Best set up for rod and reel for fishing trip!

[180+]

I am going on a fly in fishing trip in june in northern alberta targetting northerns and walleye!! Got to watch our weight going in !! Anybody got any ideas on a good rod/reel combination and line to take that will do for both!! I just want some ideas on a set up that will do for walleye and some big early season pike!!

[nicemustang]

Well if you want a medium action rod that will handle a big pike if you're lucky enough to catch one, then try the shimano voltaeus. It's unbreakable rod for under $50. Then pair that with a shimano side stab 2500 (if they still make them??) and you're set.

I'd use power pro braid in moss green, 30 LB test. Strong, but thin/light and you can catch a lot of big pike. I'd maybe tie on a 18" wire leader if you only trying for big pike in the shallows as well.

Sounds fun. Where are you going and how much is it?? LOL :D

[Geezle]

Well if you want a medium action rod that will handle a big pike if you're lucky enough to catch one, then try the shimano voltaeus. It's unbreakable rod for under $50. Then pair that with a shimano side stab 2500 (if they still make them??) and you're set.

I'd use power pro braid in moss green, 30 LB test. Strong, but thin/light and you can catch a lot of big pike. I'd maybe tie on a 18" wire leader if you only trying for big pike in the shallows as well.

Sounds fun. Where are you going and how much is it?? LOL :D

I've still seen Sidestab reels in several stores...shouldn't be hard to find one. Great reel for the price :)

[DarkAisling]

I've seen one Sidestab 2500 in Calgary in the last week, at BPS. I haven't seen any at TFH or WSS.

I use this combo:
http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_100394_100003002_100000000_100003000_100-3-2 in a 7' MH when fishing for walleye with the chance for decent sized pike. It hasn't let me down. I use 12lb test with a wire leader. I can cast a good distance from shore, and the rod has enough backbone to handle the big guys :)

[Wes_G]

Why go with just 1 rod, weight is that big of an issue? what does an additional reel and rod weigh? I assume your gear will be in a tube already so practically no weight at all. My bag for an entire season at the fishig lodge weights around 50lbs (around 30 of which is fishing gear) and I take in 4 rods and reels. what is your weight limit?.

I wont suggest any makes and models. But for pike I would take a baitcasting set up 7' MH or H, with your favorite line. For walleye I would go 6' ML-M with some 6 or 8lb fluoro.

If you think you are still need to be restricted to just 1 rod and reel then get a 7' M-MH spinning rod with matching reel and 2 spools. 1 with light line for walleye and heavy line for pike. Although unless you are chucking huge lures for pike, you can still catch bike pike on 8 or 10lb line.

[180+]

Weight is kinda an issue set at 60 pounds!! We are flying into tapawingo lodge on bistcho lake!! We went last year and I took 3 rods all for different set ups!! A huge pike destroyed my medium light set up, and my two others were a little light for the 15 plus pound pike we were hammering!! This time we are going in june so maybe a monster awaits!! I was just wondering if there is rod or reel combo that will suit this type of fishing!! Any help is sure appreciated and I will check out the above!!:wave:

[DaveFish]

Bring a side stab 2500, and go reel doctor and ask if they any other spools, I have 3 spools for my side stab /w 8, 12 and 20.

[Wes_G]

I would still bring in 2 rods irregardless. The weight of another rod and reel are neglegible when your limit is 60 lbs. Leave out a pair of pants and 2 t shirts and thats probably twice the weight of an additional set up right there. I have seen guests come in for 3 days with a heavier bags then I have for the whole season, dont ask me what the hell it is they got in there though, I am still scratching my head about that. I also find guests bring in huge tackleboxes and use 5 lures out of it. I cut the amount of tackle I bring for a season in almost half.

[strat37]

Hello

A few points to give you some flexibility:

1. Line- I would go 30 lb; look around and see what is best suited for your reel, fire line etc are good starters but you want to get the thin line to get the extra distance in the casts, or as mentioned earlier get multiple reels (bait caster etc);

2. Leaders- everyone talks about wire leaders; what they don;t tell yoou is after a few of the bigger fish they will kink and start to tear. Spend the extra money and get "Titanium". You will find that one will last you the entire trip and remain straight as the day you put it on;

3. Lures- I would recommend the "Grandma" lures; these are exceptional for "multiple use" You can catch huge pike and walleye with the same lure. The 10" to 12" are good size. Don't be fooled by getting it too big, Walleye will hammer these lures. The only draw back is where to buy them:
http://grandmalures.net/default.aspx
I believe they are available in Calgary or online of course.

4. Keep your gear and fishing "simple stupid"; you will be surprised how far a few good crank baits and multiple casting will go.

Anyway good luck, don't forget to post your pics!

[180+]

Got the 2500 sidestab last night at the outdoorsale at the mayfield for $30 you guys were right one heck of a deal!! Now I gotta get a couple of rods!!