Abu Garcia Ike Rods, Is Mike Using Them?

[WPCfishing]

I've fished with Ike on 3 different occasions now - no custom rods on his boat.  They're all off-the-shelf, sponsor-supplied, rods.  The exception are a few rods that are prototypes.  But, as anyone that knows beta software, they're not ready for prime-time yet.

 

I've fished with several other pros, and that's pretty much status quo.  Maybe a few have a favorite specialty rod or two they hang onto through the years (rarely custom), but usually they have a full arsenal of sponsor rods. 

 

This works for the sponsors, especially.  They want folks to see the pros use the same equipment you can get at the local tackleshop.  It sells product.  Simple as that.  There's zero incentive to supply their pros with custom gear nobody can buy.

 

This is a video of Glenn with Mike out on the water. Glenn ask's a lot of questions. Many of them from forum members.

 

[WPCfishing]

It actually happened to me when I was a field tester for one of the major brands.  Baitcasting and spinning.  Every one, I think it was about 15.  They give you the time you need to do so effectively and correctly.  If I recall correctly it was at least 6 months, probably closer to 8.

They don't want smoke blown up their skirts or happy talk.  If something doesn't feel right, you are to tell them.  If something doesn't work right, you are to tell them.  It's a pretty intense thing.

 

Good to hear... and they should be willing to listen if they want the sell thru. The days of one hit wonders are over. Rods are to task specific and expensive.

[DTack]

Does anyone think Lebron eats Mcdonalds?? Sponsors are $$$ for any pro, and they merely need to advertise for that company. 

I believe there is a big difference in pay from a fishing rod sponsor to an athlete eating McDonald's haha.  

[WPCfishing]

I believe there is a big difference in pay from a fishing rod sponsor to an athlete eating McDonald's haha.  

 

I'd still rather be fishing... Plus, its a life long career if you do it right and I don't have to eat swill.

[Batson]

Ok Glenn what brand of rods do you use?

Your are the pro here.

Im working on switching Glenn to the dark side

[NJSalt]

I've fished with a few Elite Series anglers and each had stock, off the shelf rods and reels on the deck. As Glenn said above, a few of the rods were from another supplier but all were stock and just the same as you or I could purchase.

[WPCfishing]

I fished with The IKE 74-6 today.. The rods a total 10.

 

It casts with ease, It bombs 1/2oz frogs and the tip is just right for accuracy long or short.The guides and tip are quiet and like glass.  If I had a rod built this would be it. 

The performance and workmanship on this rod is outstanding. I want to buy a 7' MH which is a 5 power, a 7' MF and a 6'6" MM cranking rods. I'm not going to bother with the custom build. 

In case you were wondering, The paint color is really nice. It's not over done at all. This rod has a lot of class. Abu Garcia and Mike did a great job.

[bigbill]

I think fishing is having more confidence in yourself and using your skills. The only way to stay on top of your game is constantly honing your skills to the next level.

I just want to fish. I don't need a high dollar rod with twin turbo chargers and nitrous. Basics is all I want.

[WPCfishing]

I think fishing is having more confidence in yourself and using your skills. The only way to stay on top of your game is constantly honing your skills to the next level.

I just want to fish. I don't need a high dollar rod with twin turbo chargers and nitrous. Basics is all I want.

 

 I agree Bill, But even a lower priced rod action has to match the bait and weight and be comfortable in the hand.