How to pick downrigger rod length?

[Mfowl]

I agree with Cohoho, don't buy high end rods for your DR's put the $ in a good reel. I've run a US lite on my DR and it was a good rod. It would be a decent choice especially for Pinks/Coho's. However it has very few eyes on it compared to DR specific rods. One that I have been looking at is the Okuma DR rod. They make a 10'6" and a lighter 8'6" that seems like it would be sweet for Coho's. Both retail for about $90 ea. I've run all standard lengths from 8'6"-10'6" and all performed fine. I do prefer a glass rod over a graphite rod. Good luck out there, let us know what you choose.

[MtnMuley]

I kinda disagree cohoho. You definately get what you pay for as far as Loomis's go. I buy them for the fight after the rigger goes off. Never tried the US lites though.   I run all light rods here on the eastern side of the state, and in my boat,  it's all about the fight you have on your hands once the fish is on.      I totally agree on the quality reel part

Probably so, but I only fish salt on riggers..   And I have a lot of different people in the boat, some never fished until taken them out (Wounded Warriors) and I supply the gear, so in the event a rod gets trashed, it is all good!   But I do have a couple nice ones, but feel selfish if I have them on the boat and not for general use..

I did watch a $350 Lamiglas SI graphite handled rod and a $200 reel go screaming out of wet, numb hands one day - that made my mind up to stick with Ugly Sticks pretty quickly..  lol

You make a good point on people on your boat with little or no experience handling the rods. Wise on your rod choice there. I once had a GLX and Calcutta TE hit the water........thank God for the deep bury in the clip. My cat like reflexes came awake after several years!