Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod Review

First Impressions of Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod

The Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod promises a blend of sensitivity and power, a crucial combination for any serious angler targeting walleye or other freshwater species. Lew’s has a strong reputation for quality gear, and the Speed Stick series aims to deliver on that promise. My interest in this rod stemmed from a need for a dedicated trolling rod that wouldn’t break the bank but still offer the performance required for long days on the water.

Upon unboxing, the rod feels surprisingly light yet solid, inspiring confidence. The full-length cork grips are comfortable in hand, a major plus for extended trolling sessions. Compared to my older, heavier trolling rod from a different manufacturer, the Lew’s Speed Stick feels significantly more refined. Other rods I considered lacked the sensitivity I was seeking, often feeling like a broomstick compared to this. I’m genuinely excited to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod on a recent walleye fishing trip on Lake Erie. Conditions were challenging, with moderate winds and choppy water. The rod handled flatline trolling with ease. The moderate action and medium power proved to be a good balance, allowing me to feel subtle strikes while still having enough backbone to handle larger fish.

It took no time to get used to the rod’s action and sensitivity. After a few hours of trolling, I landed a beautiful 25-inch walleye. There were no issues and I am excited for future trips.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Lew’s Speed Stick has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the guides or the blank, even after battling several decent-sized fish. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use keeps it looking like new. Compared to my previous trolling rod, which developed some guide rust after a season, the Lew’s Speed Stick seems far more durable and well-built.

Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod

Specifications

• Rod Type: Conventional. Designed specifically for use with conventional reels, offering increased power and line capacity.
• Rod Action: Moderate. Provides a good balance of sensitivity and power, ideal for detecting subtle strikes and fighting fish.
• Power: Medium. A versatile power rating suitable for a wide range of lure weights and fish species.
• Line Weight: 15 – 30 lbs. Handles a good range of line weights, making it adaptable to different fishing situations.
• Lure Weight: 3/8 – 3/4 oz. Perfect for most trolling presentations, accommodating various lure sizes.
• Water Type: Freshwater. Specifically designed for freshwater fishing, ensuring optimal performance in those environments.

These specifications translate to a rod that is sensitive enough to detect subtle walleye bites while possessing enough power to handle larger fish and heavier lures. The moderate action keeps fish hooked effectively during trolling.

Performance & Functionality

The Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose: walleye trolling. The sensitivity of the IM8 graphite blank allows me to feel subtle changes in lure action, indicating potential strikes. Its strengths lie in its balanced power and sensitivity, making it a versatile tool for various trolling techniques. There are no true weaknesses apparent.

The rod easily meets expectations for a mid-priced trolling rod, exceeding them in terms of sensitivity and overall feel.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod has quality construction. The IM8 graphite blank is lightweight yet strong, and the full-length cork grips provide excellent comfort and control. The Lew’s exclusive SoftTouch graphite skeletal reel seat enhances sensitivity and balance, making it a pleasure to fish with all day long. There is no significant learning curve; it feels intuitive and easy to use from the first cast.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, the Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod should last for many seasons with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward. Simply rinse with fresh water after saltwater use and wipe down the grips and blank.

Accessories and Customization Options

The rod comes with a patented No Foul Hook Keeper, a small but useful feature for securing lures during transport. While there are no major customization options available directly from Lew’s, the rod is compatible with a wide range of conventional reels and line types. The Fuji Concept O guides are a standard size, making them easily replaceable if needed.

Pros and Cons of Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod

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Who Should Buy Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod?

The Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod is perfect for walleye anglers, freshwater trollers, and anyone looking for a sensitive and durable trolling rod at an affordable price. It is also good for anglers of all skill levels.

Someone seeking ultimate power for heavier lures and larger species might consider a heavier-powered rod.

Must-have accessories include a quality conventional reel, trolling line, and a selection of effective walleye lures.

Conclusion on Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod

The Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod is a well-designed and well-built trolling rod that offers excellent sensitivity, durability, and value. The price is definitely justified for the performance delivered.

I would personally recommend it to any angler looking for a reliable and effective walleye trolling rod. If you’re in the market for a new trolling rod, give the Lew’s Speed Stick Conventional Rod a serious look – you won’t be disappointed.