Baitcasting Rod For Both Crankbaits And Spinnerbaits?

[RushFan2112]

Hey All, This is really a two-question post, but I'm hoping that you can help me out. Got out for about 6 hours today and was able to try out some of the new gear. I recently got a used Daiwa Advantage HSTA caster (6.3 ratio) and paired it up with a 10 year old 6' Crucial rod. The rod it listed for 1/4 to 3/4oz and is marked with "Topwater, Spinnerbait, and Crankbaits" along the blank. It doesn't have the action or weight listed, but I'd consider it a M to MH Fast action rod.

So, I'm throwing 1/4 and 1/2oz Xrap's and squarebills all morning and loving life. I then switch to one of my "old faithful" Terminator 1/2oz spinnerbaits with a larger Oklahama blade. It's like trying to muscle in a log! I then throw on another Terminator, 1/4oz with some smaller willow blades thinking that the large willow blade is trying to move too much water for my setup - same results. Very hard to retrieve and my wrist was feeling it in a major way. The rod was also bending fairly heavily during the retrieve. If I pointed my rod tip right at the bait, it seemed to help a little bit, but it just didn't feel right. I've always fished my larger spinnerbaits on a MH spinning rod and a 2500 size reel without issues. I don't know if it's the gear ratio of the reel, or the M action of the rod that made it feel like I was dragging a Ford F150, but it was not very enjoyable. I don't want to have to use a separate rod for spinnerbaits and crankbaits due to the fact that I only shore fish and hate carrying more then two or three rods.

So, question number one - Should I be looking at another rod? Is there a rod that has the slight whip of a crankbait rod and the backbone and stiffness to also retrieve larger spinnerbaits without bending in half, or am I asking for something that doesn't exist? According to the print on my Crucial rod, it does exist, but doesn't function correctly for my needs. Any input on the rod would be appreciated. I'd be willing to spend around $100 for another rod if need be.

Also, the reel. I really like it, but it may not be able to be used for both applications that I want to use it for. I figured that going with a 6.3 ratio would give me the best of both worlds in power and speed, but it's looking like my assumption was possibly wrong. Thanks in advance for your replies.

Tight Lines!

<*))))><

[.ghoti.]

If a 1/4oz willow spinner bait puts a deep bend in your rod when retrieving, it is neither MH nor fast. That sounds like a medium power moderate action rod, and should be just what you need for a small crankbait rod.

Consider a new MH-F rod for your spinnerbaits. It will double as a worm/ small jig rod.

6.3:1 gearing is fine for either application.

[Hooligan]

Ghoti gives good advice.

[RushFan2112]

If a 1/4oz willow spinner bait puts a deep bend in your rod when retrieving, it is neither MH nor fast. That sounds like a medium power moderate action rod, and should be just what you need for a small crankbait rod.

Consider a new MH-F rod for your spinnerbaits. It will double as a worm/ small jig rod.

6.3:1 gearing is fine for either application.

Thanks, ghoti. I apologize as I should've clarified that when I threw on the 1/4oz spinner, the bend was much less than the 1/2oz spinner. The reel still felt like a it had a lot of resistance with the 1/4oz though. I was really hoping that I could just have a single rod for both spinners and cranks, since I only have one casting reel. Thanks for the reply.

[.ghoti.]

RushFan, another thing to consider would be to have that reel serviced. The HSTA is a nice reel; one I would put on the "best bang for the buck" list.

If it feels like it's straining under a load, it may very well need a good clean and lube. Not what you want to hear at the beginning of the fishing season, but try to get it done anyway. Contact DVT, a board sponsor, for a quote, and maybe turn-around time. I service my own, but this guy gets a lot of positive comments on the quality of his work.

That reel will last a long time if properly and routinely serviced.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Ghoti,

Thanks for the compliment.

RushFan,

I concur with the recommendation of a MH/F rod for spinnerbaits. I'll add that spinning tackle is not ideal for moving baits with lots of resistance (heavy spinnerbaits, deep cranks...) A baitcast reel is more of a winch type engineering. I don't think you need more rods necessarily, but you may want ot rethink how you use them. I shore fish with a MH/F baitcaster for all lures 1/2oz> and a M/F spinning for <1/2oz. If i know I'll be throwing a type(s) bait I'll adjust what I bring to minimize compromises. I also usually have more rods in the vehicle.

I'll be happy to take a look at your Daiwa if you want. Service costs $16.20 plus shipping for forum members.