Stitching Rod And Reel Recommendations

[5-20]

I've been thinking about trying stitching worms for some time now along the lines of how Bill Murphy approached it, with a single size 5 or 7 split shot. I've never been too crazy about using spinning tackle and fluoro line. I know, there's a few tricks in regard to making fluoro more manageable on spinning reels, I'm just not a generally big fan of using spinning tackle unless I absolutely have to. 

 

Let me add that I've always enjoyed power fishing and I've never really had to use anything smaller than a 200 size bait casting reel, especially living in texas for several years before moving to san diego about a year and a half ago.

 

So what I'm wondering is for you guys that stitch worms, how are those size 50 baitcasters working for you? I would probably put that on a Loomis IMX MBR 843 and use 10 or 12 lb. fluoro. 

 

Or are there still undeniable advantages with using spinning tackle as far as casting distance's concerned? 

 

Would the same Loomis blank I mentioned above, the IMX SJR 843 still be a good choice for a spinning stitching rod or do you guys prefer something a little longer, in the 7'2 to 7'6 range since this rod's only 7'? Could you recommend a couple of ideal rods? 

 

Would the typical 3000 size spinning reel be a good choice or do I probably need something with a bigger spool? Just not really a fan of anything bigger than the 3000 reels since that's when they start getting pretty heavy. I like daiwa when it comes to spinning reels. The new black colored Procyon feels pretty great. 

 

Thanks, really appreciate any/all input you can share! Bill Murphy fished with very different tackle back then and it's difficult to compare what he fished with with all of the other choices we have today. 

[J Francho]

I'm not really a stitcher per se, but I do do it in a way with several finesse baits. I really like a little bit stouter rod, with braid and a leader for this.

I'm using a Pinnacle DHC5-681SPM, PEF30 reel, 20# 832, and various leaders like 8-12# CXX or Seaguar leader material (not reel filler line). I feel like I can feel what I need to feel, have the power to horse a fish from cover, while still using a light stick, that can deliver baits that weigh nothing with little effort.

[HoosierHawgs]

What is stitching? I've never heard of it so I can't help you there....

[BassCats]

I would practice with what you have first to see if you can handle the slow pace this system needs. Once you are sure of it and know you like then I would get tackle more inclined toward the specific technique. I believe that spinning gear is preferable on this technique. I personally have never tried it with baitcasting.

[roadwarrior]

http://www.mikelongoutdoors.com/stitching-big-worms-for-big-bass/

 

 

 

 

[rippin-lips]

Definitely try it before you buy new gear. I read that book and its has a lot of info in it. That's just a technique I don't think I could ever have the patience for. Heck he'd anchor his boat and just sit for an hour before fishing. That guy had a lot of patience.

[Maxximus Redneckus]

I used to have a don ivinio stitchin rod had a weird handle on it Casting handle the fore grip was made so you could hold the line as you stitched was very comfy.

[BasshunterJGH]

Good question. Honestly I don't think I have enough patience for the stitching technique. I'd probably use a long spinning rod and large reel, maybe a 2500 or 3000 size, and 8-12 lb fluoro. In pursuit of giant bass is an excellent book. I think I've learned more about bass fishing from that book than just about anything, except maybe this site...

[5-20]

Thanks, appreciate all of the suggestions. Yep, I noticed that ML article earlier. Pretty interesting approach he takes with the baitcasting equipment and that 14-16 lb. line he apparently likes for that tactic. 

 

I'll continue to think about it for a bit. Just kinda curious about the whole anchoring thing. Never thought I'd have an anchor (let alone two) in my boat, but the  more I fish the little lakes in san diego, the more I think I can see the benefits of using an anchor. 

[Grizzn N Bassin]

http://www.mikelongoutdoors.com/stitching-big-worms-for-big-bass/

 

 

 

 

Great article! and another favorite site of mine

[A-Jay]

I committed to it a couple of seasons ago - good experience for certain.  Never really managed to produce for me here like I had hoped.

 

I recommend spinning gear for sure.  The rigs must be light and casting gear will be problematic.  As you read, Mr Murphy perfected the technique, no sense reinventing the wheel.

 

I will offer you of two thoughts in advance of your journey;

   

1).  You will need patience - and not the kind we use on say a drop shot or a jig.  Compared to stitching (and I'm talking about going it as it's described in the book), fishing a jig is like a buzzbait . . . .This is an extremely slow deal that can not be rushed.  You'll be fishing 1 or 2 spots a trip - that's the whole day. 

 

2).  A double anchoring system is a must.  And if you've not anchored much in the past or don't have a rig that makes it easy, you'll struggle.  So commit to the 2 anchors, set your rig up to provide the most convenient arrangement possible and practice your positioning.  It's critical to the success of the technique. 

 

Below is a link to a thread I ran while I did it.  Didn't end like I would have wanted but taught me a bunch none the less.

 

Good Luck

 

A-Jay

 

 

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/118320-in-pursuit-of-giant-bass-one-mans-journey/?hl=%2Bpursuit+%2Bof+%2Bgiant+%2Bbass