Nitro Pro and Bassmaster Classic Champion Edwin Evers breaks down his ultimate 5 rod bass fishing set. Informed by a storied and successful tournament career—and a boatload of charisma—when Evers shares his perspective, you’d be wise to listen. Here are his picks.
Rod 1: the Workhorse
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Casting Rod - 7’1” Medium Heavy, Fast Action.
This super versatile rod is the work horse. You’ll use it for a variety of applications—vibrating jigs, spinner baits, football jigs, casting worms, finesse jigs and more.
Rod Attributes: Great tip to backbone ratio. Combines feel and power in a highly versatile package. The rod’s sensitivity means that you won’t pull the bait out of the fish’s mouth when you have a bite.
Best Reel Pairings:
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Baitcast Reel—Gear ratio: 6.8:1 for spinner baits and vibrating jigs
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Baitcast Reel—Gear ratio: 8.3:1 for football jig or swim jig fishing. This reel is very versatile.
Rod 2: Jerk baits and Topwaters
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Casting Rod- 6’9” Medium Action
This rod is for throwing topwaters—walking baits, popping baits, choppos or buzzbaits—and jerk baits.
For jerk bait fishing, use a reel spooled with fluorocarbon. For fishing top waters, use a reel spooled with braid.
Rod 3: the Crankbait Rod
Bass Pro Crankin’ Stick. 7’ Medium Heavy
A dedicated crank bait rod is a must for any serious bass fisherman. The rod’s composite action and the way it loads up to launch lures is specifically designed for fishing crankbaits. The Crankin’ Stick combines feel with backbone—a must to avoid pulling the hooks when crankbait fishing.
Best reel pairing:
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Baitcast Reel—Gear ratio: 6.8:1. It’s a little bit slower than the 8.3:1, which will get you more bites.
Rod 4: Big Baits, Big Hooks
Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0 7’3” Heavy, extra fast action
This long, heavy rod has all the backbone needed to drive home bigger hooks. It is super versatile. It allows you to cast bigger baits (like frogs or swim jigs), work heavy jigs in grass, and is perfect for flipping around docks and stumps.
Reel pairing:
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Baitcast Reel - Gear ratio: 8.3:1
Rod 5: Your Spinning Outfit
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Rod, 6’9” Medium Heavy
You’ve got to have a spinning rod in your arsenal. This one covers all the bases—it’s perfect for drop shotting, throwing wacky rigs, swimbait fishing, little grubs, and more. This rod combines tip feel with the backbone needed to drive home a drop shot hook.
Reel pairing:
Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel, size 2000. 6.0:1 gear ratio.
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