There is something special about feeling a crappie bite on your rod tip. It’s not violent like a bass. It is not as forceful than a catfish.
It’s a soft tap. It is a delicate touch that require precision and sensitivity. Lots of folks will simply pick up a generic medium action rod.
That’s never going to cut it. What you want are rods with the ability to turn small bite into an obvious message. Lew’s has made a name for themself because of this subtlety.
They know how critical sensitivity can be when targeting crappies. And their entire crappie line are designed around this concept. It is not because they’re trying to sell you something.
They do this because they understands it. When selecting a Lew’s crappie rod, consider what type of fishing you do. Do you like to cast out in open water, or do you prefer dropping straight down from a boat?
Maybe you like to keep your bait near the bottom while floating it around. For each style there is an ideal rod profile. A vertical jigging rod have no action.
And a casting rod hide the bite when fished vertically. Knowing these differences will save you both frustration and money. What was once a hazy hobby become a precise sport.
Complete Guide To Lews Crappie Rods
Why Sensitivity Matters for Crappie Fishing
A lot of anglers use Lew’s Crappie Master series as their starting rod. It is a more affordable option with great sensitivity. They’re normaly a little more moderate action.
This means that you’ll get some bend at the tip, but the tip doesn’t fold back on itself. That’s important when you are setting into a fish that has a soft mouth. You don’t want to rip the hook out, you want to guide it home.
These guys normally has a standard length handle which is good for boat fishing. Enough leverage for short fights but not so long that it gets in your way in close quarters. It is a good, solid workhorse for fun days on the water.
Choosing Between Casting and Vertical Jigging Rods
The next tier up brings us to the Lew’s CCR series. Here, you really start to notice an increase in build quality. The blanks are more sensitive with a better feel.
The guides also runs much smoother. These rods tend to have slightly faster actions as well compared to those in the Master series. This provides added control when you’re trying to pitch jigs around cover.
Because of this faster action, you’ll be able to get a better feel for what the jig is sitting on. That tactile sense help you keep your bait in the strike zone longer. After spending more time on the water, anglers will notice less fatigue with these rods.
They feels better balanced in your hand throughout the day. It’s a slight upgrade but one that makes a noticeable difference.
Lew’s Crappie Master Series
The Lew’s Crappie Pro series is as good as it gets for the serious tournament angler.
They feature top-of-the-line components and materials that ensure greatest durability with greatest sensitivity. You will often find that the rod has a responsive tip and more stiffness in the mid-section. It provides responsiveness for an aggressive hook set if necessary, while also providing the backbone to horse the fish around heavy cover.
The handles are ergonomically designed to reduce strain during repeated jigging and casting motions. For fishing in competitive scenarios looking for those trophy crappie, this equipment could of worth the investment. You’ll notice the difference when you get bit.
Lew’s CCR Series
A big part of this is the material they’re made from. Their top-of-the-line models are made of high-modulus graphite, which allow for better vibration transmission than lesser blank material. You can feel the water movement and those subtle taps that indicates a strike.
The less expensive ones will dull those signals. They are made with heavier materials that tend to deaden the sensation of what you’re feeling. You gain confidence in higher end stuff.
You go from guesswork to knowing.
Lew’s Crappie Pro Series
Taking care of the rods is essential and very easy. Clean the rod off each time you use it.
This is especially important when fishing in saltwater or other brackish water. The salt will destroy the finish on the blank and eventually rust the guides. Also keep the rods out of the way from extreme heat or cold where they may warp.
Inspect the guides periodically as well. A cracked guide can slice your line and wreck a fight. Take care of your equipment and it lasts longer and stays more sensitive.
Graphite Materials and Sensitivity
Rod Maintenance and Care
In conclusion, no matter your budget or skill level as an angler, there is a Lew’s crappie rod for you. Just because you can’t afford an $800 rod doesn’t mean you can’t go fishing. What you need is one that fits your style.
Begin with more moderate action rod overall. As you become more skilled, step up into faster actions. It should of being about making a connection.
That tap feels good. Set the hook. Wind it in.
The process flows smoothly when you have the correct rod.
Final Selection Advice
