Rod problem

[Castinski]

I picked up a Trinidad (14) the other day and paired it with an okuma 8'6"XXH. The combo handles blades like a dream, except for one problem. The "trigger" of the rod under the reel rubs my hand in the worst way. I've noticed this on some other rods I have too, but none have given me problems to this extent. My question is this... Has anyone cut off this trigger and found it more comfortable? My plan is to cut it off as close to the rod as possible and then file/sand it smooth. If it's still a problem, then I will tape over the top of it. Anybody see an issue with this modification?

[JimBuck]

If your planning on palming the reel I guess I don't see much need for the trigger. Throughout a day of fishing, I tend to switch up my grip about 3 different ways depending on what I'm doing. One of which requires my middle finger around the trigger. I do have a few other baitcasting setups for catfishing that don't have a trigger, but I'm also not casting all day with those.

If it works for you. I'd do it.

[chief]

Ya gotta do what ya gotta do.

However, take a tip from an inveterate tinkerer who has made his share of mistakes: Use your rig a couple more times to determine if it really, truly "bothers" you. If it really bothers you, and you have to change something--go for it.

[HugoBox]

Maybe insted of taking away the trigger you want to build/shim out the handle so its one big fat thing under the reel. Then at least you could make it smooth with that rod wrap tape. 50-Pig added some wine corks to one of his rods so he may be able to elaborate. Anytime you can "fix" something without chopping it up I'd say its a good thing.

As and aside, how does the XXH work when you're tossing non-hubcap size lures? Could you / would you throw an Eagle Tail or smaller single blade bucktails on it? Just please don't tell anyone that I throw anything but twins 10's!

I'm prolly going to check into the Okuma cause I dig the telescoping idea for fitting it inside my truck for trips when I'm not in my boat.

[Castinski]

Hugo,

I was throwing double 8's with it last night. It might be a little too stiff for small blades though. I'd look at the 9'3" xh for that application. I was deciding between the xxh an that xh, but thornes didn't have any 9'3"s in stock.

I went with tape on the handle for now. I'll give this a week or so before I start cutting.