure to ONLY get the XLT model!)

Here’s a tip- If you buy “used” reels from reputable dealers on EBay, you can get INSANE pricing for high-end, brand name, reels ! Do you have any idea how many people try baitcasting and decide to go back to Spinning equipment or golf? (wink) I’ve probably saved over 00 a YEAR buying older lures and reels from EBay……

Realize that almost every year, (and certainly every other year) major reel company’s come out with their “new line” of products . And like cars, the distributors have to “get rid” of the older model to make way for the new……..

A discontinued reel is not a “bad” reel it’s just a reel that needs to make way for a new product……(I’m sure you get the picture).

Rods are another story- A beat up rod on EBay is STILL a beat-up rod. Best to buy rods new, (if you can).

RODS??

1. Shimano, Convergence

2. Cabelas, MagTouch casting rod

3. Berkley, Shock Series Lightning rod

4. Cabelas, Prodigy casting rod (currently on sale! Was 0 now !)

Any of these would be excellent! When searching for rods make sure to read all feedback available.

Spinning outfit’s????

You can easily get a quality 7′ Medium action Spinning combo below 0. Here’s some rods and reels to check out:

REELS?

1. Pflueger, President- Best “bang for your buck” reel you can purchase. At you won’t find a more durable, quality, buy (period). You would want the 6735 size.

RODS???

1. Cabelas, Gold Label Spinning rods are currently on sale for . Order a 7′ M !!!!!!! The warranty system at Cabelas is second to none- if it breaks or has issues they will replace it for free.

Hope this info helps ya?