I've been gearing up for a while to try to catch the monsters.
Currently my small rig is and Avet 50W on a 6'8"custom 130lb rod. I like it.
I also have a new Tiagra 80W that I am looking to match with a new rod.
So far I have gotten conflicting advice on the length and whether rollers are needed or not.
I plan on looking for something in the 7'8" to 9' range unless enough people chime into say otherwise.
But as for rollers, I have no idea. Are they necessary to land 12' and bigger sharks?
Will sand get in them and become a major pain in the ass?
Can the line (130lb braid) get caught in them? Are the optional and just not worth all the extra cost?
Please any advice is appreciated.
You do not need rollers. The guides you can get today have materials that are slick, hard, and will let braid or mono pass through without any issues.
Look into getting a roller tip. that is where most of the pressure will be and where you will get the most benefit from a roller. You can also get a roller stripper and tip, then have guides between.
Sand in the rollers really should not be an issue but in that case, they are super easy to clean.
When it comes to rod length, it is personal preference. Different rods have different actions. I personally fish 7' 80-130LB, 60-130LB, and for an old school sit my butt in the sand rod, the gator glass 9'6" 80-130LB.
With the stand up gear, it is nice to have some action at the top of the rod and a good back bone at the bottom, then you dont give up any leverage to the fish.
Some guys like to fish a stand up 9' unlimited rod, good to keep the line above the weeds and waves but looks like an uncomfortable fight. all personal preference.
Thanks alot for the info. I think I have a pretty good idea of what I want now.
I called Barrett rods yesterday. If I can't find what I need from the classifieds here or on CL, then I will probably order one from him.