In the past week, I've been field testing a new fishing rod by the Emmrod Company that is truly different. The short rod is formed by a heavy guage steel rod end that twists and locks into an articulating cork handle. Breaking down to a length of 13 inches, it arrived with room to spare in my normal-sized mailbox. Though it looks rather odd, its performance is impressive.

I've got the Mountaineer pole, which has an adjustable short handle and accomodates spinning, spin casting, and bait casting reels. I set up the rod with a spinning reel. The rod has a springy coil that acts as both a rear "eyelet" and a shock absorber when fighting a fish. The Mountaineer is rated for fish up to 25 pounds, more than sufficient for all types of freshwater fishing.

For a short rod, it casted surprisingly well. Overhand, I could throw about 45 feet with a number 3 Mepps spinner. However, by using an underhanded sidearm cast, I could throw about 60 feet with the same lure. The retrieve felt normal as line fed through the rod's two eyelets. It was ergonomic and comfortable to use.

The real test was fighting a fish. I caught several dozen, including crappies, bluegills, and bass up to about two pounds. Though these fish were not large, I was surprised at the fighting action afforded by the steel rod's coil spring. The rod didn't bend as might a conventional rod, but rather flexed against the spring. It was an interesting sensation, efficient, and just plain fun. I really enjoyed catching fish on the short Emmrod.

The Company touts their innovative rods as ideal for all sportsmen who need fishing gear that takes a minimum of space. The rods are ideal for backpacks, jet skis, tackle or tool boxes – even golf bags! They fit in saddle bags or kayaks.They easily store under a car seat. Because they are steel and take so little space, I can keep a strung Emmrod in my car during hot summer months without the worries that accompany filament rods.

Emmrods allow you to stay ready no matter what your game, and that's often the key to successful fishing. This is one "new" thing looks to be a winner. The rods are highly sensitive and touted to out jig and out crank traditional rods. They look to be an excellent choice for ice fishing as well.

Mike Blair
Mike Blair Outdoors
Website: MikeBlairOutdoors.com