Need help with Reel selection

I picked up a few (5) sweet little Med/Hvy trigger sticks made by St. Croix that are 5 ft. long and

have a nice fast tip. I am going to use them for vertical jigging. I was wondering if you folks could help

me with the selection of reels for these little guys. Something small, don’t need large capacity for line,

need a great drag. I have some Shimano Bantam Crestfires, but need more suggestions, give me your

opinions.

What the heck are you jigging with heavy sticks?

Actually, as I stated in my original post they are Medium Heavy with a fast tip. I have used this same rod in a 6 foot length for vertical jigging 1/4 to 1/2 jigs in the river, and found it to be great. The shorter rod, I feel, will give me a quicker hook set. I need all the speed on those hook sets that I can get, being an old duffer has slowed my reflexes a significant amount. When one thinks of a Medium heavy rod, one thinks stiff, but actually these rods have a very nice flex, yet ample backbone, and with the fast tip, seem to have a very nice tip snap to send that jig home. If you haven’t tried this type of rod, you maybe should….you may just like it.

Good Fishin’

TBO/MN

PS…Did you have a reel recommendation?

I use two open face reels and like them both very much. Diawa’s Tournament Series SS and Shimano’s Spirex, both in a front drag style. I’m sure there are lots out there in all types of prices these are my to choices and they have done me well for the last6 to 8 years…..ec

These are trigger sticks…..hence I am look for input on “Level wind” baitcaster reels, but thanks for your recommendations for spinning reels.

Good Fishin’

TBO/MN

If money is not object, check out the Shimano Curado. Great reels. Otherwise I’d suggest a Abu, 4600 C3.

I use left handed Quatum’s with a flippin switch. 501’s I think. Okay reel but they wear out quick. The only low profile lefties I can find.

I would highly recommend a flippin switch since you can operate it with one hand.

I like Garcia casting reels. I have others but they just seem the most solid. If lightweight feel and comfort is your goal, look for one of the machined aluminum housing models. Preferably a 3600. But, if line lengthdepth is useful to you, get a Daiwa with the line counter on it. There’s plenty of guys around here that like those. Me? I’ve never really jigged with a caster before so the insight for possible issues is pretty weak. Good luck, there’s lots of choices!