What do you think is the ideal rod length for creek/river smallmouth fishing?

[Cravin]

On 6/18/2021 at 3:51 PM, Ohioguy25 said:

Is there any disadvantage to a 7’ rod over a 6’6” in a kayak or otherwise?

A short butt end for Kayaking is a plus I've read.

St Croix Mojo Yak is specifically designed for Kayaking, I don't kayak but it seemed to be a well thought out rod. 

 

https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/st-croix-mojo-yak-spinning-rod?ds_e=GOOGLE&ds_c=Shop|Generic|AllProducts|High|SSCCatchAll&gclid=CjwKCAjwzruGBhBAEiwAUqMR8G7krGsyBeruZwmaEGzX8fS9Nkn2WDQQABzla71a3Mf5nB-6gZSjGRoCWygQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

[BoatSquirrel]

6'6".  And dont bring any rods in your kayak you cant afford to lose.  My boy lost his #1 ned rig, dropshot, and topwater rods yesterday when he flipped his yak in a rapid.  

[jejenkyns]

On 6/18/2021 at 4:51 PM, Ohioguy25 said:

Is there any disadvantage to a 7’ rod over a 6’6” in a kayak or otherwise?

My shortest casting rod is 6'3". It's a quality pole, no doubt, but the casting difference between that rod, and say, a quality 7ft rod is surprisingly small. On the other hand, it is far more accurate and much more maneuverable.

 

If I have the space, sure, I will bring a longer rod, but I don't miss much as I gain so much more from short rods.

[PaulVE64]

From the bank - 6'mlfast

Wading - 7'-6 mlxf

[bowhunter63]

7ft 6 medium xtra fast. My favorite 

[Hulkster]

I like 7'6 rods as I fish from the shore/bank. 

I have caught some great river smallies on the imx pro SJR 901S light powered spinning rod, paired with a Nasci 1000 reel and 6 pound sufix siege.