backpacking tackle question

[JasonB]

Recently I found a couple of stocked trout streams that involve 2-3 miles hikes to get to so I have started looking in to telescoping rigs for these streams(and to keep handy for backpacking trips) and started pondering whether an open face spinning reel would stand up to being strapped on to a pack(or carried inside) since the trip to the creeks are through a fair amount of brush or if a closed face spin cast would be more in order. I figure packing it in a manner that will keep the rod in working order would cover the reel, but it never hurts to ask [img]/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/smile.gif[/img]

Thanks for any insight!

Jason

[anthracitic]

I vote for putting the reel in your pack.
Not a fan of telescoping rods. Are you using ultralight tackle? A two-piece ultralight spinning rod is a pretty handy size to carry.

[JasonB]

I stick to 4lbs test line for the most part and fairly short 1 piece lightweight rods as is. I think I still have a 2 piece rod somewhere that I wasn't too wild about due to not having as solid of a feel(which was a question I forgot to ask about telescoping rigs) so I may have to look for it and see what size and length it was.

[Smokepole]

I use a rig similar to what anthracitic describes and have never had problems with durability. I usually strap it on the outside of the pack unless I know I won't be using it for a day or two. I'd go with a spinning reel, easier to cast small stuff. I know there are some here who like telescoping rods, including Patrick, he was describing his rig at the rendezvous and I forgot the specifics. Patrick, what kind of rod do you use?

[Sawtooth]

I don't like telescoping rods either, so I use a two-piece 5' ultralight rod. I also vote for an open faced ultralight spinning reel. I stuff mine in an old sock and put it in my pack. It's been riding that way for probably 10+ years and hardly has a scratch.

Do a search for this topic, and you'll find quite a few recommendations on tackle.

[Ken]

Jason- I've been eyeballing these fiberglass poles...very soft actions and great feel.

Priced well too...

http://www.troutlet.com/Scripts/prod...?idproduct=571

[Sawtooth]

Ken,

The 4'6" rod, 5 pc., looks very interesting! Good info!

[Sawtooth]

JasonB,

Sorry, forgot to tell you what rig I nearly always carry in the backcountry. Here it is...

Ugly Stik 2 pc. 5' ultralight spinning rod

Shimano AX ULS reel loaded with either 4 lb. test or 2 lb. test monofilament.

I can't say enough good things about this setup, especially the reel. It's simple, reliable, very light weight, and affordable.

[Vernon]

Jason,

My preference to this point when spin fishing has been to use a 2 piece 5 1/2' pole and an ultralight spinning reel. Normally I put the reel in the pack and wrap it in a sock. The pole gets strapped to the outside and rubber-banded at both ends. This spring I bought two packs rods of different lengths (can't remember the lengths right now). They are 4 piece and come with sleeved fabric holders that roll up in a nice tight bundle. I also bought a couple nice small spinning reels. I did look at the smallest spincast reels but they're a bit heavier. For carrying rods on the outside of your pack you can also pick up the round plastic flourescent bulb protectors at a hardware store and cut them to size.

[JasonB]

You guys are a great help! I noticed a local shop I really like had Ugly Sticks so I will head back over and see if they have a short 2 piece model. I did notice the Ugly Sticks seem to be a lot lighter than they used to be when I handled a one piece after my wife was asking what the tip was made of Barring that, those Eagle CLaw rods look handy so that is a distinct possibility as well.