by dahlberg » Wed Jan 08, 2014 1:03 pm
hi reel,
that's somewhat of a tall order, but certainly not impossible. I would lean towards the casting side since it's easier to jig with something designed for casting than cast with a rod designed specifically for jigging.
Generally I'd go for something with a high stiffness to weight ratio, personally I'd use a 7 1/2' blank and 12" butt which would give me around 75 inches " blade length" from reel to tip; enough to cast, but not too long to be uncomfortable to jig while palming the reel with my thumb on thumbar. I'd select something with a progressive taper but having solid holdout around 18" ahead of the reel and capable of tossing 4 oz lures.
Not just considering price range, but there are so many options, plus, what you may want to do with the handle in terms of diameter, to better fit the reel is another story!.
I'd suggest checking out the Mudhole catalog online, or even giving the mudhole guys a call at the shop (toll free 866 790 7637) to get some suggestions in regards to the many options in action, power, performance and price! They built me a couple of bonefish rods recently based on what I described over the phone and absolutely nailed it.
best
L
Larry Dahlberg
The Hunt For Big Fish