Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Fishing Rods => Fishing Rods => Topic started by: Shark Hunter on May 20, 2018, 06:21:17 AM

Title: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 20, 2018, 06:21:17 AM
I just got back from my two week Vacation in Florida and had a Blast.
My son Mike, Robin and myself only caught three fish, but they were nice and I have to admit, it is more than I usually catch.
I always try to go big. Kayaking Baits on a 14 and 12/0.
This involves lots of gear. The Kayak alone is a 60lb trip back and forth to the beach.
The big reels are like Cinder Blocks on handles.
Two of the three fish were caught on surf rods.
No multiple trips to the beach. Just a chair, Surf Rod, Cooler and bait, with a few tools.
5' Blacktip Sharks and a Nice Bull red that was at least 30" long.
The way those fish peeled the drag off those big spinners was really exciting!
I thought the rod was going to break.
Three trips to the beach with the Kayak yielded one Shark. A 6' Tiger.
Anyone know of a good two piece surf rod, 10' in length that is off the shelf that doesn't cost a fortune?
My current setup is a Battle 2 8000 with a 10' Graphite two piece rod.
I know the rod isn't going to last. I have lots of Big Spinners. Fin Nor, Penn ss, and Battles.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: xjchad on May 20, 2018, 07:02:19 AM
Daron,
I love my Penn Prevail!
2 piece, 12' heavy model rated 6-12 oz.  I throw an 8 oz. Sputnick and large chunk of Mac or ray 60-80 yards.
I landed batrays over 100 lbs. And sevengills to 9' with it. Plenty of back bone and it's a perfect match for my 9500SS. And as a bonus, they can be had for around$100.
http://www.pennfishing.com/penn-rods-spinning-rods-penn-prevail/penn-prevail-surf-spinning/1363866.html#specifications
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: 1badf350 on May 20, 2018, 11:13:33 AM
I like the Penn Battalion rods. I have a couple 12' for drum fishing in OBX.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: cwillis85 on May 20, 2018, 11:39:55 AM
Also a fan of the Prevail, I have picked up 4 or more from Wally world on clearance for $25. I have never felt like quality wasn't there to fight any fish I have hooked.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 20, 2018, 03:15:16 PM
That is the same rod my Son Uses.
Sounds like a prevail is in my future.
I would buy several at $25. ;)
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: philaroman on May 20, 2018, 04:36:39 PM
good ole' Ugly BWS may be worth consideration, while they're still around...
the new ones are not Howald blanks w/ Fuji guides/seats, which I know & trust
don't know the new "Ugly Tuff" blanks/components, but suspect it's cost-cutting
to remain in the same price bracket, rather than innovation/improvement
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Rivverrat on May 20, 2018, 05:21:40 PM
Darin, always love seeing this. It is absolutely great to hear of you having a very enjoyable trip.

On another note while I know its hard sometimes to do things a certain way when family is there. How you are approaching these trips is evolving. Keep posting about this regarding your gear & your lay out once at-the beach.

My approach to fishing the river works extremely well in Texas on the beach. This in no way means my way will work for you or any one else.

One thing, after some time  I came to realize having my hands as empty as possible while on foot to my spot usually meant a little less hassle & that I was organized.  This may not hold the same same level of importance at the beach as it does busting through the Kansas under brush. I also found my military or hiking packs an essential part of my fishing. Even when traveling short distances from the truck.

I can pack up everything from all lines out to being reeled up & ready to go to another spot in less than 15 min. This includes tent, food, bait & anything else needed for 4-7 days or more fishing / camping on the sand.

Anywhooo.... keep posting your ideas & the changes your making to fishing the beach that work best for you & your situation... Jeff
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: philaroman on May 20, 2018, 07:14:07 PM
X2 on a good, big, ex-frame backpack
I do OK w/ old, US-made Kelty Super Tioga's (you can find 'em dirt-cheap)
I'd guess a MOLLE/hunting/lumberjack pack would be better,
because the frame/harness is independent & you attach whatever you need for the day(s)
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 21, 2018, 05:26:41 AM
I just know, the way I seek my Monster involves at least 4 trips to the beach with all the gear.
This is with two people. Then there is the risk of the gear getting taken, which is my biggest concern.
Whether it is on the taking to, or destination, my eyes can't be everywhere.
The place I stay is pretty friendly, but I trust no one.
Paranoia is a state of mind when I can't be watching my valuables.
It is engrained in me and I can't help it.
I can only trust the people I know.
It is Human Nature.
I don't care what it is, or what it involves. If you dig deep enough, you will find corruption.
Not on my watch. ;)
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: oc1 on May 21, 2018, 05:38:26 AM
Chile/John had a thread a few days ago about pier fishing in Alabama.  There were photos of some really nice carts.  We used to make contraptions called jetty carts because it was such a long walk out, but used large diameter wheels (bicycle size) so they would go over irregularities in the rocks.  You can buy beach carts made for sand.
https://phoenixbeachbuggys.com/ (https://phoenixbeachbuggys.com/)
-steve
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Swami805 on May 21, 2018, 05:52:23 AM
The dedicated pier rats here have those aluminum carts they sell from bass pro. I don't think they'll handle very rocky terrian though. I think there's also a attachment for kayaks that goes thru the scupper holes with bicycle tires. Lash your gear to the kayak, a good back pack, might cut it to one trip. Don't know who makes them but I've seen kayakers using them here and they look pretty sturdy. Might be worth a look
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 21, 2018, 06:54:45 AM
My Destination is over a walkway to the sand with multiple steps.
The cart is not what I want.
It might come into play at some point, but it can't carry big rods.
I'm close enough to the beach, that I can bring my bait and rods as needed.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: philaroman on May 21, 2018, 09:05:51 AM
can you get blocks of ice?
one replaces MANY bags & saves space/weight
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Rivverrat on May 21, 2018, 01:16:58 PM
Quote from: Caranx on May 21, 2018, 11:40:42 AM
Did you ever try the dual wheeled wheel barrow used for transporting cement?
It holds a lot of stuff, goes over sand and pretty cheap.

I've leased one of these for getting logs out doing tree removals.
It had a gas motor & would go up & down stairs... Jeff
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: CapeFish on May 22, 2018, 07:14:02 AM
If you are bait fishing, why not get a longer rod, say 12 or 13ft in 3 piece?  Something that can handle a 3-5 oz sinker? It will allow you to fish further out creating more opportunities.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 22, 2018, 07:33:40 AM
I'm going to just that. 2 piece 12 footer that can handle at least 6 oz.
I have an Ugly stick, but I can't cast it very well. The tip is too soft.
There are lots of options out there.
I'm not bait fishing though, I have enough friends now that provide it for me.
Big spinning Tackle has come a long way.
Especially in rod technology.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: *thomas* on May 22, 2018, 07:52:01 AM
Quote from: 1badf350 on May 20, 2018, 11:13:33 AM
I like the Penn Battalion rods. I have a couple 12' for drum fishing in OBX.

+1 On the Battalion

A friend of mine who fishes the S-Caroline beaches uses them for Blacktips. He caught a nice 4ft'er on one of our trips and the rod could handle more...

An other fishing buddy who fishes San Sebastian uses an Ocean Master and that rod is in a class of it's own. I caught a 9ft tiger on it last year, rod was mated to - the much discussed - Penn SSV 10500 and the drag was on lockdown.

BTW, on that occasion, we yaked the baits out, plenty of line on those SSV spinners.

BEWARE !!! Daiwa has relaunched the Ocean Master, but I've heard reports that they break, even when casting bait out...

Quote from: CapeFish on May 22, 2018, 07:14:02 AM
If you are bait fishing, why not get a longer rod, say 12 or 13ft in 3 piece?  Something that can handle a 3-5 oz sinker? It will allow you to fish further out creating more opportunities.

A 12 or 13 ft would be my first choice when fishing open beaches. It gives you that extra casting distance, thus, like stated above, will create more options.

Maybe it's even worth considering a three piece European rod. We mostly use 13 and 14ft three piece rods that cast around 8 oz and they are quite strong. Shimano has the Vengeance series f.i. .
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 22, 2018, 08:16:13 AM
Funny you mention Ocean Master Thomas.
That is going to be my next surf Rod.
They are all new this year. ;)
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: 1badf350 on May 22, 2018, 09:38:57 AM
The Offshore Angler Ocean Master from Bass Pro is a nice rod, I would have recommended it but I thought you were wanting to stay lower on the budget. I have around 7 of the 12' casting models in both 3-6oz and 6-12oz. IMO they are under rated, meaning the 3-6oz loads very well with 8. The 6-12 is so stiff I cant load it with 8+bait, but then I am not a big guy.
The just came out with the new generation of these rods which I have no experience with yet. All mine are the last gen rods.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: thorhammer on May 22, 2018, 10:45:44 AM
Prevail is a good price for what you get. You are correct, the Ugly has its places and I have probably have a couple dozen for other things, but casting heavy baits long is not it. Way too spongy in the tip vs. the weight of the rod. 

In that size, I throw 12' with 4-12 or 6-16 weight ranges. In the 100-125$ range, the Prevail, Beachrunner, Tsunami all do well. The Tsunami and Beachrunner are my go to drum rods, and I have caught blacktips to 5-6 feet and rays over a hundred pounds on them. No issues on the rod; I throw 20lb test on them and pull as hard as line can stand. Your casting will be limited by your preference for mono though. I get the abrasion resistance on the bar, however, if it were me I'd throw 80 lb braid with a 60lb mono shock leader vs. trying to cast 40lb mono. 50lb would be a slinky, and I'd consider 80 braid and 30 mono equal on chafing and giv ethe knob to higher strentgth castability of the braid (diameter of 20 mono). Plus, you have a spare 9500SS spool on the way to rotate out if you get some wear.

Note, I'm using 980's, that's why I'm throwing 20 mono. At night, I'm throwing 9500SS and 850SS's set as I described. I dont get to do it enough to not make a huge mess with braid in the dark on a casting reel. My 0.02. 

Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: CapeFish on May 22, 2018, 10:54:54 AM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on May 22, 2018, 07:33:40 AM
I'm going to just that. 2 piece 12 footer that can handle at least 6 oz.
I have an Ugly stick, but I can't cast it very well. The tip is too soft.
There are lots of options out there.
I'm not bait fishing though, I have enough friends now that provide it for me.
Big spinning Tackle has come a long way.
Especially in rod technology.


Sorry what I mean by bait fishing is that you are using baited hooks, not lures. Yes you need a beefy rod for a 6 oz, most casting problems come from using rods and reels not matched to the missile you want to launch
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: *thomas* on May 22, 2018, 03:34:10 PM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on May 22, 2018, 08:16:13 AM
Funny you mention Ocean Master Thomas.
That is going to be my next surf Rod.
They are all new this year. ;)

Yes, they are indeed new, but like I said, the reports I heard from them coming from shark fishermen were no good :( ...
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: festus on May 22, 2018, 03:47:24 PM
I seldom need anything that big, but when I do I use a 12' Offshore Angler PowerPlus from Bass Pro Shop.  Was $29.99 when I bought it about 10 years ago.  However this is only for throwing about 4 oz plus cut bait below dams in swift water.  Not something I'd use for artificials unless I was Shaq O'Neal.  ::)  It does me well, have thought about buying an Okuma Longitude but haven't felt the need for it.

https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/offshore-angler-power-plus-trophy-class-surf-spinning-rod   

Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Newell Nut on May 22, 2018, 04:56:40 PM
The penn carnage II is a good off the shelf one. Would be nice if you could get the Hawaiian model. They custom build them for the Hawaiian ulua fishermen and are built tough. I used one while I was there. Gave to my fishing buddy when I left.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 24, 2018, 04:50:17 AM
Quote from: 1badf350 on May 22, 2018, 09:38:57 AM
The Offshore Angler Ocean Master from Bass Pro is a nice rod, I would have recommended it but I thought you were wanting to stay lower on the budget. I have around 7 of the 12' casting models in both 3-6oz and 6-12oz. IMO they are under rated, meaning the 3-6oz loads very well with 8. The 6-12 is so stiff I cant load it with 8+bait, but then I am not a big guy.
The just came out with the new generation of these rods which I have no experience with yet. All mine are the last gen rods.

They came out with the new Ocean Masters last Month. I couldn't find one anywhere.
The next run won't be available until Sept. and that is my next planned trip.
Bass Pro Customer Service gave me the phone numbers of only two stores that had them in stock.
Concord, NC and Foxborough Mass. The NC store answered my email first, so I gave them a call.
Since these aren't available online, I had to jump through a few hoops.
I've heard nothing but good things about these rods.
They are by no means Custom, but I think they pack a lot of bang for the buck.
I have a 10 and 12 footer on the way. ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-sIh2GNzpw&feature=youtu.be
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Riy2018 on April 01, 2019, 01:30:07 AM
Im also looking for a new Surf Casting Rod. I'have tried Ugly Big Water but it too bulky. I will use Penn 500 or Penn MAg Power 980.

was looking online to choose between St Croix Mojo Surf Casting 10`6 or Century (too much money).
What is the best for money and value.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Jeri on April 03, 2019, 05:09:38 AM
Quote from: CapeFish on May 22, 2018, 10:54:54 AM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on May 22, 2018, 07:33:40 AM
I'm going to just that. 2 piece 12 footer that can handle at least 6 oz.
I have an Ugly stick, but I can't cast it very well. The tip is too soft.
There are lots of options out there.
I'm not bait fishing though, I have enough friends now that provide it for me.
Big spinning Tackle has come a long way.
Especially in rod technology.


Sorry what I mean by bait fishing is that you are using baited hooks, not lures. Yes you need a beefy rod for a 6 oz, most casting problems come from using rods and reels not matched to the missile you want to launch

We'll get him converted eventually to 'southern African' style ................ ;D

He has just made the first step away from kayak and super heavy, and enjoyed the pleasures of proper surf fishing for sharks. Next step will be a butt pad, long 14' rod and reel at the bottom, launching 6oz+ sinkers and big meaty baits into the back gutter, or even wading .....................  :)
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on April 03, 2019, 06:04:58 AM
Whatever you Say Jeri.
I'm in it for one thing and one thing only.
I will be slinging baits until my arms fall off.
This can be done, but it will be Kentucky Style only. ;)
No Copying or Duplicating, My own way from my Own Trials, Reels and Equipment. ;D
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on April 03, 2019, 06:11:32 AM
Quote from: Riy2018 on April 01, 2019, 01:30:07 AM
Im also looking for a new Surf Casting Rod. I'have tried Ugly Big Water but it too bulky. I will use Penn 500 or Penn MAg Power 980.

was looking online to choose between St Croix Mojo Surf Casting 10`6 or Century (too much money).
What is the best for money and value.

Riley,
The New Ocean Master Surf Rods from Bass Pro are the best things going.
Get one of those and I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: CapeFish on April 03, 2019, 06:27:44 AM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on April 03, 2019, 06:04:58 AM
Whatever you Say Jeri.
I'm in it for one thing and one thing only.
I will be slinging baits until my arms fall off.
This can be done, but it will be Kentucky Style only. ;)
No Copying or Duplicating, My own way from my Own Trials, Reels and Equipment. ;D

what's wrong with copying or using what works? there's no patents on fishing styles and techniques, only more fun to be had  ;)
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Jeri on April 03, 2019, 07:27:41 AM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on April 03, 2019, 06:04:58 AM
Whatever you Say Jeri.
I'm in it for one thing and one thing only.
I will be slinging baits until my arms fall off.
This can be done, but it will be Kentucky Style only. ;)
No Copying or Duplicating, My own way from my Own Trials, Reels and Equipment. ;D


We are all hopefully only in it for one thing - the pure pleasure of fishing .............  :)

Though, have found that by looking at all sorts of different answers to similar problems, there evolves a unique solution to your local circumstances. I often look to see how others around the world overcome problems, and adapt to suit my local needs. Recently found an enhancement to our surf casting rods, from a small water spinning environment, scaled it up a little, and found 5-10% extra distance from our previous design on medium weight rods. Lent the prototype rod to one of our club's ladies in the National Trials recently, and she came in 2nd overall - she appreciated the extra distance the rod gave her.

Looking forward to see how 'Kentucky style' develops. Might learn something new to 'borrow'.

There is a quaint expression down here, that I had to learn when I moved down - "steal with your eyes!"
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Bryan Young on April 03, 2019, 02:12:41 PM
Quote from: Jeri on April 03, 2019, 07:27:41 AM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on April 03, 2019, 06:04:58 AM
Whatever you Say Jeri.
I'm in it for one thing and one thing only.
I will be slinging baits until my arms fall off.
This can be done, but it will be Kentucky Style only. ;)
No Copying or Duplicating, My own way from my Own Trials, Reels and Equipment. ;D


We are all hopefully only in it for one thing - the pure pleasure of fishing .............  :)

Though, have found that by looking at all sorts of different answers to similar problems, there evolves a unique solution to your local circumstances. I often look to see how others around the world overcome problems, and adapt to suit my local needs. Recently found an enhancement to our surf casting rods, from a small water spinning environment, scaled it up a little, and found 5-10% extra distance from our previous design on medium weight rods. Lent the prototype rod to one of our club's ladies in the National Trials recently, and she came in 2nd overall - she appreciated the extra distance the rod gave her.

Looking forward to see how 'Kentucky style' develops. Might learn something new to 'borrow'.

There is a quaint expression down here, that I had to learn when I moved down - "steal with your eyes!"
Jeri,

Would you mind attaching photos or a link of the set up in your part of the world?
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Jeri on April 04, 2019, 01:00:33 AM
This is our local competitive surf angling association's web site:  https://nsaa.com.na/

Some of the pictures sliding across the main page show some of what we do, though equally it is not all wading out chest deep in the cold Atlantic, plenty of action with feet still on dry sand.

The rods generally are built for fixed spool reels (spinners)and braid these days (change in competition rules allowing braid as main line). The rods are mostly 14-15' long - a lot just 1 piece construction, varying in strength from just 5oz and bait casting performance right up to 10oz and huge baits for casting. Because the competitions are judged on weight (derived from length to weight charts), sharks are the primary target of the competitors, though occasionally a fish of the same family as Drum are caught up to 20kgs. Because of the dynamics of fishing for potentially larger fish and sharks, the surf rods are nearly all built with the reel seat just 8" up from the bottom, and reel control during casting is done with the left hand - this configuration of rod and reel, allows the very effective use of boat fishing rod belts to anchor the base of the surf rod, allowing two hands now to operate rod and reel - essential when connected to an upset Copper shark heading for Brazil and weighing potentially up to 200kgs (450lbs) - though most top out at about 100kgs (220lbs).


This is what is generally known as the southern African surf fishing style, it is very rare that we see folks fishing with the reels high up the rods, and never after those anglers have caught even a moderate shark of 10-20kgs, as placing the long rod handle between the legs soon discourages that practice, as well as losing the angler a lot of control and power over the fish.

We have just had our 3 day National Selection trials to pick 8 teams to fish against South Africa in our coming summer, which will have 7 members in each team ranging from under 16's to over 60's, and ladies teams as well. Pretty much everyone on the beach (I was manager for our Lady anglers) were using 14' long rods, and all casting their own baits and fighting their own fish - no outside assistance, even for young lads of no more than 11 years old, all looking to engage with sharks.


The single biggest essence of the rods, is the length to gain distance when casting in the surf.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Bryan Young on April 04, 2019, 02:31:06 PM
Thank you Jeri.  It appears that the butt of the rod is about 18" from the reel seat...nothing more.  I presume then that most of the casting force is from above the reels seat, like the Australia open face reel (I cannot remember the name, but I think they recently went out of business) that swiveled when casting.  This differs from the US and likely UK style of casting were we have a longer butt section and the reel seat is the pivot point when we snap the butt section towards us to get more tip action when casting.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: 1badf350 on April 04, 2019, 02:46:35 PM
Bryan I think you are talking about Alvey
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: CapeFish on April 04, 2019, 03:16:16 PM
Quote from: Bryan Young on April 04, 2019, 02:31:06 PM
Thank you Jeri.  It appears that the butt of the rod is about 18" from the reel seat...nothing more.  I presume then that most of the casting force is from above the reels seat, like the Australia open face reel (I cannot remember the name, but I think they recently went out of business) that swiveled when casting.  This differs from the US and likely UK style of casting were we have a longer butt section and the reel seat is the pivot point when we snap the butt section towards us to get more tip action when casting.

You can get plenty of tip action with the rod at the bottom, you just snap  the same you would do with the reel at the top. The swivel point is where you want to make it, however high up the rod you want to move your upper hand, so it's not limited by the reel position. So you can use as wide a grip as you want. There are a number of youtube videos showing casting multipliers and spinners this way. In fact near all competition casters use the reel at the bottom so this must say something. And the power it gives you to work a fish is exceptional. I actually don't even want to imagine catching any of the big sharks I have landed with the butt between my legs or under my arm, standing like that for two or three hours cannot be fun, let alone trying to run after the fish with a long butt. It works really well.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Jeri on April 05, 2019, 06:18:40 AM
Quote from: Bryan Young on April 04, 2019, 02:31:06 PM
Thank you Jeri.  It appears that the butt of the rod is about 18" from the reel seat...nothing more.  I presume then that most of the casting force is from above the reels seat, like the Australia open face reel (I cannot remember the name, but I think they recently went out of business) that swiveled when casting.  This differs from the US and likely UK style of casting were we have a longer butt section and the reel seat is the pivot point when we snap the butt section towards us to get more tip action when casting.


As a rod builder, we generally leave about 8" below the reel seat, just for convenience, and clearance from the butt pad - when reeling in. The 'reel up' or 'reel down' argument prevails and continues, although Cape Fish is right about it being a preference for tournament casts that are looking purely for distance. However, what we have found is that with the reel down, especially with 'spinners', is that the weight of the reel helps considerably with getting balance and power into the cast, as gravity is assisting with the mass of the reel. Pushing that same weight upwards as in a 'reel up' situation, actually detracts power from the caster - wasting physical energy pushing the reel up.


We tried this experiment with some lady casters/fishers, and they all found that it was easier to cast with the reel down, and they got much better distances - because the tackle becomes more balanced.


On the matter of Avley Sidecast reels, have built rods for them, either 'reel up' and 'reel down', it again is a personal preference of the angler.


As previously said, lots of different solutions to similar problems around the world, not all sort out one's own particular problem locally.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Riy2018 on April 10, 2019, 01:50:32 PM

Riley,
The New Ocean Master Surf Rods from Bass Pro are the best things going.
Get one of those and I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
[/quote]

Thank you. Unfortunately the Ocean Master Surf Rods 10F out of stock online. I will drive to CT or NJ stores.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 21, 2019, 06:26:06 AM
I did a thorough testing of the new Ocean Master Rods the past two weeks.
Only spinning casts from the surf. No Senators or Kayaks this time.
I must say, I am pleasantly surprised with these rods.
They are robust.
I didn't catch anything over four feet, but it hossed them in like they were panfish.
I caught three sharpnose and my boy caught a Blacktip.
It was a joy, grabbing a rod, cooler, chair, tackle bag and bait and making one single trip to the beach and back.
I threw three and four ounce sputnicks with bait weighing just the same.
My direction is changing and I can't wait to try this again.
I brought the 10 and 11 footer this time. I'm taking the 11 and 12 next trip.
The bigger rods can really sling it out there.
I couldn't believe the difference just between the 10' and 11'.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47829845611_12ccbc099f_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2fSysJx)IMG_0026 (https://flic.kr/p/2fSysJx) by Daron Dyer (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152091480@N03/), on Flickr
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Alto Mare on May 21, 2019, 11:16:43 AM
Thanks for the report Daron! the little guys are just as much fun, I'm sure you had a great time. ;)

Welcome back!

Sal
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Bill B on May 22, 2019, 02:29:22 AM
Good job Darin!  Good to see some toothy critters on the sand.....could you describe how you rigged your terminal tackle....did you pin your bait and sling it with the lead?  Bill
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Jeri on May 22, 2019, 06:56:46 AM
Hi Daron,

Welcome to the surf casting shark anglers club ...............  :)

Often wondered why folks drag all that excess gear down to the beach to have some good sport with sharks - just a rod and reel and some bait is all that is really needed, leave the kayak, trolley, etc at home.

Seeing as you are now looking at longer rods, you should see an appreciable increase in distances cast; though up to a limit. It is why perhaps the local surf casting scene has long since been pretty confined to 14' and 15' - especially with fixed spool reels (spinners) and braid. The problem comes when the sharks start to get too big/heavy, then the very long rods do start to act as a lever against the angler. Often see that down here with sharks over 100lbs, they really do need a lot more work to get them beached with the long rods.

Personally, I find that 14'-6" is a very comfortable length, gives very good distance and still has sufficient pulling power to handle sub-100lb sharks. A small tip, as your casting starts to develop - look at a Breakaway Canon, or as they are known down here 'Bionic Finger', you can put a lot more power through the mechanical release than through your biological finger.

Tight Lines.

Cheers from sunny Africa.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Dominick on May 22, 2019, 04:38:48 PM
Jeri, thanks for that info.  I just ordered one from a Canadian company.  I had never heard of one and it sure looks like a finger saver.  Cheers from Sunny California, Dominick
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Shark Hunter on May 23, 2019, 06:49:23 AM
I had my bionic fingers with me, but did not use them.
I do not like the fact that the only way you can attach these is with tape to the rod.
I have no problem putting tape on my finger.
It seemed to work best for me.
Even when I forgot my tape. Eight strand 100 lb braid is pretty Robust.
It will not cut when using the proper technique.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: oc1 on May 23, 2019, 07:37:30 AM
Why not a big fat wind-on mono leader with FG knot to the braid?  Or, a wind-on furled leader?
-steve
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: CapeFish on May 23, 2019, 07:58:15 AM
you can have the bionic finger permanently attached, bind it on like an eye. I have found that I reach the max of being able to hold down the line when I hit 4oz. I use a leather 1 finger glove for that. Anything heavier e.g. 60z sinkers and baits I find I end up doing lob casts if I use my finger. With a bionic finger you can give it horns. That's why a multiplier is so great for casting big baits, no need for extra gadgets, the grinder has many other advantages though. When I use long rods and struggle bringing in big sharks I just straight stick it to get it over the lip then it fights directly on the drag, just have to be careful the drag is not to tight. It gives you a breather as well. The last big one I caught was on the dropping tide and it was the only way I could get it over the bank into the shore break and then it took two of us to tail it onto the beach and to get it back had to lift it by the pec fins and tail.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Jeri on May 23, 2019, 11:47:20 AM
Bionic Fingers were originally developed over 20 years ago, deliberately because you could put more power through the cast - with nylon. Since then they have found infinite success down in southern Africa, now that folks have mostly changed over to fixed spool and braid and braid leader, especially for the shark guys launching out big sinkers and big baits.

I initially though they were a gimmick, until I really started to power cast with braid rods, now I would be bothered to use a rod without one, as they really do give you a huge increase in power through the rod. To the point now, on all our custom rods, we just price for building then straight onto the rods - whipped and resin in place. Even with lighter surf spinning rod - 12' and 3oz we use them as they are just so effective, that said we are getting about 140 metres out of those 'little' rods.
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: RowdyW on May 23, 2019, 01:30:57 PM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on May 23, 2019, 06:49:23 AM
I had my bionic fingers with me, but did not use them.
I do not like the fact that the only way you can attach these is with tape to the rod.
I have no problem putting tape on my finger.
It seemed to work best for me.
Even when I forgot my tape. Eight strand 100 lb braid is pretty Robust.
It will not cut when using the proper technique.
Daron, try using ss small fuel line clamps or plastic ty-wraps to attach the finger. A couple of wraps of tape will protect the rod from marking with the clamps.      Rudy
Title: Re: 2 piece 10' surf rod
Post by: Rivverrat on May 25, 2019, 01:13:55 PM
Quote from: Shark Hunter on May 23, 2019, 06:49:23 AM

Even when I forgot my tape. Eight strand 100 lb braid is pretty Robust.
It will not cut when using the proper technique.

  I have found when using braid 60 & over stuff said about it cutting your fingers during a cast hasn't held true true for me.

I guess if you work a desk all day or have surgeons hands,  soft as a baby's butt it might be a problem.

                                           ... Jeff