[Gerry Zagorski]

Penn Fierce 5000 will be ok for Fluke and Stripers but weighing in at almost 20 ounces, it will be a real challenge to use for jigging blackfish as light weight reels most use are 8 -10 ounces. 10-12 ounce difference may not sound like a lot but I can assure you it makes a big difference jigging with light weight jigs for Tog.

Pairing that reel with a light weight composite pole is not going to work out well...It won’t balance well and would be like having Ferrari and putting diesel truck engine in it....

So now comes your dilemma...Do you want to invest in a high quality light weight reel and rod that covers all your bases. Or, do you want to try and save some money and just get a pole to match up to your Penn reel?

If I’m in your shoes I bite the bullet and take the more expensive route and get something that I can use for Tog, Striper and Fluke and when I’m jigging for any of those species, I’m not wearing myself out when jigging all day with a heavier set up.

For a decent mid level light weight rod and reel combo you’re looking at 3 to $400. If you plan to fish a lot spend the money and you won’t regret it.

If you fish occasionally save your money knowing you’re going to be fishing with a heavy set up that matches your reel knowing it’s not going to cover all your bases and you could find a decent production rod for $100 to $150.

Which way are you leaning?