Do you use different rod brands and why? 2024
Justbass11 reply :
Ok, I am one to stay with the same rod and reel setups from the same company, just the way I am. I used Falcon rods for years but saw St.Croix on sale and bought 2 of them and so far I like them. But, I have read many post on here talking about using different rod brands for different types of fishing. I have always done fishing on golf courses and wasn't to worried about what brand rod I used. But now that I plan to be a boat owner one day soon, I am trying to get a few rods lined up. So now I'm wanting to get rods that are in my price range which is between $100 to $150ish. That all being said, I will be looking for a frog-jig-flipping rod that will be in the H 7'4" to 7'6" range. Am I asking for to much in a rod? and for those that use different brands rods, what company should I be looking at??? And if I need to get 2 rods please don't twist my arm to hard......Any thoughts would be great....Thanks
ABW reply :
There's nothing wrong with that. I've used thir teen fishing, Powell, and Gloomis. I'll leave the rod selection up to you, but I know for sure that someone is going to say a Dobyns 735... I honestly don't have much experience with that company though.
Evan K reply :
I have experience with 13 and St Croix, and I like them both very much.
I will point out though, that the recommendations here won't be completely honest, since the site administrator has banned anyone from mentioning at least one rod company.
So research around the web well and just because a brand isn't mentioned here doesn't mean no one uses it! Tackle Tour seems to be about the best resource for in-depth tackle reviews.
Raul reply :
Kunan
Silstar
Berkely
GLoomis
Shimano
Kistler
St Croix
GraphiteLeader
Those are the brands I have owned, now I only own Berkley, GLoomis, Shimano and GL.
FloridaFishinFool reply :
On 12/30/2015 at 9:01 AM, Justbass11 said:Ok, I am one to stay with the same rod and reel setups from the same company, just the way I am.
For me, I absolutely do not stay with one rod (or reel) company. No way! Too many great rods (and reels) out there for me to limit myself to just one brand.
In my world brand is not an issue, but a mere curiosity. I hold the rod and feel its characteristics. I either like it or I don't. Brand names are irrelevant.
If I had to try and produce a list of rod brands I own it would be well past 30 or more different brand names and custom rods...
In my opinion sticking with just one brand is extremely limiting. Be more open to trying others!
For me, quite often when I find a rod I like, I find only one of them. And presently I have google and ebay searches programmed for about 5 different rods I would love to just find a second one like it... brand names are just a way to identify that which I seek.
new2BC4bass reply :
On 12/30/2015 at 9:01 AM, Justbass11 said:Ok, I am one to stay with the same rod and reel setups from the same company, just the way I am. I used Falcon rods for years but saw St.Croix on sale and bought 2 of them and so far I like them. But, I have read many post on here talking about using different rod brands for different types of fishing. I have always done fishing on golf courses and wasn't to worried about what brand rod I used. But now that I plan to be a boat owner one day soon, I am trying to get a few rods lined up. So now I'm wanting to get rods that are in my price range which is between $100 to $150ish. That all being said, I will be looking for a frog-jig-flipping rod that will be in the H 7'4" to 7'6" range. Am I asking for to much in a rod? and for those that use different brands rods, what company should I be looking at??? And if I need to get 2 rods please don't twist my arm to hard......Any thoughts would be great....Thanks
I assume this is what you really want to know about. Can't help there.
Lots of rods in this price range. Some I have used in that price range and like are Fenwick HMG, Fenwick Aetos on sale, Tatula on sale, that unmentionable company, Falcon Original, Hurricane Redbone, Daiwa, Shimano. I'd also look at some of the Okumas. Seem to give good value.
I'm like FFF. Why limit yourself to one brand of rod or reel? Reels: Pinnacle, Okuma, 13, Daiwa, Shimano, Abu, BPS, Pflueger. Rods: Abu, Berkley, Daiwa, Batson, Shimano, Tec Spec, Fewick, Falcon, Cabela's, BPS, Quantum. I have one technique specific rod.....for cranking. Versatility is the name of the game.
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
I pretty much go for any brand/product that piques my interest. No one brands pays me or gives me free stuff to use them so no loyalties. If there is a good sale on a rod and it has features I look for Ill pick it up even if not needed at that time but someday could use it. I have Quantum Okuma Shimano Croix with me on a given outing. There just so many good brands now each person going to have their particular best but unless its an orange rod you mostly cant go wrong.
On using one rod for 3 applications, sure can be done. Your specific needs though down in FL going to be different than mine here in IL and being Ive never fished in FL just seen videos exactly what to get cant say. I do think I would go heavier all around. Where Im mostly M to MH Id up to Heavy power rods in 7'6" range cause I prefer longer rods. So yeah a $150 7'6", Heavy power, fast action rod I would use for those 3 presentations.
oh also coming up jan and feb have been the best months for me to find a great score on a rod/reel with clearance sale happening so be on the look out. Be ready to purchase on a moments notice. I snoozed on a powell max 3d rod and while I was researching a model for about 30 minutes went back to buy it GONE.
FloridaFishinFool reply :
This past week I was visiting mom in north Florida for Christmas and I hit probably a dozen pawn shops and scored some really nice rods and good deals. I think I left town with 4 new to me used rods.
Now I have some right handed reels (from the rods I bought) to overhaul and throw on ebay to recoup some of the money I spent on getting these rods, some of which I had never seen before. Brand is not important. Feel and quality is- and this can come from anywhere at any time. Don't just rely on new rods! Consider pawn shops, thrift stores, garage sales, and more and find those awesome used rods too!
Toeshots reply :
I don't have the will power to stick to one brand. I'd always be wondering what else is out there. Also, some brands are better at certain things than others so I don't want to limit myself to one manufacturer.
I currently carry St. Croix, Fenwick and BPS rods. Reels are Shimano, Lews, Pflueger, and BPS. I truly enjoy the variety and have been satisfied with all brands. Helps keep things interesting and, to a certain degree, keeps the bait monkey at bay.
tomustang reply :
There's not a single brand out there that has every rod I like, that's why I have 3 different brands. The one has most of my needs So I have the majority of theirs
Fishes in trees reply :
Similar to many other guys here, I own many different brands of rods, can't recall all of them right now. My last few purchases have been Fenwick AETOS rods for a couple of reasons. The independent tackle store I frequent in Liberty, MO - Rogers - nearly always has them on sale for 20% off. List varies from rod to rod but for the most part it is within $10 of $180 to start. That gets the AETOS brand somewhere around reasonable, IMO. Secondly, I've been a little sloppy the last few years and I've broken (mostly my fault) a few Fenwick Rods (AETOS & HMG) and Fenwick customer service has always been nice to me, that that counts for a lot in my book. Makes me loyal.
Delaware Valley Tackle reply :
Brands may have certain models that stand out. Even when it comes to bare blanks I have favorites from different makers.
smalljaw67 reply :
I'm not brand loyal but I do have several rods of a few different brands. The reason I have different brands is for 2 reasons, one is just because I like to try new things and the other is because there may not be the right length and power in the brand that I want so I have to look for it in another brand.
Bluebasser86 reply :
I use the rod company that makes the rod that I feel best suits what I intend to do with that rod.
new2BC4bass reply :
On 12/30/2015 at 1:37 PM, tomustang said:There's not a single brand out there that has every rod I like, that's why I have 3 different brands. The one has most of my needs So I have the majority of theirs
Gee. Wonder what that brand could be. 
Mike L reply :
Fishing rods and reels to me are like a pair of pants...
Try them on,
Check the length,
Feel good all over?
Is it the style I'm looking for?
Can I afford it?
Put it back on the rack or buy it.
Mike
Jake the Cake reply :
On 12/30/2015 at 10:27 PM, Mike L said:Fishing rods and reels to me are like a pair of pants...
Try them on,
Check the length,
Feel good all over?
Is it the style I'm looking for?
Can I afford it?
Put it back on the rack or buy it.
Mike
Couldn't have put it better. And just like my jeans, every rod I own was probably bought for $30 or less or is a hand-me-down, lol.
tander reply :
I am probably in the minority but I guess I am brand loyal. I use Falcon rods and Lew's reels on all my baitcasting gear, My theory, no matter which combo I pick up, it is basically going to feel the same. Too old to change.
stkbassn reply :
I just buy the rod that I like for what I need it for. I have Fenwick, Powell, Loomis, Dobyns, Jackall. All different rods and work for the purpose I need. Each is capable of multiple applications. If you're looking to stay under $150 you have quite a few good choices available in today's rod market. Powell Diesel, Powell Inferno, Dobyns Fury, 13..all great rods. I'm sure there are others in that range but those are the one's that come to mind for my liking.
Firefish Alumacraft reply :
I use rods that I get for a good price and what I intend to use them for Abu, Ugly Stick,
5fishlimit reply :
I am in no way brand loyal, and try to buy based off of specific needs. I have rods from Duckett, Loomis, St. Croix, Daiwa, Shimano, BPS, and Major Craft.
RB 77 reply :
Heck yes! Life is too short not to! I do mostly use Shimano and Loomis stuff though. I have some Falcons I like also. Batson and Calstar for the salty stuff. Just like reels I have tried a bunch of different brands and go back to the ones I like the most. I do have some odds and ends here and there as well.
Mosster47 reply :
No matter what rod company it is they will have some rods you like and some you don't regardless of price or model.
The way you fish makes a huge difference too. Like for instance the way I fish a spinnerbait only a rod with a 14" handle is comfortable to me. You could give me a Loomis NRX with a 16" handle for spinnerbait and I'd hate it.
Fish as much as you can and you'll know what you need after awhile. The brand won't matter. The price might matter, but the brand won't.
buzzed bait reply :
LOL, my current rod list (with a couple of them just recently purchased):
Dobyns
Berkley
Megabass
St Croix
Daiwa
Lucky Craft
Powell
In all, i've owned a number of other brands. each rod though serves a specific purpose.....
Turkey sandwich reply :
Find a tackle shop with a very large selction (cabelas comes to mind) and handle them. I like St Croix primarily, but I also have Abu rods that I like and wouldn't mind owning Loomis, Dobyns, Powell, etc, either. (I have no idea which brands were banned from the forum)
St Croix just updated their Mojo series blanks and I may be considering them for some of my next rod purchases in that price range. The SCIII blank is awesome, and I really dig it on my Avid X and Rage rods. Other things to consider are your handle pans guide preferences. Also, mind that one manufacturer's MH or fast actions are another manufacturer's heavy and extra fast actions.
ww2farmer reply :
Yes.............no one is paying me to exclusively use their rods, so until that happens I spread it around. As of right now I have custom rods built on MHX and Batson blanks, as well as Berkley, Abu Garcia, Fenwick, BPS, Cabela's and Gander Mtn. rods.
Catt reply :
Do you use different rod brands?
Yes
Why?
Cause I wanna! 
MIbassyaker reply :
I don't own or make use of a ton of different rods -- I count 10 currently in the rack to my right, 3 of which I'm not using anymore, just haven't gotten rid of. Right now I see Shimano, St. Croix, Cabela's, No8, Fenwick, Berkley, Shakespeare in there....when I decide I need a new one, the brand I end up buying depends mostly on timing and chance -- it will come down to what brand has a particular kind of rod I need and can find at that time that looks/feels good, especially if I can get a model on sale that would normally be above my price range.
Fishinthefish reply :
The problem is I love NRXs but nrx casting rods dont have a ml for when the bass or walleye im hunting want little bitty baits. So i have dobyns extreme championship ml rods for that. But i dont like the back bone in nrxs for large treble hook rods so i use st croix bass tournament rods for thosem its honestly all preference.
soflabasser reply :
I get rods more based on what I will use them for and how they preform than for just getting a rod since it is well known brand.For example my second favorite lure rod is worth less than $20 yet it has caught me lots of large bass.
tomustang reply :
On 12/31/2015 at 7:02 AM, Fishinthefish said:The problem is I love NRXs but nrx casting rods dont have a ml for when the bass or walleye im hunting want little bitty baits. So i have dobyns extreme championship ml rods for that. But i dont like the back bone in nrxs for large treble hook rods so i use st croix bass tournament rods for thosem its honestly all preference.
What's wrong with the 822 DSR or the slightly weaker SYR?
Fishinthefish reply :
On 12/31/2015 at 2:53 PM, tomustang said:What's wrong with the 822 DSR or the slightly weaker SYR?
I only use casting rods for the most part especially from the nrx line. and also do a lot of bank fishing and don't like using anything under 7ft. I prefer 7'4 and up but finding a ml rod that length is well difficult
Bankbeater reply :
I look for the rod that will fill my need. Brand doesn't come into the picture.
tomustang reply :
On 12/31/2015 at 8:33 PM, Fishinthefish said:I only use casting rods for the most part especially from the nrx line. and also do a lot of bank fishing and don't like using anything under 7ft. I prefer 7'4 and up but finding a ml rod that length is well difficult
legend Elite 7'6MLXF can fit that bill, You might be able to get the blank and turn it into a casting rod.
rawjuice reply :
Unless youre sponsored by a company, there is no need to stick with only one, i feel you just limit yourself at that point.
SMITTY0045 reply :
Besides on my reels (I love my Revos), I really am not brand loyal at all. I am more concerned about finding the right length and power for a certain technique and then seeing who has a rod that fits that
kickerfish1 reply :
Yes, for many of the reasons stated in this thread.
-I am not sponsored so I spend my money where I choose
-I have the attention span of a 2 year old and get bored with one brand easily
-Closeout prices and big sales make it intriguing to try new brands and models
-I prefer to match rods and reels aesthetically
-Too many good manufacturers in the marketplace. If this wasn't true there would only be a few companies left in business
-Unless you see if the grass is greener you will never know what you might be missing
Now I could probably figure a 3 or 5 brand rotation that I could use but I just don't see it happening. As far as reels go I am more grounded to Shimano and Daiwa.
Murrica reply :
My OCD want me to have matching rods and reels. I don't though just for the simple fact I can find the same feel in my Abu Veracity in other rod brands that I have tried in the med/mod. Same with my frog rod that is a Cabelas Tournament ZX it just loads and feels right. That is why I have always found it hard to ask which brand and which power is right for which situation sure its a great guideline to follow but it doesn't always stand true what 1 likes and what another likes are 2 different things. One day when I pick up a rod and reel sponsor everything will match .
Grantman83 reply :
All different brands though I do have my favorites. I just can't help myself with trying new stuff. Right now my favorites are the lews custom speed sticks...they are awesome
Big Bait Fishing reply :
i use two brands of blanks , Phenix for my spinning and baitcasting , and St. Croix for my swimbait rod ... have'nt needed to look elsewhere for blanks , St. Croix makes the absolute best blanks for throwing big swimbaits ! one of these days i might even add a Legend Elite custom for another swimbait rod ...
blckshirt98 reply :
I'll buy/use what I can find on sale. I don't have to worry about sponsor nor have a specific brand loyalty, though for spinning reels I am partial to Shimanos. I will however stick to manufacturers with stellar reputations and reviews for customer service and quality. "Buy cheap, buy twice" applies.
tholmes reply :
Although all of my baitcasters are the same brand, I'm all over the map with rod brands. I have ABU, Berkeley, Fenwick, Quantum, BPS, and several others. Even an Ugly Stik. They all suit me for their intended purpose and that's all that matters.
Tom
BrianinMD reply :
I buy what feels good to me for the purpose I am buying it for, no single brand will over that. Currently have Dobyns, Falcon, Abu, Shimano, St. Croix. Reels are the same way. It is a matter of finding what best works for you, for what you want it to do.
I do get a kick out of the "Brand x makes the best rods for whatever technique", while its great they work for you that doesn't mean it will be good for anyone else.
BassNBarry reply :
On 12/30/2015 at 10:43 PM, tander said:I am probably in the minority but I guess I am brand loyal. I use Falcon rods and Lew's reels on all my baitcasting gear, My theory, no matter which combo I pick up, it is basically going to feel the same. Too old to change.
I keep it simple for the kind of fishing I do, and prefer a quality all-around rod. Use Falcon Cara 7' MH rods and Lew's Tournament Pros and new TPG reels; use St. Croix and Abu spinning reel on my 1 Finesse rig. I also like consistency on combos, but more importantly, these rods do a terrific job for what I want them to do. Lots of folks can make a strong case for their fave rods. For me, it's a case of finding something I like for how I fish then, staying with that rod/combo until there is a compelling reason to try something else.
WIGuide reply :
I fall into the minority here. I'm trying to get all my rods switched over to St. Croix's. Since power and action aren't a standard across the industry, it makes it easier for me to buy a rod sight unseen if I stay within one brand. (I live in the middle of nowhere so getting my hands on any specific rod can be impossible.) I've tired other brands and have been let down by their performance, but I've fell in love with every Croix I've bought and when I bought them for a specific purpose they've always excelled. Their factory is also only about 2 hours from my home so if I need to handle one of their rods before I buy I can do that as well as just taking my rod there if it needs to be serviced.
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