Pike/bass rod question

[RH1]

Hey guys ive got the itch for a new rod.
Im thinking about a 7wt for smallmouth and pike in mostly the local rivers and creeks.
Is my thought process correct thinking that I will want a fast action for those larger flies and streamers?
Any feedback or recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks
Ron

 

[tomgamber]

I have one of these for those kinds of things. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09VJZZ89N?plpRedirect=mhFallback&ref=clp_cat_related_p_2&th=1

 

[RH1]

I have a moonshine in a 3wt that I love..
Thanks for the reply

 

[Solitariolupo]

I think an 8wt would be better for your larger flies. And for pike.

 

[TimMurphy]

Dear RH1,

A 7 weight would be fine for smallmouth bass but may be a little light for pike especially if you want to fish larger streamers or bulky flies.

One thing you will absolutely need to do is test cast the rod with several lines. With today's modern rods and lines the line weight on the rod does not necessarily translate to the marked weight of the fly line particularly if you are using sink-tip or lines labeled as pike or specified for larger bulky flies. You may have a perfect 7 weight rod for a true 7 weight line, but it will not cast a 235-grain sink-tip labeled as a 7-weight line because it's a damned 9 weight line and it will feel like you are casting a dog chain.

I don't mean to confuse you, but I want to make sure that you have the opportunity to try what you are buying. Dropping several hundred $'s on a poorly matched outfit is easily done and not fun.

Regards,

Tim Murphy 🙂

 

[jifigz]

Get an 8 weight for smallies and pike. There are many fine brands/rods to choose from that run the gamut of price.

 

[TheDuke44]

Dear RH1,

A 7 weight would be fine for smallmouth bass but may be a little light for pike especially if you want to fish larger streamers or bulky flies.

One thing you will absolutely need to do is test cast the rod with several lines. With today's modern rods and lines the line weight on the rod does not necessarily translate to the marked weight of the fly line particularly if you are using sink-tip or lines labeled as pike or specified for larger bulky flies. You may have a perfect 7 weight rod for a true 7 weight line, but it will not cast a 235-grain sink-tip labeled as a 7-weight line because it's a damned 9 weight line and it will feel like you are casting a dog chain.

I don't mean to confuse you, but I want to make sure that you have the opportunity to try what you are buying. Dropping several hundred $'s on a poorly matched outfit is easily done and not fun.

Regards,

Tim Murphy 🙂

Tim is spot on - the marked weight rating can really vary from brand to brand and line to line. Your best bet is to try out a few rods and lines to be sure you get one that works for you.

 

[Bamboozle]

As someone who has fished 6-7 & 8 wts. for smallmouth, if you have an itch (and budget) for just one rod for both species, buy an 8wt.

If itches and cash allow, buy the 8wt and grab a 6wt or 7wt for the smallies.