Trolling rods. Which ones do I choose?

I have been thinking a lot about which size trolling rods should a fisherman decide to use. Should they go with the 14′ or the 16’s? That is the question.

Here’s where we can start. The 14’s are a little more stout basically because they aren’t as long (obviously) and easier to manage for beginners or guides wanting clients to have an easier time getting used to spider rigging. Also you really don’t need a net with the 14’s so you can have more fun just swinging fish in the boat. When it’s time to get down and dirty when the stakes are high you definitely want the longer rods. The 16’s will give you a bigger spread and put your baits further from the boat and the sound of the trolling motor.  As we are learning more about fish behavior with the Livescope technology  we now know that fish are very easily spooked from the boat and motor noises. So, if you are a weekend warrior who likes to relax and swing some dinner in the boat then by all means go with the 14’s. If you are or thinking about getting serious into Crappie fishing or fishing tournaments you may want to go big or go home and dive into the longer 16 footers. The guys that take this seriously swear by the longer rods as far as getting more bites  especially in shallower water when the fish are spooky. Also in clear water it is important to have the longer rods due to the fact that the fish can see further and are a lot more on edge. If you are always fishing deeper or stained water you would be fine with the 14′ rods. As with most things in Crappie fishing it comes down to personal preference. So if you like and are comfortable with longer rods why not go for more bites right? Hope this helps a little. If you have any input for this topic or other ideas please let us know at [email protected].  Have a great Memorial day and lets honor those fallen soldiers that sacrificed everything so we could have our freedoms. Thanks and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Andy Lehman.