Advice needed before buying trolling rods

[Polar Eyes]

I personally like the Cabela's Depthmaster brand. In particular, the DM-PB-86M.

http://www.cabelas.com/product/fishi...Tz_stype%3DGNU

This model is an 8'6" medium action designed for Planer Boards. However, it's a good all around action, not only for boards, but also for dipsey's/Jets or even flat lining. What I particularly like about these rods is that they are teloscopic. When "collapsed", they are not more than 6- 6 1/2' long so they fit in my rod lockers easier. I can rig my lures at home, collapse the rod, stick it in my locker, and when I get to the lake and start setting lines, all I have to do is pull the rod out to full length and let out line. I have a smaller boat (18'), so rod storage space is limited and at a premium. With two piece rods, if you try to leave the rod rigged and then take it apart and put it in your locker, you'll have a mess after they've slammed around on the ride out (experience talking here!!!). I think they are $45 new, but I've never paid more than $30 for one as I just swing by the store and check the Bargain Cave, there is almost always one or two in there. Many times, these are combo returns where the Depthmaster reel malfunctioned. Since the rod was used, they can't just slam a new reel on it and call it good, they have to sell it used. The Depthmaster reels don't have the most reliable counters on them and that's what cause them to get returned.

My only exception is for leadcore. I have a 9' lighter action (downrigger design?) to absorb the shock of the no-stretch characteristics of the leadcore. However, I don't use LC much on Erie, so I don't leave it rigged.

Just my 2 cents...Hope this helps!!!