Hello,

 

I am looking into buying a travel rod to take with me on business trips to see if I can get in a little fishing here and there.  I've noticed multi-piece casting and spinning options in various brands.  Any opinions on which type I should look into?  Also, specific recommendations would be fine too.  I'm looking to keep it under or around the $100 range since I don't think I'll use it very often I and already bought 4 new reels and 3 new rods this winter.

 

Thanks,

T

I fished both 2 piece casting and spinning rods not much different except for the obvious.

Questions you have to ask yourself is what are you more proficient at, what will be more versatile for you and which do you prefer.

IMHO if your looking to keep the cost down. Spinning when you factor in the cost of a decent reel.

Assuming you will be fishing from shore, I would highly recommend a spinning outfit. Reasons why:

 

1. When fishing from shore, you could be standing and fishing anywhere, meaning in trees, bushes, etc. This can make for some close quarters for you to cast from and a spinning outfit will give you much more freedom to cast with. **Plus you won't have to worry about backlashes when you snag a limb on your back cast and swing forward just to have all the line on the spool tangle.**

          -For these reasons I would choose either a 6'6" or a 7' I wouldn't go any higher, and the 6'6" is probably best.

 

2. Spinning rods can cast lighter lures better, so if the bass aren't biting but the bluegill, crappies, etc, are the spinning rod will help you cast lighter lures and you will probably enjoy the fight more with smaller fish.

          -So I would choose a Medium power fast action rod. It is not too light for bass fishing and not too heavy for other species.

 

3. Unfortunately line twist is something you have to factor in while using spinning reels. But it can be reduced greatly by your line choice. I hear the Sufix Elite/Seige mono is spooled a certain way to eliminate/reduce line memory which would help. A light braided line would help as well too. Either way, spraying a line conditioner before you go on the trip would help greatly.

          - My suggestion would be a light braided line anywhere from 10lb to 20lb depending on your preference. ( because braid has no memory and is limp a lighter line may cause tangles/problems if you haven't tried it yet.)  Also having no stretch will help drive hooks home if you decide to use a jig or other lure where a good hookset is needed. You can always keep a bit of flouro in the tackle box if you feel you need a leader.

 

This would be my build, and probably will be my build since I am planning to get a two-piece rod for the car before summer starts.

 

6'6" Spinning

Medium power Fast action

15lb PowerPro

X2 on the above. Braid will also last much longer and won't deteriorate over time when it's not being used.

Will saltwater also enter into the equation?  If so that's another reason to go with spinning, at least as far as I'm concerned.

I fished both 2 piece casting and spinning rods not much different except for the obvious.

Questions you have to ask yourself is what are you more proficient at, what will be more versatile for you and which do you prefer.

IMHO if your looking to keep the cost down. Spinning when you factor in the cost of a decent reel.

 

This will be my first full season back with a rod in hand (been over 20 years).  I took the time to learn to use a baitcaster in the fall and early winter.  I would say that I am getting reacquainted with the spinner and learning the baitcaster.  So no real preference at this point.

 

I'm thinking of just taking a reel off of one of my other setups when I travel so I really was not considering buying another reel at this point.  Would it be a big hassle to take that approach?  Should I be considering another reel for this setup?

 

Assuming you will be fishing from shore, I would highly recommend a spinning outfit. Reasons why:

 

 

 

Yes, sorry.  I will be bank fishing in these spots.  

 

Will saltwater also enter into the equation?  If so that's another reason to go with spinning, at least as far as I'm concerned.

 

No, the only plan is for freshwater in Europe, Canada, and the US.

 

I would with a Spinning to keep the cost down.  My opinion it would be more of an all around utility rod

Are you looking for a complete combo with a case/bag or buying each piece separate?

Ron.

 

Yes, I am looking for an all around utility rod that will only get minimal use.  For example, my trip to Europe in the next few weeks if I get in 2 hours of fishing, I'll be happy.  That is why I'm looking to keep costs down and also if the rod is broken (in luggage) or stolen, I won't be too upset.  

As far as a case/bag, I was just planning on putting the rod and reel in my luggage along with a small tackle box.  No plan on which pieces or brands to buy yet but I need something in the next 5-days.

 

 

Thanks for all the responses and help.

 

-T

I would also say a spinning might be your best bet. I say that mostly because the best way I think to find out what is in a pond is using small baits. You also have the option of being able to toss small stuff that can catch bluegill and sunfish.

I keep a 6'6 med 2pc spinning rod in my truck at all times. Just incase I find water I didn't know about or I wanna go for an hour after work.