Salmon trolling rod recommendation

Went to HI tackle today and was thankful to have such a great store nearby. Unfortunately, they carry mostly graphite rods, and very few composite rods, the Phoenix Abyss being one of the nice composites. The popular versions of Lamiglass and Abyss are out, which is somewhat surprising for a store so well stocked.

The Phoenix Abyss 8ft medium power (PSX-805) is one piece, so a little more challenging for stowage. It would also be stiffer compared to the Lamiglass X-11. But it looks indestructible.

I also checked out the Shimano Talora and Ugly Stik Bigwater at other stores. I think those are solid options (especially the 7 year warranty on the Ugly Stik) but I haven’t tried them out.

They have a few Phenix Abyss 805 at Bodega Tackle in Petaluma. Was just checking them out today. Sweet rod. Might have to get one myself

I found out at Dick’s that if you buy Lamiglass Classic, you can purchase a 2 or 3 year warranty that covers anything (except theft or loss). The 2 years is $20. You can buy it within the 90 day return window too. And if you return the rod, the warranty is returnable too. Pretty good if you think the rod may accidentally break!!

Update:

I went to Dick’s to check the Lamiglass Classic (now called Battle Glass) in 15-30lb. I think it’s medium high power. Too stiff, but well built. Not a fan of cork handles. Ugly gray color (sorry y’all gray color lovers). Composite construction (fiberglass) which I like as the tip is more durable (but less snappy and hence less sensitive, which is ok for DR).

Ran into Tedski and had a small funeral for his net, RIP.

Also checked Shimano Talora in 9ft light power. Quality construction, super lightweight, but made of graphite, which is a show stopper for me. Also doesn’t bend all the way (medium fast action).

Finally found the Ugly Stik Bigwater in 9ft light. Two pieces. Excellent bend all the way, yet with a strong backbone. Rated 5-20lb - the perfect range. Feels great in the hand. Light too. Quality foam handle. Black color. Single piece stainless steel guides (looks a little no frills but probably more durable). 7 years warranty (!!!) and $64 from some store in the middle of nowhere MI (first time in my life that I’m paying $40 for shipping a rod). I’m gonna keep it even if I have to redo the guides. Love this rod! Let’s see if works

I checked the Phoenix Abyss and it’s a beautiful rod, high end for sure, , and made of fiberglass. Feels super durable. Great components. But it has a few cons: the power is medium, not light, so it doesn’t bend much. The lightest power is medium (I prefer light) for the 8+ft rod, and it’s one piece (I prefer 2 piece). I ordered it. Maybe I’ll keep it. As far as I know they don’t make light power 8ft+ rods.

I forgot there is a very good cheap rod and excellent trolling rod.  It's Eagle Claw's Starfire, $40, avail in 7'6" or 8'6".  I was on a party boat once and this one guy used the rod and caught 6 salmon, the only one in the boat to catch salmon that day .....



I would use these, but its two pieces and I already convinced myself I have no skill for a two pieces lol.

I would use these, but its two pieces and I already convinced myself I have no skill for a two pieces lol.

Update:

I checked the Phoenix Abyss and it’s a beautiful rod, high end for sure, , and made of fiberglass. Feels super durable. Great components. But it has a few cons: the power is medium, not light, so it doesn’t bend much. The lightest power is medium (I prefer light) for the 8+ft rod, and it’s one piece (I prefer 2 piece). I ordered it. Maybe I’ll keep it. As far as I know they don’t make light power 8ft+ rods.

I was going to say if the Lamiglass Classic was too stiff the Abyss was going to be out of the question.

I've caught salmon on that same abyss on charter boats, but it's stiff as can be.

Update:

I checked the Phoenix Abyss and it’s a beautiful rod, high end for sure, , and made of fiberglass. Feels super durable. Great components. But it has a few cons: the power is medium, not light, so it doesn’t bend much. The lightest power is medium (I prefer light) for the 8+ft rod, and it’s one piece (I prefer 2 piece). I ordered it. Maybe I’ll keep it. As far as I know they don’t make light power 8ft+ rods.

I was going to say if the Lamiglass Classic was too stiff the Abyss was going to be out of the question.

I've caught salmon on that same abyss on charter boats, but it's stiff as can be.

You’re probably right