balancing kit

[rocknfish9001]

I got a balancing kit for my rod, and am kind of wondering about the pros and cons. I have it where i can let go of the rod/reel and it will balance in my hand no problem. The tip floats perfectly like its supposed to, but the rod feels heavy. I added 3.5 oz. to the butt to make it balance like that. Is there any downfall to it feeling heavy that will affect my fishing. (sensitivity or other issues.) Other then that, i am pleased with the product.

[dodgeguy]

it's all up to you as an individual.i love balancing all my rods.some guys hate it.a lot of it has to do with your body mechanics and how you fish.try it and see how you like it.

[Guest avid]

I like my rods to be balanced. but I wouldn't go as heavy as 3.5 ounces.  Get a lighter reel.

A properly balanced rod will actually feel lighter even though you added weight.  Just remember the rod is balanced with rod and reel only.  no terminal tackle.

It usually gives best results on worm or jig rods.  

[Bluecraw]

I balance the rods that I use to jig baits off the bottom.  Balancing crank rods, spinnerbait rods, topwater rods, etc. gives no real advantage, because the resistance you feel is through reeling the lure and not raising the rod tip.  

Through experience and education (Mechanical Engineering Degree) I would say it's definitely a good idea.  When you're jigging a lure by raising the rod tip, you're feeling the water resistance plus the lure weight, plus the rod weight times the length of your rod from your hand (lever-arm and fulcrum stuff).  You're increasing the overall weight of the rod, but as long as you're holding the reel close to your body while jigging, it's actually less strain on your lower back.  If you hold the reel a significant distance away from your body while jigging, then yes, you'll feel the extra weight.

Believe me when I say that you'd rather carry (2) 10 foot long 2X4s on your shoulder at the mid-point, than (1) 10 foot long 2X4 by the end.  (2) boards are heavier, but easier to carry.  Hope I explained it well...now, get jiggin'!!!

[Guest DavidGreen]

I would love to know how long the rod is, and the weight of the reel, that your trying to balance out. ..

[rocknfish9001]

Well its a 7' bps extreme rod, and a pflueger president spinning reel that weighs 11.2 oz.

[Guest DavidGreen]

That reel should have balanced the rod by itself. You shouldn't have had to add 3 oz. of lead to it. The reel weighs 11.2 oz., you added 3.5oz to the rod, the rod weight (approx 4.5oz). Your rig now weighs better than 1 lb., it should feel heavy.

Is there any downfall to it feeling heavy that will affect my fishing. (sensitivity or other issues.)

If it feels heavy to you. Use it all day once and you will get your answer.

Balancing a rod is supposed to make it more comfortable (lighter), what you have managed to accomplish is the exact opposite.

[.ghoti.]

Agree, that rig should need little, or no weight. Try this. Most people hold a spinning rig with the reel handle between their middle and ring fingers. Try it between your ring finger and pinkie. This will effectively move the reel back, shifting the balance point.

Hope this hepls. Take all the weight off before you try this.

Cheers,

GK