I'm looking to purchase some new downrigger rods and wanted feedback from some experienced salt guys. First off does Lamiglas make a downrigger model? I presently have a couple older rods with foam handles. I would like to find a couple quality cork handle rods in the 8' range. Any suggestions? Maybe I should go custom?

Lamiglas has a Certified Pro (fiberglass rod) the XCF862 which was made specifically for downrigger fishing, sweet rod but kinda pricey (imho) for a downrigger rod, $125.

I really like the Loomis 1265C's, in the heavy rating. They're 10.5', plenty stout, and I really like the exra "sweep" (when it goes off from a loaded position) the long rods gives ya for 'rigger fishing. If ya want, I've got a couple left for sale.

I'd go with Shimano TDRs, 30-35 each.

Shimano TDR

Just curious -- why do you want cork? I can't see how that's an advantage for a saltwater rod, especially for downrigger use.

That's why God made Eagle Claw rods!

nordic
you have several good choices for a rigger rod. If you want a good one go with aither the certified pro from lamiglass or a Fenwick DR-90. I would personally reccomend the Dr-90, It is a 9' E glass ros biult with fuji guides and hypavalon (foam) handle and retails for $99.99. It is probably one of the best rods Iv'e seen. I have sold hundreds of them and the only defect's Ive seen has been broken guides. You should stick with the foam handles because the cork ones will break down from the coninual heavy pressure against the rod holder. If you want to keep it a little on the economy side look at one of the new Shimano Talora downrigger rods, These are a composit glass-Graphite rod. A 8'-9.5' model retails for $69.99. They are also built with Fuji componants and have a foam reel seat, they tend to feel a little stiffer but are very suprising for the cost. On the really chaep crap scale you can use a Shimano TDR or a Diawa heartland. Both go for $ 39.99 but have a high falure rate. I know this will raise a few hackles but stay away from any all graphite rods. Most graphite rods just cannot stand up to the continued pressure and worse of all trying to trip the relaease to check your bait. The loomis SAR1265c of STR1265c are the only two that I have seen that seem to hold up but I am sceptic even of them. I hope this helps.

The shimano TDRs are the best value. Decent rod, great price.

This guy built me a couple of rods we really like
http://www.northwestcustomrods.com

I have a TDR, an Eagle Claw and new to my collection......a Cannon at prices of $35, $25 and $15, respectively. I haven't used the Cannon yet, but the others have performed great especially for the price. At one point I owned a $90 Fenwick, but after breaking it 2 times I took it back and got the cheaper rods. If you want to spend more money on a DR rods thats cool, but really not necessary from a practicle standpoint.

Go Knucklebuster!
10'6" Shimano Convergance 12 - 25 pound rated for 4 to 8 ounces with a GT-4000. Load that baby up with 65# Spiderwire and you have a great combo for about $140.00 [img]http://www.steelheader.net/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=1343&password=&sort=1&cat=500&page=3[/img]
http://www.steelheader.net/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=1343&password=&sort=1&cat=500&page=3

Is there an ideal length for downrigger rods? I was thinking of when your trying to clip the line and put it in the rod holder. What length seems to be the best?

Thanks

Coho

I like using a 10'6' mooching rod because they have a larger foregrip, and you also have better leverage on the fish around the boat with the extra length.

The length of the rod doesnt really matter for clipping your line on a DR clip because you should be pointing the tip at the bow to get your line close to you to begin with.

Snit ...How much
I just bought a couple of heartlands at sportco...I think I regret it now, Might be just interested if the price is right... I really like the longer rods myself, if only for leverage around the boat, ( I like the looks of a 10.5 bent over my 'rigger better too :rolleyes: )

Hey Nordic, I've gone through the same decision making process and now have a Fenwick FS83C, Custom Made by WW Grigg and finally, a Diawa Heartland S. All are fiberglass and range from 7' 6" to 8' 6" long. I like the shorter length rods because of space constraints on my boat. I like being on the same side of the boat as my netter and the short rods allow this. I've tried longer rods but found I have to back up for netting part. Means the rod person misses the netting fun. Anyway, my selection of rods have both cork and synthetic handles both of which work well. Longevity, well, after 4 seasons of downrigger fishing, they both seem to be holding up well. Anyway, that's my 2 cents worth.