Hi I am new to the forum. I'm looking to get some advice on the next set up I should buy. I currently own 2 baitcasting set ups. My favorite one is my 6'9 MH wild black carrot stick paired with a 6:3:1 quatum smoke. I mainly use it for finesse jigging but sometimes will throw a smaller crankbait on it and used jerkbait on it during prespawn. My other rod is a 7' MH veritas with a browning 6:4:1 citori. I use this rod for bigger jigs and deeper water. I don't know if it would be right to buy another MH setup with a 6: ratio reel. I feel like I need to be more versatile. Suggest away people

I would look at a 7:, then I'd look for a medium action and swap setups with your smoke.  That would put your new 7: reel on your MH carrot stick for jigs and your  on 6:3:1 quantum on your new medium action for cranking.  Just a thought. 

I agree cranking is probably the next technique rod you'd want. 7' MH/Mod. I like glass myself. a low ratio 5.x:1 (20 IPT +/-) reel for deep cranking.

^{Delaware nailed it on the low ratio for deep cranking.  My home water maxes out at 12' so I often overlook deep cranking, if you think you'll use bigger lipped baits to go deeper 5: is the way to go.}

Certainly, a cranking rod makes sense, but I would suggest medium moderate action as being a little more sensitive for crank baits. Summertime is here, so deep cranking is in order, but for year round cranking I'd start with a medium. You're also missing a finese rod unless you have spinning gear.

Also the medium moderat action makes a great jerk bait rod

Thanks for the info guys. I didn't think a 7: reel would be good for jig fishing. I fish my jigs anywhere from 1-15ft of water and often work them pretty slow, would a higher gear ratio effect my finesse?

Hi Hayden,

 

I agree with the others assessment.  The rod you are missing is a cranking stick.  The ideal stick would be getting a moderate soft tip rod, however a medium/fast can work too.  Unless you go Veritas, as it fishes stiffer than the rating.  Shimano/Fenwick - all fish closer to the ratings, that I have experience with.  (Own 1 Veritas)

 

The question about a high speed reel for jigging.  It is ideal in my opinion to have a high speed reel for jig and worms..as it can pick up the slack quicker to set the hook.  It shouldn't "affect" your finesse style as you should be using your rod to work the bait.

Speaking of power/action, does anyone have some advice on the KVD medium light/moderate cranking rod?  I need a shallow crank bait setup and I thought maybe this one in the 6'6" - 7' range might work.  I already have a 7' M/M for my deep cranks.  Will this rod work for shallow too?

 

The deep crank is paired with a Lews Speed Spool 5.4 and I was thinking about a Lews Speed Spool 6.4 for the shallow crank rod.

 

The KVD was my first time hearing about a ML/M rod.  Didn't know much about it.

If you are looking for a Crankbait rod, BPS Crankin' Sticks are on sale for $55 right now. Really tough to beat at that price.