Plugging for Stripers, what rod? (modified)

[tabasco_joe]

I had to follow Pauls plug thread with some questions on rods (and reels) for surf plugging?  (There may be a similar thread elsewhere on the site which I couldn't find with a quick search.  If so just give a pointer to it.)

What rod lengths, weight ranges, reel types, are people finding work well for throwing plugs to stripers?  Any specific brand recommendations?

[robsrodnreel]

ive been throwing an 8 ft tica with a 4500 bait runner on it. the rod is nice and light, but does have problems with the cork tape handle loosening (mine hasnt yet but ive seen others get pretty bad quickly). the reel is a bit heavy for this, but i also use this rod to throw eels from the surf hence the baitrunner.  once i get some time ill build myself a nice plugging rod, but until then this is my set up

[Capt. Ed]

Hi All,

I use a Van Staal, Shimano Stradic 4000, Shimano Baitrunner 3500, or Penn Z series (bailess) depending on the plugs I want to throw and the time of year.

Now, the rods get interesting because depending on what you are throwing, a different rod may be in order. For example, those skilled in throwing pencil poppers use a long rod (10ft.) with a very soft tip. They put the butt of the rod between their legs and the tip straight up. They can make that pencil popper do wild things. I do not even try their technique.

I have many custom rods as well as St. Croix. One can certainly use an 8 ft. Ugly Stik and have fun.

I will be throwing LARGE wood plugs soon. Last week, I was using a Shimano Stradic with a St. Croix Avid 8 ft. rod (ASRS80M) throwing white storm shads.

I will use a Van Staal with a custom 8 ft. 6" rod for large wood plugs.

I think an 8 ft. Ugly Stik (BWS 1100/1101/1102) with a Shimano Baitrunner 3500 is hard to beat and will not kill your pocket. You will even be able to use thissetup on a boat, although you may wish to shorten up on the rod.

Fire the questions/comments away!

Capt. Ed

[Capt. Ed]

Hi All,

I was looking at some rods today and at $70 or so the Shakespeare 7' Ugly-Stik® BWSG 1102 is hard to beat for throwing plugs of all sizes at a good price.

Thanks,

Capt. Ed

[tabasco_joe]

I picked up an 8ft Tica at Harrys on Saturday.  They had 20% off all fishing gear.  Have to get out this weekend and give it a try.

[ped579]

Good luck...The law is new rods always catch fish...LOL

Paul

[Capt. Ed]

Hi Tabasco,

Good luck with it ... there are certainly fish around to break it in!

Best wishes,

Capt. Ed