BASS Rule Change: Rod Length Expanded to 10 Footers

[abkeenan]

10 minutes ago, fishinwrench said:

Why does there need to be a rule governing the length of a rod anyway ? What techniques were they trying to nix by regulating rod length in the first place?  Doodlesocking?

Should there be a rule governing reel gear ratios or line diameter ?

Restrictions on rod length began in the West, and they were the catalyst for the development of the popular and effective “flippin’” technique. Dee Thomas of California, the “Father of Flippin’,” began winning tournaments in that state by “dipping” jigs in stands of tules with a 14-foot surf casting rod. When competitors complained, Thomas developed the flipping presentation, which delivered the lures to the same spots with a 7 1/2-foot rod.

The 8-foot maximum was added to B.A.S.S. rules by B.A.S.S. founder Ray Scott and Tournament Director Harold Sharp in 1976. Back then, competitors were paired by random draw and took turns controlling the boat. There were no pro anglers and co-anglers; everyone was fishing for the same prize, two to a boat.

Scott and Sharp believed a rod longer than 8 feet gave the angler operating the boat a distinct advantage over the other.

[Old plug]

A rod that lng might be good behind docks abd over cables but I would not betvon it. my point with the cabe pole was to drop baits straight down in places. I bange banged agwinst th dock and overhang. I am actually thinking about a short 5 1/2 fr rod for my drop shot fshing. I get very close to docks and 6 -7 ft rods tend to get in the way when your almost hard against the dock.

[abkeenan]

In the article is only says that a couple of guys (Skeet Reese) have been asking for this rule change for a few years. Would like to hear if there are any Elite guys against the rule change who see themselves at a disadvantage now. Greg Hackney with a 10 foot flippin' stick? Could get ugly for the competition.

[dtrs5kprs]

Wonder how far I can chuck a Ned with about a 9' spin rod?

[abkeenan]

1 minute ago, dtrs5kprs said:

Wonder how far I can chuck a Ned with about a 9' spin rod?

I would imagine that rod manufacturer's are currently scrambling at the drawing board as we speak. I-Cast 2017 (or perhaps Classic release stuff) should be very interesting to see what what all the rod makers come up with as far as lengths/tapers/actions/technique specific models for these new bass specific 8-10 footers. Fuji and other guide manufactures also have to be absolutely loving this as well.

[Browntrout]

What unfair disadvantage? These guys have the money to buy any rod they want and spend more time on the water than we spend working and with our families. They have opportunity to develop any technique they want.

[abkeenan]

6 minutes ago, Browntrout said:

What unfair disadvantage? These guys have the money to buy any rod they want and spend more time on the water than we spend working and with our families. They have opportunity to develop any technique they want.

Well, every Elite angler has their own strengths and weaknesses. Guys that are finesse fisherman might think that the shallow flippers are getting a leg up now. Not saying any of the Elite guys would complain that the new length limit rule is unfair but would like to hear from the field and their thoughts on the subject.

[Quillback]

My guess is that they will also use those long rods to sling big cranks like 10 XD's.  With the right set up you could launch one of those things a mile.

[Jerry Rapp]

I have always thought that to determine the best fisherman in any competition( any species), that all legal means should be allowed.  Be it trolling, live bait, fly fishing numerous rods in use according to state law, etc. 

[Old plug]

1 hour ago, Jerry Rapp said:

I have always thought that to determine the best fisherman in any competition( any species), that all legal means should be allowed.  Be it trolling, live bait, fly fishing numerous rods in use according to state law, etc. 

That is so true. all this crap from lineto rod is nothing but  for human fish. RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PLACE and RIGHT WAY. I keep saying that but nobody either believes it or does not understand what I am trying to say. The fisherman that gets those things together willbethe successful one. you do notneed a box full offancy lures. I know so many people that have alotof lures but only ise afew 90% of the time.