Rod Advice Needed

[Mike H]

I'm looking to purchase a new drift rod for steelhead. I'm looking for a top end rod ($ not an issue) that can take a some abuse. I'm a bank angler that doesn't let tough access to spots stop me. That means bushwackin' through nasty stuff and not having to worry about my rod bustin'. I'm looking at a casting rod rated for 8-12 line.

Here's the advise I need.... I need your opinons on which brand or model to purchase. I've been looking at a Loomis rod (STR1024C) in the GL3 model. Is this a reliable rod? Is it sensitive enough? Is it too flimsy? What about a slightly longer rod (9') and then I could get an IMX? I'm a little worried if I go too expensive that the rod will be too delicate. What about Lamiglas? I can't find a upper end rod rated for 8-12 line. Other brands?

Any suggestions will be appreciated. If you have any ideas on what makes a good drift rod please let me know. Thanks in advance.

Mike H

[Jigman]

The Loomis 1143 is an excellent drift rod, it's 9 1/2 feet rated 6-12. Nicest drift rod I've ever used....comes in GL3 only.

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Fish the best....Rainbow Jigs!

[First Bite]

Mike H
I have the STR1024C GL3 model and it has been a great rod for me. I matched it with the Curado and it has been flawless. The rod is great for drift fishing for Steelhead because it is so sensitive. I've also landed Chinook over 40 pounds with the same outfit, so you don't have to worry about babying the rod.
Mark

[Snagly]

I find the IMX 1084 9' drift rod (8-12lb line, I believe) an extremely sensitive rod. It's so light in my hand I've got to think it's more fragile than the GL3 1024 you're considering.

I also had a bad experience with the 1084 with "only" a 15lb buck on the line -- fish got below me 30 yards in heavy current and I really, really had to put a bend in the rod to move it back upstream against the current. (As often happens, the hook pulled at the end leading me to consider this a "small steelhead, delicate presentation" rod and use it accordingly. When I went to BC in Sept, it stayed home.)

Yeah, I know the Loomis warranty means I can really lean into the fish (esp as I was using 10lb line) but when you're in the middle of nowhere, you don't want to be FedExing your rod around the US and waiting for a replacement to show up.

I have read on other BB's that many steelheaders have had no problems with their 1084's so maybe I'm just a wimp. I sure wouldn't want to hook a King on it, though (or bushwhack).

[This message has been edited by Snagly (edited 01-18-2001).]

[Mikie]

Hey Mike H . I use the 1025 S Model Loomis rods , bushwacken that is , on the lower alsea between barclay's and tidewater. I use my GL3 for drifting bait & my GL2 for fishing bobber's. These rod's are rated 8 to 17 # and take a lot of abuse , that is fish .SEE YA MIKIE.

[Mikie]

Hey Mike H . I use the 1025 S Model Loomis rods , bushwacken that is , on the lower alsea between barclay's and tidewater. I use my GL3 for drifting bait & my GL2 for fishing bobber's. These rod's are rated 8 to 17 # and take a lot of abuse , that is fish .SEE YA MIKIE.

[drifter]

Mike: I have used several of the rods mentioned above for drift fishing from the bank. My 2 cents as follows:

If you want backbone for both steelhead and chinook, I agree with "stlhrd" that the 1024c can handle both fish.

But if you really want sensitivity, try the 1082c. I had a very well known Oregon guide recommend this rod. I had always thought of it as too small for most winter steelhead fishing. I WAS WRONG. This rod has plenty of backbone and is more sensitive than the 1024c. We tried both rods side-by-side for several hours. A clear difference.

If you can afford it, get the IMX. You can get a good price from a custom builder or an e-bay. Yes, I know it seems light, but worth it when the BITE IS LIGHT. http://www.ifish.net/forum/images/graemlins/cool.gif

Good fishing, Drifter.

[TH]

The IMX ST 1084c is my favorite steelhead drift rod... plenty of backbone to handle the biggest steelies in the water, and even and accidental chinook. (I have a client that landed a #33 pound chinook on the Sixes a few weeks ago w/ his IMX ST 1084c and said it wasn't a problem)

The IMX is very sensitive, but, the thin wall design is not as strong as the GL3. The GL3 is a very durable, and exteremly sensitive rod.

I like the IMX ST 1082c/s for side drifting, but really don't care for the moderate action in a drift fishing situation.

My first choice would be the IMX ST 1084c and then the GL3 ST 1024c. http://www.ifish.net/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Let me know if I can help.

TH

www.thcustomrods.com (http://www.thcustomrods.com)

[Pilar]

Mike H, I love my Loomis 1024C, I own a GL2 and a GL3. I wouldn't use anything else. Sensitive, strong and a lot of fun. I have caught the majority of my steelhead with this rod and a few spring chinook on the Sandy as well. I drift a slinker with a hook and yarn, maybe some bait too.

This same rod has landed 4 to 5' tarpon, 10# + redfish, Jack Cravelle, Permit and a number of other fishes that pull real hard. Maybe I'll fly line a Tuna with one of em this summer. (JK)

I landed a 4' sturgeon with the GL2 in Astoria last summer on 10# line. So I don't buy the not tough enough BS. It's all about the guy using the rod. Some guys could bust a 2 x 4 with guides on it!

The bend is your friend!

[This message has been edited by Pilar (edited 01-19-2001).]

[Master Baiter]

Hey Mike, I think that the IMX 1025c is the most universal rod for salmon and steelhead. It has good back-bone if you happen upon something of size with a sensitive tip. I use mine for steelhead, springers and some fall runs. The GL3 is pretty close to the same quality as IMX.

Just my $.02 though.

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Keep your tip up and don't pull too hard! {;-)>

[Osprey]

1st choice is 1143 http://www.ifish.net/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif
a distant second would be 1084....Os

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Row quietly and fish a Cataraft
Release all Wild Fish!!-----<'))>><

"Just Say No To Sovereign Nations!"

Ban All Nets!!!

[Richter]

If money is not a problem, I'd have to agree with Master Baiter, go with the IMX 1025C.

Rich

[Timber Man]

1143 it is without a doubt one of the most versatile rods you can buy... http://www.ifish.net/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gifSensitive and lots of backbone for a 6-12..TM

[Master Baiter]

Also forgot to mention that I have the GL2 1025c too. Big difference, the GL2 is much whippier than the GL3 and IMX. Some hookset force is sacrificed with the GL2. My new rule of thumb is GL3 at the least.

MB

[TH]

The IMX is a very delicate rod... the thin wall design isn't as strong as the thicker GL3 or GL2, but you do get a lighter rod.

The GL3 ST 1024c has long been a favorite drift rod... and is much stronger than the IMX material.

The IMX ST 1082c is a very light rod... a wonderful side drift rod, but for drift fishing I like a rod that is a little more responsive. (Fast or extra fast action)

If you are fishing tight spaces, and smaller rivers, I would go w/ the ST 1024c... a very reliable steelhead rod.

TH
www.thcustomrods.com (http://www.thcustomrods.com)

[Mike H]

Thanks everyone for the comments thus far. Keep them coming!

The reason I'm shying away from a longer rod (9' or 9'6") is because I find a shorter rod to be more effective when casting in tight quarters. I often fish brushy streams where it's difficult the bring the whole rod back before you cast. Maybe 6" or 1' won't make a difference. Any thoughts? A downside to a shorter rod is, of course, less line control.

I really like the ideas regarding the 1082C and the 1143C. How well do these rods fish spinners which I throw about 10% of the time?

The reason I'm shying away from the IMX's is because I'm worried they're too delicate. I think I'd be more comfortable scrambling down a steep slope with a little tougher rod (GL3).

Please keep the comments coming. I find them all very helpful.

Mike H