12-21-2010, 01:35 AM
I would consider getting a rod custom made for what you are going to want to use it for. There are many great rod makers out there and they can use many blanks including Lamiglass and St. Croix, They can use very high end blanks without those names and save a few bucks also. Could be the same blank or better but without the name. The cost of getting a great rod made is about what it costs for the others and a good rod builder will stand behind and provide a warranty on his craft. Special inlay custom threading, hook keepers, action, etc. The thread work is really only limited by your imagination. Sports team or colors, designs, fish, etc. Sweet custom handles, I could go on and on.
I have fished and still fish with cheaper Okuma setups and have caught many fish and really they are my go to rods/setups. I must say tho there is nothing finer than a high quality balanced light weight rod in your hand. Remember tho, once you get that way nice rod, you are going to want to get that way high end reel. Oh yeah, then you need the one for walleye, and don't forget spring trout, or the fall bass or the cabin fever model......
I have fished also Kistler and Carrot Stix........both very nice. You may want to consider a Carrot Stix rod for an off the shelf rod. The materials are extremely high quality and unique to them. The rods are so sweet. The Kistlers are extremely nice too but I think you will only find those online.
Do stop into a rod builders shop and strike up a conversation. If nothing else he will give you things to ponder over. If you do decide to get one you are helping someone who is most likely doing something he really likes and helping out someone local/small business type. Don't be afraid if he doesn't have that exact one you want to check out. See his work, learn about him and rest assured the rod he makes for you will become a prized work of art you will fall in love with.
[signature]
I have fished and still fish with cheaper Okuma setups and have caught many fish and really they are my go to rods/setups. I must say tho there is nothing finer than a high quality balanced light weight rod in your hand. Remember tho, once you get that way nice rod, you are going to want to get that way high end reel. Oh yeah, then you need the one for walleye, and don't forget spring trout, or the fall bass or the cabin fever model......
I have fished also Kistler and Carrot Stix........both very nice. You may want to consider a Carrot Stix rod for an off the shelf rod. The materials are extremely high quality and unique to them. The rods are so sweet. The Kistlers are extremely nice too but I think you will only find those online.
Do stop into a rod builders shop and strike up a conversation. If nothing else he will give you things to ponder over. If you do decide to get one you are helping someone who is most likely doing something he really likes and helping out someone local/small business type. Don't be afraid if he doesn't have that exact one you want to check out. See his work, learn about him and rest assured the rod he makes for you will become a prized work of art you will fall in love with.
[signature]