i generally use my 4.5 ultralite for shooting docks just cause i feel like i have more control with the shorter rod

I like a 5 1/2 foot rod to dock shoot.

For all of you Short rod users, I will use a shorter rod if you would try a longer rod? Are there any takers on this offer? Maybe we will both change our mind about the lenghts...

I use a short rod because when I fish docks I shoot my jig, fish it all the way back to the boat, and let it hang dead still vertically before I real it back up. I catch a lot of fish on that dead hang and sometimes my rod tip is so close to the dock that setting the hook is hard with a longer rod. I fish very close to the dock normally, in fact so close that sometimes I actually hold on to the dock b/c my boat is so lightweight it drifts away quickly and easily. Add all this up and I use 4 1/2 ft and 5 ft rods... plus I wouldn't fork out a lot of money for a shooting rod because I'm pretty rough on them (broken tips, especially).

I've got 7' rods too, but don't feel comfortable with them that much when fishing for crappie.

4 1/2 St Croix was my best rod. Now I have 4 1/2 wally

Way easier for the average joe to hit the sweet spot on the dock. You don't always have to shoot either. I sling most of the time and shoot when between thye dock and a boat. A back hand flip of the wrist does the trick.Smooth small reel a plus also.My best os a Pfleuger president, the smallest they make

there are lots of big docks here on CC and shooting that jig 30ft under a dock is sometimes a necesity if you want to catch fish. I dont feel like a short 4 1/2-5ft rod can do that as good as a longer one. Thats just my opinion and I have kept to myself for years but I feel like I have an edge over many fisherman because of it.
As I mentioned it also allows me to back off the dock and fish it instead of getting right up next to it. To me if I get right up next to it I am more likely to break rods, bang the dock if it's rough, and thats just not my style. I started off fishing docks years ago with a 4.5ft rod but I eventually came around and realized I liked the longer one better. More control, more leverage, longer shots, the bottom line is I feel like I catch more fish with it.

chuck, when you shoot, do u let the jig sink and bottom bounce it back or do you swim it at a certain depth? I may try shooting with my cherrywood this spring... it's 6'6"

I opened this thread to ask that exact question. I've gotten decent at shooting but not sure how to work the jig once it's out.

i usually shoot it and watch it like a hawk as it sinks... get lots of hits there. Then work it back different ways, just want to see what others do

+1

+ 1 on the short Pro Angler.

Short...

I agree Short is the way to get it done.

I let it fall generally. I realize everyone has there preference. Short rods are easier to handle and feel more comfortable for most fisherman.