Help - Rigging Rod

[BreakinAnkles]

So my mom wants to get my dad a new walleye rod and reel for their anniversary and has put me in charge. Need a little help with this; I tend to focus more on bass and ice fishing so not real experienced here.

The setup would mainly be used for lindy rigging, but could get a little use as a jigging rod as well. We would like to keep the total price tag under $200.

My dad has always wanted a St. Croix rod so I’m leaning towards either an Eyecon 7’ ML or a Premier 7’ ML or Medium. I’ve also been looking at the Fenwick EliteTech as well and they seem to be quality as well. As for a good reel, I’m at a complete loss.

So, if you would be so kind, what are your recommendations for a quality rod and reel combination for rigging that comes in under $200?

Thanks for the help.

[OnAFly]

Pfeuger president for the reel. I got a couple of mine on sale for $50. I have the Fenwick EliteTech 6'3" jigging rod and love it, but I can't say much about their rigging rods.

[Eric_Kruger]

the elite tech 6'3" is a great rod, I would pair it with a shimano sahara in 1000 size. Thats my go to jig/rig rod till i build something in the 6'6"-7'0" range.

[JohnMickish]

If your dad wants a St. Croix, they make a rod specifically designed for lindy rigging. It is their 7'6" ML. I have one in their Legend Tournament line ($240), just out of the budget but IMO one of best rods out there. Get this rod for him and your dad will think it will be the best gift ever. This rod is also available in the Avid line for $190.

The Eyecon line is nice, but for a gift of this caliber, up the ante to the best there is.

[Stick in Mud]

I use the EliteTech 7'2'' ML for all of my rigging, and it works great. I think the price tag for just the rod is now $150, but you can get a combo with a Pfleuger Supreme for $160 from Reed's (at least you could a week ago...not sure if they're still available). I'm sure there are better rods/combos out there, but for the money, it's what I'd go for.

[harvey lee]

I build a few St Croix legend rods 7' in Ml with a fast tip. All of them had cedar split grips and they are awesome rods for sensitivity. As MNfishingguy posted, a bit over the $200 range.

[FisH_SLaYer24]

I agree with the posts above. For a gift of this caliber (anniversary present), it may hurt a little throwing out a few extra bills, but the look and expression on that significant other's face will make it all worth it. With that said, this season I purchased a St. Croix Walleye Tournament Series Finese Rod and I have nothing but good things to say about it. This has become my new favorite walleye/crappie rod. The rod is a 7'0" Light Action with an Extra Fast tip and it has the backbone to support it. I have this rod paired with a 1000 series Shimano Stradic Ci4. I can honestly say I can see a few more of these rods/combos in my future. The Legend Tournament Walleye Series Rods may be a little pricey, but I held one of the rigging rods in my hand and I can say you would be more than happy with this rod. Good luck on your rod choice

[BreakinAnkles]

Thanks for all the responses everyone. I can appreciate that the Legend line is going to be a top-notch rod, but to be honest I really don't think that's going to fly right now. So the better question might be this: Eyecon vs. Premier.

We're going to pick up a rod tonight so any opinions before then are appreciated.

Thanks

[JohnMickish]

Get the eyecon rigging rod, 7'6" ML.

[WollMan]

I have the Eyecon 7-6 ML XF and love it.

[Shorelunch]

My first choice would be a St. Croix Avid. Second would be the Fenwick ELITE-TECH Walleye Spinning Rods (EWS72M-F). Roughly $150. Pair with a Pflueger President, Daiwa Legalis or a Shimano Sahara for around $50.

[BreakinAnkles]

Hey thanks for all the help. We ended up getting him an Avid paired with a President. Looks and feels great! Man those rods are light.

We're going to let him choose his own line, but out of my own curiosity, what would you choose for line on a rig and jig rod like this?

[Shorelunch]

Hey thanks for all the help. We ended up getting him an Avid paired with a President. Looks and feels great! Man those rods are light.

We're going to let him choose his own line, but out of my own curiosity, what would you choose for line on a rig and jig rod like this?

Great choice!

You'll get guys saying all choices between braided, flouro or mono - it's all personal preference. My preference - 8lb Fireline or Suffix 832 tied to a small barrel swivel or uni-to-uni knot tied to a 6' mono or flouro leader.

[paceman]

my go to line is 6# Gama. Love it for walleys.

[slurpie]

Got an elite tech rigging rod 7'2" I have used it or rigging and casting cranks very nice rod. Replaced a berkley series one rod I had for seven years. Got the fen wick on sale for an even hundred. Also bought a scheel rod I have not used yet but they have a lifetime warranty over the counter no reciept needed on their rods.

[TrophyBob]

Hello Angler, hope you had sum change left over. Get him a 7' or 7 1/2' Ugly Stick. with there prices you can probably get two of them. But this is where you seperate the men from the boys. Get him medium Heavy rods. on large Walleyes you need to set the hook easier. and this length of rod gives you better leverage.