Thinking of getting 2 new plug rods this year and would like to go with Loomis rods. I was wondering which rods you guys like?

I'd look in to a fiberglass rod before I dropped some serious bank roll on a graphite G-Loomis. Graphite wouldn't be my choice for a new plugging rod.

Graphite rods are unforgiving. Great if you want to set the hook when using drift or spinner gear. Not so great when a fish strikes your plug but misses because the rod yanked the plug out of it's mouth.

Check the majors (Loomis, Fennwick, Lamiglass) to see if they make a new fiberglass one-piece plugging rod. I know Fennwick does, but not sure about Lammi or Loomi.

Parker

I agree with parker, i use a fiberglass rod for plugging and it makes the plugs run better.

I love my fat red Fenwick Fenglass rod for plugging. It's a two piece with great slow action up top and a big backbone at the bottom. Plus, I think they hold up to abuse a lot better than some rods. Outdoor Emporium has them for around $70.

Having said that, TH of TH Custom Rods is a regular poster and can probably set you up with something. A friend is having him make a couple Loomis 1083s (I think that's the model) at a very good price.

Bruce

[This message has been edited by B. Gray (edited 05-05-2000).]

HSR 9000C GL3 is the rod to get.
Light tip, stout butt..
If you dont want to drop over 400 bucks for 2 new rods, I have 2 7'6" 1 piece Lamiglas plug rods I will part with with at a very good price.

I have been running Loomis GL3 HSR9000's and GL3 HSR930's for most of my steelhead and salmon fishing. I love the sensitivity that these rods offer but I have recently been changing my views after purchasing a Fenwick FS85C fiberglass plug rod. I love the action that the Fenwick has not to mention that it costs alomost $200 less than the Loomis.

I have had a lot of brutal takedowns on my Loomis plug rods only to come up empty when you grab the rod. The extra fast action of the Loomis doesn't give as much as the fiberglass when a fish strikes resulting in more missed strikes(my opinion from trial and error). The fiberglass has slower action which I believe allows a fish to hold the plug better giving you more time to set the hook.

If you plan on running bait divers, then the fiberglass rod is the way to go. The slow action will allow a fish to chew on the bait without feeling as much springy resistance.

Anyways, Fishawk, if you have your heart set on Loomis, then I reccommend the GL3 HSR9000 for summer runs and hatchery winter runs. I have caught 20+ pounders on this rod which was totally maxed out the whole battle. For heavier applications such as native steelies I suggest the GL3 HSR930 which is heavier than the 9000 but still offers killer sensitivity. I have even caught kings over 30lbs. on the 930's and they're still in one piece!

Life is short...fish hard!!

Fiberglass is nice, but if your looking for a Loomis, the GL2 #hsr1021c is also a nice rod.

I run the Loomis HSR981C's, there an okay rod but maybe too heavy for summer runs. I've heard some rumblings lately about the MBR941C's as a good plug rod. Anybody use these?

My friend purchaced a factory MBR941C and loves it. The rod is GL2 and retails for $135.00.It is 7'10" long. I am getting a blank for this rod (MB941) and going to have it made into a spin cast which I like due to the fact I am rowing most of the time and I need to get my plug out fast or miss the hole. Spin rods have less guides and one can put single foot guides on and thus get the action people are talking about in the glass rods.If you like a 8' or 8'2" rod have the builder lengthen the rod at the butt section. Make sure this extra piece of rod fits tight.
I and most of the people I fish with agree that a Plug Rod needs a very active tip and arch through the mid section and good backbone. The MBR941 gives you all these.
Graphite rods actually help set the hook.

[This message has been edited by Lilcorky1 (edited 05-05-2000).]

[This message has been edited by Lilcorky1 (edited 05-05-2000).]

Maybe this discussion answers the question why all the guides have their rods nearly parallel to the water's surface when plugging ... most private boats have the rods skyward

My dad has a sweet loomis and its a GL2 8'6" and is has a super soft tip. The ounce ratio is 3/4 to 4oz and this rod could be used for almost anything.

fishawk,
i like my fenwick fiberglass, $100.
just a note though, it is easier to agree to terms on line than to consumate the deal.

My two favorite plug rods are

1) GL3 HSR 981C 8'2 (10-20) I sell more of these rods to local guides than any other rod. A good steelhead rod, an even better chinook rod.

2) GL2 MBR 941C 7'10 (8-17) Quckly becoming the #1 steelhead plug rod of choice. Light enough for hatchery runs and summer steelhead with enough power to handle wild fish as well and the accidental spring chinook. This rod also appeals to those who want a boat full of Loomis rods but don't want to have to sell their blood to do so. Just over $100 for each rod.

I think the greatest difference between these rods is that the 981 is also a great chinook plug rod and allows anglers the opportunity two fish two species. The 941 is a tad light to pull K16's all year. If I was buying one plug rod.... hands down the HSR 981. (Right Bob D. :-)) )))))

TH

www.thcustomrods.com

I want to thank everyone for there input. I've decided to go with the MBR941C's, I was able to find some for under $100 apiece. Thanks again.