Shallow Vs. Deep Crankbait Rods

[Arv]

I just made a different topic similar to this earlier today but found I had this question which I feel deserves its own thread. Do you all think you need 2 different rods for deep and shallow crankbaits? I have not been able to find any solid difference but it seems like deeper divers require a longer rod (7'+) while shallow-mid divers do not need to be as long (6'6''-7'). The majority of my lipped crankbaits are squarebills while I only have a few longer lipped that dive down around 10-12 ft. If I can get away with one rod for everything then I will just buy more deeper diving lures. If its that big of a deal where I should wait (which would be longer than I would like) to get a second set up for deep divers then I will. If it helps any, I am looking to pair this rod with a citica 200g5. Thanks!

[iceintheveins]

If you need extra casting distance, a 7'6" or 7'10" rod will help. Right now I use a 7' for everything and it works just fine.

[bassinbrian]

When I'm using a deep diver I like a more powerful rod (MH) to help with the resistance of the bait plus when setting the hook I have the proper backbone to get the hooks in good and bring the fish up. As for length anything above 7' is just fine but I'm more for accuracy then distance. Another benefit of having 2 rods is that you can keep 2 different style cranks on without spending the time changing. All that being said 1 rod will serve you fine if you dont want to spend the extra money

[new2BC4bass]

Accuracy is fine, but I don't have a depth finder in my little Porta-Bote, so unless I am aiming for an object on top or visible just beneath the surface, accuracy doesn't mean a whole lot to me. I'd rather have the longest cast. Besides, who says you can't be accurate with a longer rod? Might be easier with a short rod, but some practice should overcome that. I agree with Brian. Use a heavier rod for deep cranking. Have you ever tried using a Medium power rod on a deep crank? Sure can put the flex in your rod. I don't like it when my rod feels like it is being over-powered.

EDIT: I don't get out much anymore due to work, so when I'm out I'd rather grab another rod already set up for something else then spend the time re-tying.

[ClackerBuzz]

When I'm using a deep diver I like a more powerful rod (MH) to help with the resistance of the bait plus when setting the hook I have the proper backbone to get the hooks in good and bring the fish up. As for length anything above 7' is just fine but I'm more for accuracy then distance. Another benefit of having 2 rods is that you can keep 2 different style cranks on without spending the time changing. All that being said 1 rod will serve you fine if you dont want to spend the extra money

x2.

In the end I think it comes down to where you fish the most. If 90% of ur fishing is in shallow water then ur one rod is plenty. If you have sonar and like fishing deep then def buy a rod specifically for it. I like my shallow rod to have a fast or xf tip b/c it helps when ripping square bills thru the tips of grass. it helps 'pop' them free and initiate strikes. deep water rods need moderate fast action ie long parabolic bend for hook setting and fighting. Good luck

[roadwarrior]

For shallow running crankbaits: http://www.bassresource.com/fishing_lures/pinnacle-optimus-xlt-dhc-review.html

For deep crankbaits, Lamiglas SR705R

[ChiCityBasser]

I have 2 crankbait rods that I use right now with another rod with no reel on it at this time. My shallow crankbait rod is a Prodigy 7' M/F spinning rod which has work pretty well for me PDS704-2 1/4-3/4 oz. My deep cranking rod is a Prodigy 7' MH/MF casting rod PDC705-1 1/4-1oz. since my deeper diving cranks like the SK 6XD are heavier and as someone else said I want to be able to set the hook on a fish in deeper water and feel the MH will help me do that as well as control the fish once its hooked.

[Arv]

Thanks guys. Sounds like I'll get something 7' M/M-F for now since I'm mostly throwing cranks in shallow water and get the second set up later when I can get out with a good fish finder more often. So much good advice on this site.

[jj'sbassinforfun]

I use a 7' rod for shallow and medium cranks and a 7 1/2' for deeps, But have used a 7' rod in the past.