The Superstick 6-12′ Made a Bold First Impression
The Superstick 6-12′ from Superstick isn’t just another push pole; it’s a statement about versatility and thoughtful design. This telescopic fiberglass pole, designed and manufactured in the USA, promises to be the ultimate tool for anglers, boaters, and duck hunters navigating shallow waters. My first encounter with it hinted at a product that could genuinely simplify boat handling in challenging environments, far exceeding expectations of typical push poles.
My need for the Superstick 6-12′ stemmed from frustrating experiences in the marshy backwaters of the Louisiana delta. I’d often find myself struggling with a standard-length push pole that was either too long in tight spaces or too short to effectively pole through thicker vegetation. The promise of adjustable length and multiple attachment options immediately piqued my interest.
Unboxing the Superstick 6-12′, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and surprisingly light weight. The fiberglass felt solid and well-finished, and the telescoping mechanism operated smoothly and confidently. The included “Duck Foot” attachment looked incredibly practical, and the overall impression was one of quality and durability.
Compared to other fixed-length push poles I’ve used, the Superstick 6-12′ stands out due to its adjustable length and attachment versatility. Traditional poles often require separate tools for anchoring or retrieving lures, but this one aims to consolidate multiple functions. I chose the Superstick 6-12′ over a competing telescoping aluminum pole because I trusted fiberglass would be more durable in saltwater environments, resisting corrosion over time.
My initial reaction was a blend of excitement and cautious optimism. While the features seemed incredibly promising, I was eager to see how the Superstick 6-12′ would perform under the real-world demands of my fishing expeditions. I hoped it would live up to its claims of being a versatile and reliable tool, simplifying my time on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Superstick 6-12′ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Superstick 6-12′ was in the brackish waters of a tidal creek known for its shallow flats and abundant redfish. I primarily used it to navigate my skiff through the oyster-laden shallows and to gently push off the bottom without spooking fish. The Superstick 6-12’s telescoping feature proved invaluable, allowing me to quickly adjust the length as the water depth changed.
The Superstick 6-12′ performed admirably in the moderately choppy conditions, offering good grip and stability. Despite being splashed repeatedly, the lever mechanism never faltered or slipped. I did discover that the extended pole could catch the wind like a sail, so shorter lengths were best in windy conditions.
Using the Superstick 6-12′ was initially straightforward, but I found myself adjusting the locking lever tension to achieve the perfect balance between ease of adjustment and secure lockup. After a few adjustments, it became second nature. The Duck Foot attachment retrieved a snagged lure flawlessly on my first attempt.
One surprise during the initial use was how efficiently the fiberglass transmitted the feeling of the bottom. This sensitivity allowed me to anticipate changes in depth and bottom composition. It’s a definite advantage for stealthy approaches.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Superstick 6-12′ has proven to be a valuable addition to my boating gear. It has accompanied me on numerous fishing trips, duck hunts, and even a few impromptu shoreline cleanup efforts. The telescoping mechanism still operates smoothly and securely, even after being exposed to saltwater and mud.
The Superstick 6-12’s durability has exceeded my expectations, with no signs of cracking or delamination in the fiberglass. The only noticeable wear is some minor scratching on the finish from contact with oyster shells and rocky bottoms. I’m impressed by the resilience of the materials and the quality of the construction.
Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with freshwater after each use is typically sufficient to keep the Superstick 6-12′ in top condition. Occasionally, I’ll apply a silicone-based lubricant to the telescoping mechanism to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion. This minimal effort has kept the Superstick 6-12′ performing like new.
Compared to my previous experience with fixed-length aluminum poles, the Superstick 6-12’s versatility and durability are undeniable improvements. Its adjustable length and multiple attachment options make it a far more practical tool for a wide range of boating activities. It outperforms my previous push poles in nearly every aspect, justifying its higher price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Superstick 6-12′
Specifications
- Length: Telescopes from 6 feet to 12 feet, offering exceptional versatility in varying water depths. This adjustable length is a standout feature, catering to diverse boating environments.
- Material: Constructed from durable fiberglass, providing a balance of strength, flexibility, and lightweight performance. Fiberglass offers excellent resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for saltwater use.
- Attachment: Includes the patented “Duck Foot” attachment with a snag-free retractable hook for retrieving lures and decoys. The ability to remove this attachment and add other compatible accessories enhances the pole’s functionality.
- Compatibility: Designed to accept attachments from Swobbit® and Shurhold®, such as conical gigs, boat brushes, boat hooks, landing nets, and gaffs. This compatibility makes the Superstick 6-12′ a truly multi-purpose tool.
- Origin: Proudly made in the USA with US materials, ensuring high quality and supporting domestic manufacturing. The fact that it is US made inspires confidence.
These specifications translate into a versatile and reliable tool. The adjustable length allows for use in tight mangroves or open flats. The fiberglass construction ensures it can withstand harsh marine environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Superstick 6-12′ performs its core function – propelling a boat in shallow water – exceptionally well. The fiberglass construction provides excellent stiffness and responsiveness, allowing for efficient transfer of energy with each push. The adjustable length offers a significant advantage, enabling users to adapt to varying water depths and navigate tight spaces with ease.
The Superstick 6-12′ excels in versatility, thanks to its multiple attachment options. The Duck Foot attachment is remarkably effective for retrieving snagged lures and decoys. However, the pole can feel slightly unwieldy at its full 12-foot extension in strong winds.
Overall, the Superstick 6-12′ meets and exceeds expectations. Its adjustable length, durable construction, and multiple attachment options make it a valuable tool for any boater navigating shallow waters. It’s more than just a push pole; it’s a multi-functional tool that simplifies boat handling.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Superstick 6-12′ is impressive. The fiberglass pole feels solid and well-constructed, and the telescoping mechanism operates smoothly and securely. The overall weight is surprisingly light, considering its length and durability, making it easy to handle for extended periods.
The Superstick 6-12′ is generally user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive telescoping mechanism. The locking lever is easy to operate, and the attachment options are straightforward to install and remove. There’s a slight learning curve in finding the optimal locking lever tension, but this is quickly mastered with a few adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
The Superstick 6-12’s fiberglass construction ensures long-lasting durability, even in harsh marine environments. The pole is resistant to corrosion, UV damage, and impact, making it a reliable tool for years to come. Regular maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with freshwater after each use.
Repairing the Superstick 6-12′ is relatively straightforward, thanks to its simple design and readily available replacement parts. The telescoping mechanism can be easily disassembled for cleaning and lubrication, and any damaged attachments can be replaced without specialized tools. This ease of maintenance and repair ensures a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Superstick 6-12′ comes standard with the Duck Foot attachment. This allows users to retrieve lures and decoys. This versatile push pole also allows you to attach accessories from Swobbit® and Shurhold®.
These attachments include conical gigs, boat brushes, boat hooks, landing nets, and gaffs. The Superstick 6-12’s compatibility with these readily available accessories enhances its functionality and makes it a truly customizable tool. The possibilities are endless, from cleaning your boat to landing a trophy fish.
Pros and Cons of Superstick 6-12′
Pros
- Exceptional Versatility: The adjustable length (6-12 feet) makes it suitable for a wide range of boating activities and water depths.
- Durable Construction: The fiberglass material is lightweight, strong, and resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Multiple Attachment Options: Compatible with attachments from Swobbit® and Shurhold®, expanding its functionality beyond a simple push pole.
- Easy to Use: The telescoping mechanism is smooth and intuitive, and the attachments are easy to install and remove.
- Made in the USA: Ensures high quality and supports domestic manufacturing.
Cons
- Slightly unwieldy at full extension (12 feet) in strong winds.
- Higher price point compared to fixed-length aluminum push poles.
Who Should Buy Superstick 6-12′?
The Superstick 6-12′ is perfect for:
- Anglers targeting shallow water species, such as redfish, bonefish, and snook.
- Duck hunters navigating marshy areas with dense vegetation.
- Boaters who need a versatile tool for pushing, anchoring, and retrieving items.
- Kayakers and SUP (stand up paddleboard) enthusiasts who want a reliable and adjustable paddle/push pole.
Who should skip this product? Boaters who primarily operate in deep water and rarely encounter shallow conditions may not fully appreciate the Superstick 6-12’s benefits. Those on a very tight budget might find cheaper, albeit less versatile, alternatives adequate for their needs.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A boat brush attachment is highly recommended for keeping your boat clean and free of debris. A dedicated boat hook attachment can be invaluable for docking and retrieving items from the water.
Conclusion on Superstick 6-12′
The Superstick 6-12′ is more than just a push pole; it’s a versatile and well-designed tool that can significantly enhance your boating experience. Its adjustable length, durable construction, and multiple attachment options make it a valuable addition to any boater’s arsenal. While it comes with a higher price tag than basic push poles, the added functionality and long-lasting durability justify the investment.
The price is justified due to its robust construction and multiple uses. You are getting multiple tools in one.
I would highly recommend the Superstick 6-12′ to anyone who frequently navigates shallow waters and values versatility and durability in their boating gear. Upgrade your boating experience and buy a Superstick 6-12′ today!