Ask JD: Beer, Steelie rods, river regs, bassin’ stuff & more!
January 16, 2008
Well, I had a bunch more great questions from readers in the mailbag this week. Here’s this week’s edition of Ask JD:
Question: JD, OK…gotta ask your opinion. I know you are moving more towards longer rods these days for drift fishing - I think we exchanged emails about this awhile back. I am thinking about a radical change in my setup for drift fishing light weight and small baits for local Steelies.
Currently using an IMX 1082S. At 9′ it feels a little forward heavy with my 2500 Stradic on there. This means I have to lift that forward weight whenever I set the hook. Thinking I may go shorter (it is also true that I like fishing shorter rods when drifting light bait). So…wondering your opinion…what do you think of the GLoomis HSR 9000S (2 piece version) as a drift rod? Appreciate your thoughts. Derek.
Answer: Hey D, the GLoomis HSR 9000S is a super sweet rod — I use the casting version (HSR 9000C) for pulling plugs & the spinning model is one bad-ass instrument for side-drifting from the drift boat. From the bank, it’s tad short for my tastes, but truly the right stick is the one you feel most comfortable and confident with. The other thing you can do is add one of those weighted butt caps to your existing stick. Adds a little extra weight, but will give you better balance.
Question: JD, Great online steelhead video from the American!!!!!!! I’m beginning to notice myself checking your site almost everyday! Am I developing an addiction?! Curious as to what technique you used to catch that steelhead…side drifting roe? Also, can a jet boat be taken up the American and then drifted down using a trolling motor? I’m thinking of giving the American a try. Keep those interesting articles coming!
Frank, Yuba City
Answer: Frank…well…let’s just say that there are other online addictions that can get you into more hot water at work or with the spouse than this site! As far as those American River steelies go, they were taken on side-drifted roe and pink Fish Pill puffballls. The American is super low right now, so a sled really isn’t a good idea. Plus, the upper half of the river above Ancil Hoffman Park is currently closed to the use of all motors (including electrics). The lower half of the river is okay for power boats, but there’s a 5 mph speed limit, so you’d never be able to get over the riffles without breaking the law. It’s really best for a drifter!
Question: Hey JD, I’m thinking about investing in a fly rod to use on the river I fish during the spring, summer, and fall. Usually 9 out of 10 fish I catch on the river are smallmouth, so I was wondering if you knew of anything out there or could recommend a decent rod and reel combo for a beginner…maybe something under $100. Hope you had a great Christmas and a happy new year. -Josh
Answer:Josh, There are several companies that make decent and reasonably-priced intro combos that usually come with rod, reel, line and maybe even a tippet and a few flies. I’d probably go with a 6- or 7-weight unless the smallies you’re catching are the size of watermelons. Call Mad River Outfitters in Arcata, CA (707-826-7201). They’re great guys and they have a starter kit for about the same $$ you’re talking about and can ship it to your right away.
Question: J-Dizzle, got any thoughts on micro brews?, Dan in Porterville
Answer:Gotta go with the Steelhead Pale Ale, of course!
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