Jigman,
I had another question about float rods. Your rods were all 11,12 or 13' in length. I have been looking at the Loomis STR1265C 10'6" as a combination rod for salmon/steelhead. Is there a need to go to the longer rods or would this length work. I know the 10-20# might be a little on the heavy side for steelhead. Looking for ideas from someone who has done alot of float fishing???? Also, do you find that it is easier to cast long light leaders with a spinning reel and avoid bird's nests?

I've heard some good things about that rod and 10 1/2 is not a bad length. I actually like a heavier rod. Spinning reels are the way to go for jig fishing in my opinion.

I have a 6-10lb 10'6" Lamiglass, that works good for floats spinner, spoon and drifting light weight. I love the extra length even for drift fishing. You can mend quicker and the sensitivity seems better. I will use it this winter for brats, and have already broke it in with summer runs and silvers.
Spinning reel definitely the way to go!

i have a 10' 6' lami too 6 to 10# baitcaster its perfect for jig fishing but it takes a high end baitcaster to cast light waits and you still get backlashes. but if you like to extend your drift its worth it. i also have a spining rod that i use alot, its alot easier to use and i like the sound it makes when fighting a hot steelie but it will also atract a crowd. a good jig rod is usauly to light to handle big salmon but it can be done. do not try to jig fish with that 10 to 20 it won't cast the light weight jigs as well. i am looking real hard at center pins but cant aford them yet. tight lines

Thanks for the replys! Any ideas on spinning reels for 8 to 12# line. Is Shimano the best
way to go? Or is there a good product out there for a little less money?

Now that we're talking brands of reels, this will probably get convoluted. Do a search on spinning reels in the forum and you'll come up with some long threads. But here's my .02. I love my Stradic. It has handled a lot of big, hot, native steelhead stripping off a lot of line without a hitch. I got it as a present after using a Sahara for a long time that also served me very well for the price. Now that I think of it, I've never really had any complaints about my Sahara, Symetre or the Stradic. They're all from Shimano.

I've also heard very good things about the service you get from Shimano if anything should go wrong. I haven't had to test the theory yet.

B. Gray

[This message has been edited by B. Gray (edited 11-16-2000).]

I use the Shimano Symetre and have no complaints, use it for 8 and 12 pound line.