I think a lot of the problem just might be my timing in setting the hook. I went out today, and of the numerous 'hits' on my line, I only caught one bluegill and had another huge beast take my hook, and run with it before the line snapped (hearing that drag let out and seeing the rod bend over was exciting as all get our!).

Get some 1/32 or 1/16th ounce jigs instead. I catch thousands of panfish every year on those two jig sizes and 2.5 inch gulp minnows. If you are missing alot of bluegills they are probably the smaller ones nipping at it. You have to get lucky to hook the smaller ones with that setup, they usually require even smaller hooks and baits. The 2.5 inch gulp should catch plenty of crappie, bigger gills, and the occasional bass though. 

I agree with Squarebill79 get smaller hooks

I also have a 5' UL Ugly Stick and use 1"gulp minnows but use 1/124,1/80,1/64 jig heads. 1/80 pictured uses #10 size hook

When pan fishing I use a cheap 5'6" UL uggo stick *25th anniversary edition(it matters ??) paired to a 20 year old penn and usually fish for them with small jig heads and grubs with my nephews while they bobber fish and hooking up has never been an issue. Usually they hit quick so it could be timing, or perhaps your using too large of a hook/jig/bait. They have very small mouths usually a 1/4-1/8th jighead sometimes smaller depending on water flow that day with a grub and I usually can fill a stringer fast. 4 pound mono always on that set up.

Although Im sure there are more effictive ways to fish them, there is a small inland lake near me known for crappie fishing and years ago an older fisherman showed me the white and chartreuse grub jig combo and I have slapped the lake every time I have attempted.

Fulcrums? Archimedes?  Here's an idea...do you think it's fun to use that rod and have you successfully caught fish with it?  Then have fun and catch some fish!

 

On 5/26/2019 at 9:30 PM, JBT1981 said:

So it seems that (at least after a quick Google search anyway) that most people prefer a 6'+ fishing rod, I have to wonder what uses there are for a 5' UL rod? Ice fishing? 

Shorter UL rods are great for stream trout.  I have a 4'6" and 5' I use when backpacking.  The shorter length makes them very accurate plus they're much easier to navigate the undergrowth with.