I am not big on spending a ton of money for the top dollar rod and reels. But I often wonder if I'm missing out, and not feeling soft bites based on the rod im using. I'm debating on giving in and trying out one of the G-Loomis Shakey heads rods since I throw that bait often. I'm not concerned about fighting the fish more about the sensitivity of the rod. Has anyone made a similar change like this, and if so what did you think?

As of now im throwing a 7ft med action BPS Carbonlite with a Shimano Sahara on 8lb flr. carbon and seem to be doing fine. But once again I'm always wondering if I'm missing out...

I guess the main question would be, is there really a big difference in a BPS carbonlite rod or any rod in that price range compared to a G-Loomis rod. I'm sure there is but what are the facts supporting it?

I have a 7'M Carbonlite paired with Johnny Morris Elite spinning reel 10# BPS Fluorocarbon and LOVE this combo. I gauge my $$ spending on rod/reel combos based on my use of a specific technique. I seldom start with this technique unless it's very hot, cold, or nothing else has worked. 

I am not big on spending a ton of money for the top dollar rod and reels. But I often wonder if I'm missing out, and not feeling soft bites based on the rod im using. I'm debating on giving in and trying out one of the G-Loomis Shakey heads rods since I throw that bait often. I'm not concerned about fighting the fish more about the sensitivity of the rod. Has anyone made a similar change like this, and if so what did you think?

As of now im throwing a 7ft med action BPS Carbonlite with a Shimano Sahara on 8lb flr. carbon and seem to be doing fine. But once again I'm always wondering if I'm missing out...

I guess the main question would be, is there really a big difference in a BPS carbonlite rod or any rod in that price range compared to a G-Loomis rod. I'm sure there is but what are the facts supporting it?

I thought this post was going to be just a post asking what is a good shakey head rod, well anyway you hit it right on!  With a Stradic or something, reel isn't the biggest deal.

I have the G Loomis Shakyhead GLX 822S and it is an unbelievable rod.  I have tried several rods for Shakyhead fishing (even other G Loomis Rods) and this rods really shines above the rest in terms of sensitivity, action (the action of these rods really allow you to fling out those light jigheads), and power (this rod has some good backbone).  Really good rod and if I were you, I would shop around and see if you could get a deal on one.  Good luck in your search.

I use the Loomis GLX SHR822S. I bought the regular SHR822S first and wasn't overly impressed with it. It was a good rod but the GLX is more sensitive. Heck, I'll even use mine to skip small jigs under docks every now and then. It loads well and skips small stuff no problem, then it's got plenty of backbone to bury the hook. In my opinion, it's the mac daddy shakyhead rod, hands down, no contest.

I throw the shakey head ALOT and have 3 different rods I'll use:

In open water, I use the St Croix LTB Split shot rod (6'6" ML). When skipping the jig beneath docks, I use a St Croix Legend Elite 6' medium. For heavier jigheads in deeper water, the Legend Elite 6'8" medium XF. All three are super sensitive for the light bites.

Having said that, you don't have to spend $200+ (I'm not a tackle snob -- I was lucky enough to get those 3 rods at 40% of retail price when I worked in a tackle store.) But sensitivity is a MUST. a Shimano Crucial would do the job for less than $150, and my fishing partner uses a St Croix Mojo and doesn't miss many bites. So expensive is optional, but sensitive is mandatory, in my opinion.

    Ill suggest you work on feeling the bait. You really dont need a special, or expensive rod. Just like with a drop shot, or worm fishing, or dart heading. It is really most important to be "in touch" with your bait. Concentrate, and develop a feel, when it feels different, set. That is feeling the bite. The elite guys, thats what makes em elite. They always preach it and tell us, but most folks dont understand it. Learn what it feels like when ya bump a rock, grass, or wood, soon you will be catching more fish.

I throw the shakey head ALOT and have 3 different rods I'll use:

In open water, I use the St Croix LTB Split shot rod (6'6" ML). When skipping the jig beneath docks, I use a St Croix Legend Elite 6' medium. For heavier jigheads in deeper water, the Legend Elite 6'8" medium XF. All three are super sensitive for the light bites.

Having said that, you don't have to spend $200+ (I'm not a tackle snob -- I was lucky enough to get those 3 rods at 40% of retail price when I worked in a tackle store.) But sensitivity is a MUST. a Shimano Crucial would do the job for less than $150, and my fishing partner uses a St Croix Mojo and doesn't miss many bites. So expensive is optional, but sensitive is mandatory, in my opinion.

The 6' 8" medium St. Croix Mojo is also my rod of choice for shakey head fishing and I don't miss any more bites than anyone else with it. I've got it paired with a 2500 Shimano Symetre with 8lb Stren original. It's a great combo for less than what you'd spend on a GLX rod by itself. That leaves lots of money left over to buy shakey heads and the baits you'll be fishing on them ;D.

7'2" M XFast Crucial Drop Shot/Shaky Head rod.  Fantastic stick.