Hookhider makes a line of IM-6 rods, but I have no experience with them at all, so they will not be included in this report. I have spent the past 6 or 8 weeks comparing these rods to the tried and true Cabela's IM-7 Tourney Trail rods that I have been using for the past 5 or so years. This comparison is prejudiced, in as much as that since doing this test I have become the Hookhider factory rep for the New England area, so I am in position to make a buck on sales in this area! Bear in mind also that this testing is subjective and based on feelings and opinion alone with no scientific methodology.

I found the Hookhider rods to be at least AS sensitive as the Cabela's TT series and in a couple of models, perhaps just a bit more sensitive! So, at about $10 MORE a copy, why did I “jump on the bandwagon”? In every respect but one, both rods are roughly comparable, but the one difference is, in my opinion, worth about 20 buck in the convienance it offers. The Hookhider rods have built into the handles a patented recess to hold the hooks of most bass-size lures when the rods are not actually being used for fishing. When I first saw these rods at the Bassmaster Classic Show, I thought it was a “gimmick” handle. Then I used it for a while. Then I started replacing ALL of the rods in my boat with Hookhiders! At 65 to 70 bucks a pop I had to become either the rep or a dealer just to have wholesale access to them! Cap'n Jack has become the dealer!

The more I use them, the more I like them. From the early acceptance by a few of the tournament anglers here in Maine, I suspect they are going to “catch on” quite well. For those few of you who, like me, have ever sat on a treble hook, they are worth their weight in gold!