My favorite rod is St.Croix's 7' premier graphite ML (medium light). This is my northern rod that I use to throw spinner baits, buzz baits whatever. I have landed pike over 20lbs with this rod. To me 7' allows you to land trophy fish with fairly light tackle and still get the fish in quickly. Too light of tackle is one of the main reasons trophy fish don't make it. A guy that brags about that twenty minute fight with a pike is a fool. I also use a 6' M a little stiffer rod for smallies. It is very accurate and fast. I match these rods with Shimano Spirex 4000 (huge line capacity 200yds 10lb) and the 2000 with 6lb. I use Berkely Trilene XL clear. I don't like braided lines. Just too many hassles. I take spare spools for both reels. PS I also fish all my lures barbless.

Posted by Dave on February 21, 2000 at 21:39