What is the best short casting rod?

[Drew03cmc]

I am asking this because I frequently wade creeks with a baitcaster for largemouth here in eastern Kansas, as well as float in a canoe for smallmouth or spots. I am currently using some cheaper alternatives which are good rods for the money, but would like to have options for rods. My two go to rods right now are a Berkley Cherrywood HD 5'6" M for plastics and a Tournament Choice (Academy Sports) 5'6" M (I feel it's a ML). They were both under $25, but the Academy is far better than price point. I want some recommendations. On the creeks, I like to throw 10# mono and baits to 1/2oz and it annoys me that nobody makes rods this length any longer. I am aware of the St Croix Premier that fits the bill for me, but am curious what else there might be.

[Afrayedknot]

JDM

[tywithay]

http://www.kistlerrods.com/store/fishin ... g-rod.html

[Drew03cmc]

I like that Kistler. Anything else you can think of? I've been looking for awhile. I like the lighter end of medium, probably from 1/8-5/8 at the absolute max.

[mhood]

GLoomis GLX CR722. If you want lighter, look at the GLoomis IMX CR721. They're both gr8 6 foot sticks.

[USA-RET]

GLoomis GLX CR722. If you want lighter, look at the GLoomis IMX CR721. They're both gr8 6 foot sticks.

X2 on the CR72 (Mine happens to be an IMX though )..

[Drew03cmc]

Any reason why the GLX rather than the IMX or GL3?

While we are at it, what reel would you put on a Kistler or the CR721?

[mhood]

Any reason why the GLX rather than the IMX or GL3?

While we are at it, what reel would you put on a Kistler or the CR721?

I have a monkey that insisted on the GLX CR722. The CR721 doesn't come in a GLX...IMX only. I have a Pixy on my CR721 and have had a Sol and a Conquest 50 on my CR722.

[Drew03cmc]

Nice. I appreciate it. That Kistler looks like the cat's meow though. Perhaps toss an Alphas 103 on it, spool with 10# mono and hit the creeks, when the funds free up for purchase of course.

[bigreddog]

Megabass Orochi X4 F2-54x4 Barchetta.

[tywithay]

Nice. I appreciate it. That Kistler looks like the cat's meow though. Perhaps toss an Alphas 103 on it, spool with 10# mono and hit the creeks, when the funds free up for purchase of course.

I use mine with an SS SV for wading creeks for white bass. I've used it for crappie and small bass too. Super light and very sensitive. It's a great little rod.

[RonH]

The Loomis CR722 is a great rod. It is very versatile and my favorite casting rod.

[falcon]

My all time favorite wading rod for smallmouth was the st croix 6'6 MLF. I'd look at that or the MF version depending on lure weights. Awesome rods for sure.

Pick series based on price range or consider a custom. If your interested in custom I can hook you up with my builder who does amazing work.

[Strewth]

GLoomis GLX CR722. If you want lighter, look at the GLoomis IMX CR721. They're both gr8 6 foot sticks.

+1 on both of these. Great sticks, a pity about the B-grade cork though.

[fishbone]

Shimano Chameleon travel baitcaster. 3-piece, 5' 8". Really light, nice and moderate. Throws 1/4 - 5/8 oz like a dream! Best catch was a 4.4' pickhandle barracuda on a 1/2oz MaxRap.