Cranking/jerkbait Reel

[Dypsis]

I am hoping sometime this Spring to get a GLX 855 CBR.  It will be used for all my cranking needs - shallow to deep.  As well as pointers, 110s, and similar. 

 

I am trying to figure out what to pair with it.  From some googling - many people prefer a 5.x to 1 reel for cranks where as for jerks the IPT are more important ranging from 26-30 IPT.  This will be my first CBR - currently I throw them on a IMX 844C with a  Chronarch 150 CI4+ HG. 

 

I want to stick with Shimano, as I own 3 of there reels and have really liked them.  I am looking at around $200 for the reel. 

 

Suggestions on ratio, IPT recommendations are welcome.  I was looking at a Chronarch 200E5 but the IPT is only 23, while I am new to jerkbaits what would having less IPT really do - I assume I would just have to turn another 1/4 turn to take in a little more slack depending on my cadence. 

 

Thanks,

 

Matt

[Lucky Craft Man]

Matt,

 

You have an interesting dilemma.  You are looking for one rod to handle techniques that ideally three (or four) rods will be used for.  For example, for jerkbaits, I like to use a shorter rod (6'9") with a faster action (actually, I like a mod-fast rod) with a reel that has 28 IPT when the reel is full.  I have gone through many different rods with various actions and different reels with various IPT to come to that combination, which suites how and where I fish jerkbaits.  I use a 7'5" moderate action rod for shallow to medium running crankbaits with a reel that has around 24 IPT.  I have a 7'11" moderate action rod for deep diving crankbaits with a reel that has 22 IPT.  

 

With that being said, I would focus on getting a rod that suits what you will be fishing the most.  For example, if you suspect that you will be throwing jerkbaits and shallow to medium running cranks more than deep diving dredgers, then that G Loomis GLC 855 CBR would be an excellent choice.  And as far as the IPT on a reel, I would suggest you stay around 26 IPT.  If you go up into say 28 to 30 IPT, those medium diving crankbaits could be a little more of a chore to use all day (not saying you can't do it, just saying it will be a little more taxing than with a lower ratio reel).  If you drop into the 24 IPT or lower, then you will not be able to catch up the slack between jerks while jerkbait fishing, which is a total pain in the rear end. 

 

I think the best choice for you would be the Shimano Chronarch CI4+ (it has 26 IPT).  You already have the Shimano Chronarch CI4+HG (which is a great worm and frog reel) so you are used to how it feels in your hands.  Plus, if you look around, I bet you could find one around that $200 mark you are seeking.

 

Good luck in your search and I think you will love the GLX 855 CBR.  I know I do and it makes for one nice Lipless Crankbait rod on top of those other techniques you are wanting to cover.

[FishTank]

Personally, I would stick with the combo that you are currently using for jerkbaits and figure what crank you through the most, then buy the rod accordingly.

 

The one you picked would be a great choice for just about most of the stuff I through.  I have fished this rod before and liked it but I thought it was too sensitive.  I ended up returning it for the CBR 783  (not one of my better decisions).  I wish I would have stuck with the longer GLX.  On the bright side, I purchased a Shimano Crucial last year and it has fit the bill nicely.  It bridges the gap between sensitivity and power. 

 

As far as a reel goes, the low speed chronarch will do nicely. 

[A-Jay]

OK let's look at what you're looking for by starting with the baits you intend to fish.

 

Shallow and mid depth crank baits generally are not fished with a 5: something reel nor do they require one.

 

When throwing Deep Cranks some anglers like a reel with a lower IPT ie, slower gear ratio.

 

Pointers or jerkbaits when fished in the traditional " Jerk / pause" fashion can definitely benefit from a higher IPT ie faster gear ratio reel.

 

So you could consider splitting it all down the middle and get a reel in the 6 something ratio range and make the best of it.

 

Good Luck

 

A-Jay

[A-Jay]

Matt,

 

You have an interesting dilemma.  You are looking for one rod to handle techniques that ideally three (or four) rods will be used for.  For example, for jerkbaits, I like to use a shorter rod (6'9") with a faster action (actually, I like a mod-fast rod) with a reel that has 28 IPT when the reel is full.  I have gone through many different rods with various actions and different reels with various IPT to come to that combination, which suites how and where I fish jerkbaits.  I use a 7'5" moderate action rod for shallow to medium running crankbaits with a reel that has around 24 IPT.  I have a 7'11" moderate action rod for deep diving crankbaits with a reel that has 22 IPT.  

 

With that being said, I would focus on getting a rod that suits what you will be fishing the most.  For example, if you suspect that you will be throwing jerkbaits and shallow to medium running cranks more than deep diving dredgers, then that G Loomis GLC 855 CBR would be an excellent choice.  And as far as the IPT on a reel, I would suggest you stay around 26 IPT.  If you go up into say 28 to 30 IPT, those medium diving crankbaits could be a little more of a chore to use all day (not saying you can't do it, just saying it will be a little more taxing than with a lower ratio reel).  If you drop into the 24 IPT or lower, then you will not be able to catch up the slack between jerks while jerkbait fishing, which is a total pain in the rear end. 

 

I think the best choice for you would be the Shimano Chronarch CI4+ (it has 26 IPT).  You already have the Shimano Chronarch CI4+HG (which is a great worm and frog reel) so you are used to how it feels in your hands.  Plus, if you look around, I bet you could find one around that $200 mark you are seeking.

 

Good luck in your search and I think you will love the GLX 855 CBR.  I know I do and it makes for one nice Lipless Crankbait rod on top of those other techniques you are wanting to cover.

 

You beat me to the punch - well said.

 

A-Jay

[Dypsis]

Thanks for the great responses.  LCM - very informative post.  I understand I am trying to combine about 3 different rods into one, but that is where I am at the moment. 

 

I would say 50% of the time I will be throwing Jerks, 40 % shallow and medium cranks then other 10% deep cranks - I actually almost never throw them currently but know they have their place.

[Dypsis]

Personally, I would stick with the combo that you are currently using for jerkbaits and figure what crank you through the most, then buy the rod accordingly.

 

The one you picked would be a great choice for just about most of the stuff I through.  I have fished this rod before and liked it but I thought it was too sensitive.  I ended up returning it for the CBR 783  (not one of my better decisions).  I wish I would have stuck with the longer GLX.  On the bright side, I purchased a Shimano Crucial last year and it has fit the bill nicely.  It bridges the gap between sensitivity and power. 

 

As far as a reel goes, the low speed chronarch will do nicely. 

 

In what way was the rod too sensitive?

[Dypsis]

OK let's look at what you're looking for by starting with the baits you intend to fish.

 

Shallow and mid depth crank baits generally are not fished with a 5: something reel nor do they require one.

 

When throwing Deep Cranks some anglers like a reel with a lower IPT ie, slower gear ratio.

 

Pointers or jerkbaits when fished in the traditional " Jerk / pause" fashion can definitely benefit from a higher IPT ie faster gear ratio reel.

 

So you could consider splitting it all down the middle and get a reel in the 6 something ratio range and make the best of it.

 

Good Luck

 

A-Jay

 

A 6 might be the way to go with a 26 IPT- I certainly want something to be able to catch up to the slack while fishing jerkbaits as LCM said.

[FishTank]

In what way was the rod too sensitive?

 

 

I could feel the bite almost immediately.  I would then get excited and set the hook missing the fish. I never gave the fish a few extra seconds to take the bait. 

 

One important thing to note and sorry I did not mention it, is that I was speaking of the older version GLX.  If what I read was true on the review of the new rods (TT), the new rods are a totally different animal. 

[Hogsticker]

I'd get a Chronarch 50. Low Ipt not only good for cranks, but it will keep you from over working those jerks. It's also going to cast the jerks a little better. Wouldn't be my 1st Choice for deep cranks, but I also wouldn't use the same rod for jerks and deep cranks.

[fishballer06]

I personally prefer a 6:1 reel for jerkbaits, that way I can pick up the slack quicker. It is also a good ratio for shallower cranks (0-8 ft). I personally use the ci4 151 for this application.

I use a 5:1 Chronarch 201e5 for my deeper cranks (7-12 ft). If they made the left ci4 power gear model, I'd probably use that.

For the super deep stuff (12 ft+), I'll be throwing a Zillion crazy cranker 4.9:1.

As for the rod, I prefer a fast action for my jerkbaits, a moderate for deep cranks, and a mod fast to fast for shallower cranks. So like others have said, I think you're trying to cover too much with one rod.

[Arv]

I'd get a Chronarch 50. Low Ipt not only good for cranks, but it will keep you from over working those jerks. It's also going to cast the jerks a little better. Wouldn't be my 1st Choice for deep cranks, but I also wouldn't use the same rod for jerks and deep cranks.

This. The deepest I fish is kind of mid range divers. But for shallow cranks and jerkbaits on my 705cb I just got a ch51e at cabelas.

[slimshad]

Man you guys are very meticulous on rods.  I am impressed.  I have several rods that I would not be scared to throw shallow/mid crankbaits and Jerkbaits.  I also use my deep cranking glass rod for Jerkbaits and 10+ footers.  Reels too, 24 IPT 26 IPT 28 IPT too many numbers and letters for me.  Good luck with your search.  Sounds like you got your answers.  Just know you can adjust your IPT alil when you feel how hard you jerk the bait lol.  Its fishing guys, dont over think it.  I say your rod with any of these reels will work awesome. 

[roadwarrior]

Guys that fish deep diving or heavy lures NEED technique specific equipment.

I don't think you do. For the limited amount of time you are devoting to these

presentations your jig rod will work just fine.

 

 

 

[smalljaw67]

Personally I would be using different rods but that is just me. For your reel, go with something in the 6.blank:1 ratio, todays reels have better and more bearings with better gears that allow you to crank with higher gear ratios. Randy McAbee uses deep diving baits like the DD22 with a Revo STX 6.4:1 and has no problem.

[Dypsis]

It seems as though a 6.x:1 is the best option.  Thanks for all input, love this site!