Rod and leaders setups

[MuskyRookie]

I am looking for advice on rod setups and also the proper leader choice for each application. I have 3 rods, a 6-2 Heavy St.Croix, and 6-8 Extra Heavy Shimano Compre and a 7-6 Heavy Shimano Compre. I think the 6-2 s/b strictly for jerkbaits, the 6-8 a good all around rod and the 7-6 for bucktails and spinnerbaits and/or trolling crankbaits. Am I way off on this?

As for leaders, I am not sure when to use a swivel, florocarbon and which one to use for bucktails, cranks and jerkbaits. I am hoping an experienced musky hunter can give me a quick breakdown on these.

I appreciate any feedback and I am sure I am not the only one out there with these questions.

[cjac]

Hi,

Many of us passed several long winter days at work posting on the subject of leaders! Flourocarbon leaders are a popular option, while others still prefer wire. Do a search on "leaders" and/or "flourocarbon" on this forum and you'll find all kinds of info on types, lure matching to the leader, etc.

Here's one of them about the flouros....

Leaders

Your set-ups are definitely enough to get you going, and rod length can depend on preference, your height, etc. You'll learn by trial and error what rods cast what lures best for you. A lot of guys are going to longer rods with a little more give, to help load the rod while casting and to maintain a load/pressure while playing a fish. Again, browse thru some past posts on rod selection and you'll get enough info to give you the head spins! Go about 1 page back and there's a post about rookie muskie questions, great replies on lures, rods/reels.

Good luck!

Chris

[Lals]

Regarding rods, it seems like you have a very good set up already but here is my input: Regarding Rods -- I use 3 rod types -- the St. Croix 7'6" MH is a great all around rod. I throw vitually every lure imaginable with it with the exception of small baits. I especially like the longer handle on these rods as they alow you to put the rod handle between your elbow and the side of your chest which cuts down on fatigue (especially when working jerk/glider baits) and provides for stronger hooksets -- at least for me. 2) St. Croix 8' MH is my preferred bucktail rod and it has a handle like the 7'6". For the small stuff, I use a St Croix Bass Flippin Stick.