Ditch Jigging w/ Arra 1205

[Saltheart]

Its the best rod for jigging the canal IMO. I use a conventional reel (BG7000CL). At one time I could esily cast 150 yards with it. If I were a spinner man I might go to the 1209 but even then it becomes a much more physical activity to cast that beast. You're young , you might like the extra distance you can get using the 1209 with a big spinner , that's a judgement call for you. The 1205 is easy to cast , you can totally control the jig and there is no fish that you will hook into where the rod will be your limitation.

I also Jig 2 to 4 OZ and use 3 where I can but 4 is no issue for the rod. Many throw 5 with it. On the other hand you won't like a 1209 for throwing 2 and maybe not for 3 . Most guys using the 1209 use the 4 as their bread and butter jig while I use the 3. They go to 6 on the 1209 but I sometimes do 4 , seldom 5 , never 6. No need the way I do it. Depends how you jig. I work all the angles and run the jigs along very specific predetermined routes but I am limited to the max distance I can cast it. With a 1209 , you will get more distance with a spinner but then you have a lot of line out and controling the jig gets to be tougher. As usual there's plus and minuses to each technique.

So anyway , go use it , you will like it.

[JamesJet]

That 1205 is my preferred plugging rod and its launches 3oz. I also do some light jigging with it - up to 3, slower tide areas/stages with sluggos. I never thought of throwing 4s. I really like the 1209 for heavier stuff as it just lifts the jig so effortlessly - plus it has the backbone to throw the big shads.

If you want to try the 1209 I have a Rainshadow in conventional and an allstar in spinning. Just let me know. One thing is that its not all about the cast IMO its how it handles the jig so you may want to meet down at the ditch.

I ride with both on my bike, but if I only had one it would easily be the 1205. My only complaint is the rod has some reverb after the cast. I heard if you get it custom wrapped the guides can be aligned better and it really ups performance.