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I'm looking for a medium sized rod to pair with a ~5000 size reel. I'd like something with a faster taper than my longer rods. I hear a lot of people mention steelhead rods, but I've never used on. I'm thinking 8'6 or 9ft, so I could still use it up in kentucky.
Id mainly use this for lures, but wouldn't rule out casting bait on calmer days (1-2oz).
i need to make sure it can handle 20-30lb braid and have the backbone for pompano, medium reds, etc.
Does anyone have a suggestion?
Mattb, I use steelhead rods all the time in freshwater, have used them to throw fairly light jigs for flounder and trout. I love them. I assume you are talking about the ones labeled as a"noodle" action. The rods are loaded with 3000 size spinning reels and 6 lb mono. I absolutely cannot remember a fish breaking my line, the long rod absorbs so much of the energy. Downside is the rods are heavy.
+1 what LevelWind said.
About 10 years ago I bought several steelhead rods for surf fishing (9 1/2', 10 1/2', 11 1/2').
They worked fine for light duty set rigs, but not at all what you are wanting Matt (fast taper).
IMHO try the 8/ 6" INXS 861220 (Inshore Extreme) from Bass Pro.
I believe you may have fished with that rod last year when we met.
It has a fast taper and could easily handle the parameters you mentioned.
With 30# braid it casts a plug a good distance!