I was looking for a new plugging rod to fish the Cape Cod Canal this year. I make two trips a year, not looking for a luxurious rod to use for two trips.

The goal was to find a rod that delivers top-tier performance at an incredible value. So I went with a trusted brand Shimano.

I picked up a Speedmaster rod. (model SPMS110MH2) Shimano is known for developing equipment for shore-based anglers that are always looking to achieve maximum distance. Long casts are necessary more often than not while fishing the Cape Cod Canal.

From the Shimano website: “Speedmaster Surf Rods are built around a 24ton carbon composite blank wrapped with durable black Fuji K-Frame Guides with alconite inserts. The guides are spaced according to Shimano’s Custom Long Cast Concept Guide Spacing System for optimal line management. The rod handles feature a shrink tube grip material that offers optimal amounts of grip and comfort in wet conditions”.

For $150.00 I believe a got a great deal, looking forward to casting poppers to hungry striped bass in a few months.