Float Tube Fishing Forum E-Zine Volume 7: Issue 4: | Page 9

cuts  weight off the rod as less material of course means less weight. On the cost side I think most fishermen will say they don't see savings.

I really like the Split Grip or what is referred to as the “fighting butt”. Advantages are it provides for a little less overall rod weight as we discussed. This also distributes the butt section weight at two points on the rod, and that seems to give the rod more balance as well. For me it's just the overall look that I enjoy plus once again we have the extra leverage. Also being that there is less weight they can be more easily used as a one handed rod.

The last thing is the split

grip gives the rod a more

modern look. But overall

this is not a big pro for

split grips as I am sure

most would agree. Again,

the above length is

important. I like a longer

butt section but even with

the Split grip you should

make sure it is not longer

than your forearm.

As a kid I started with the Pistol Grip which to this day you can still find on new rods.  The Pistol Grip for me is only good for small game fish.  Bluegill and Crappie being that small game fish.  I am sure there are people out there that are OK with a Pistol Grip, but again for me not my style.  As my game fish get bigger my need for some extra advantage increases.  This is why I like the longer butt sections on my rods.  Is the butt section as important as the rest of the rod NO but it still is important in the fight and advantage we may need when fishing for our next personal best catch.

By: J. Bernier