Opinion - What should be my next two rods?

[ebwood]

Hey guys,

I am new to bass fishing and this forum. I started reading some of your posts and found this as a great resource. I hope that you can help me. After a few very unsuccessful trips to the Lake Eufaula in Alabama, I sought help from my local fishing store Sportsmans Outfitters in Dothan, AL. They spent alot of time with me and got me setup with a Helium LTA 6'9 MH All purpose, and a shimano citica 6:2:1. I went that weekend and caught three largemouth bass upwards of 2.5 pounds within a short time - it was all worth it - finally success! I am spending alot of time in what seems to be a sport with a pretty high learning curve. I am having a great time, and have gained confidence in my new setup, as well as casting with my favorite lure - spinnerbait.

My question is that I am finding that I spend alot of time cutting off lures and trying different ones, and I know most serious guys carry alot of rods with them on each trip. I purchased a Shimano 5:1:1 for crankbaits, etc, and am looking to pair it up with another helium. Considering the two reels I have with the two ratios and the one Helium that I have what would be your next pick or should I swap my reel to a different rod? I got Mike Iconelli's dvd and he recommended 3 to start, 2 7' rods, and both ratio reels I have, as well as a 2500 spinning reel and fiberglass rod. I am just trying to get the basics to do alot of different bass fishing, later I would like to specialize my rod/reel for technique and lure. My local shop is recommending either a 7ft medium helium, any other input?

Any info, pointers, or advice would be very appreciated. I hope to purchase my next Kistler tomorrow.

Thanks,
Bryan

[creationfish]

Bryan
First let me say welcome to the forum. You did not mention if you were looking for a crankin rod for small or larger crank baits. For larger crankbaits I would recommend the He70MC, this rod doubles for a fantastic Zara Spook rod For smaller crankbaits say a Speed Trap and Rattle traps under certain applications etc go with the He70MLC. This one doubles well with splash its and other smaller top waters.
Good Luck!!!!!
Mike

[ebwood]

Honestly just starting out I don't really know what the basic rods I should have for my first three. I currently have:

Shimano Citica 6:2:1
Shimano Citica 5:1:1
Helium LTA 6'9" MH All purpose

The Citica 6:2:1 is currently on the LTA 6'9" MH.

I questioned the guy who sold me the Helium 6'9" LTA MH All Purpose why he didn't sell me a 7 footer. Should I be concerned about that or not - for my first combo? I think he thought he sold me a 7 footer, but I think he was out of them at the time.

Kinda looking for something to go with the 5:1:1. I don't know what this ratio is good for - I understand crank baits, but want something that I can be versatile with to start out. I have enjoyed throwing a spinnerbait with the other combo, and buzzbait. I guess I am still a little unclear of what techniques I should be using for each ratio reel, and what rods will work best for versatility and multiple techniques considering my limited number of parts just starting out.

After I pair up the 5:1:1 with a rod (hopefully tomorrow)... I think my next should be a spinning reel/rod for finesse / worm fishing?

So to break it down I think what I am shooting for is:
1. 6:2:1 / 6'9" LTA MH - for spinner bait, buzz baits etc - What are your thoughts on the first combo?
2. 5:1:1 / 7' LTA Medium - for top water poppers, crankbait, not sure what else? ** First priority **
3. XX Reel XX (anyone got a recommendation?) / 7' - for worms, not sure what else? ** Second Priority**

Sorry to be so long winded,...

Thanks,
Bryan

[basscop]

ebwood,

Just don't try to complicate things, if you are just starting out I recomend getting a medium heavy casting helium for worm,jigs etc I like 6'6 but you could go with 7' it's your preference. For cranks,buzzbaits etc I would go with a medium action again I like 6'6 for all purpose as you still get the accuracy and some distance. As far as spinning gear goes I use a 6'9 for my finesse fishing and it works out great.

I hope this helps

[creationfish]

Bryan
I agree with Basscop. Don't complicate things. I would recommend going with the He70MLC or He70MC for what you are talking about throwing. But I like 7' rods for cranking and topwater personally.
Let us know how it goes.
Mike

[ebwood]

Hey Guys,

Ok, I was wrong about what I had. I got out my first rod it is a HE70MHC, and it is paired to my 6:2:1 reel.

The rod I bought today is a HE70MC and it is paired to my 5:1:1 reel. I am going to use it for crankbaits, etc.

Thanks for the advice. Hope to give it a go at the lake over the weekend.

Bryan

[Lightninrod]

Brian: Welcome to the Kistler family .

You have two, great rods!


Dan