I have a 8.5 ft rod rated up to 1oz lures, is this a heavy enough setup for that lake from shore or a long enough rod to cast out far enough from the bank? I've heard that 10-12ft rods are needed to get out far enough but unsure how true that is since I'm new to this lake and TX, thanks

I would suggest you bring this subject up in the catfishing section and ask DAMFISHERMAN. He uses the surf rods a lot and he could give you some good pointers about them.

most of my bank rods are 8' and I can cast them anywhere from 50-80 yds with 2 oz weights depending on which combo and rigging.....and sometimes I wade out waist deep then cast to get more distance.........I don't know the Lake- Calaveras but your combo should be fine.

What is the rod and what reel u running on it?
And what are u trying to target Catfish or anything that bites?

Cpl different guys in Catfish section fish Calaveras and could give some pointers.....

Check out the Rods and reels and terminal rigs for long casting at www.breakawayusa.com. They are the rods that serious surf fishing guys in Texas use. They are also the rods that serious tournament distance casters use. They are seriously affordable.

well you dont need to spend a ton. def. use 2 or 3 oz weights. use leaders if u want. they got some 49 dollar daiwa surf rod combos at the walmart by rolling oaks mall. and 8 ft rod should suffice though.

What is the deal at the wall with the balloons?

the wind is supposed to blow the balloons down that channel. the glow sticks in the bootles look cool though ha.

I will use it for reds and cats. The rod is a 8.5' heavy action ugly stik lite says its built for salmon/steelhead fishing.

I would like to rig it up to 2oz weights/live bait for distance but not sure how wise it is to go over the lure rating of 1oz. It has a lot of flex for it being a heavy action rod so I'm not sure if it would break if I happen to hook any decent sized fish.

I suppose I could give it a go and if it breaks or can't handle chucking 2oz weights I will have a reason to get a new rod

I have a Abu Garcia 6500c3 I will pair it with.

well say it did break. the line is still good to go. ha.

don't forget your penicillin shot

10' rod and a reel that holds at least 200yds of 20#