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Push Pole Recommendation

1.8K views 8 replies 7 participants last post by  Cayo1802023  
#1 ·
I'm new to owning a skiff but not new to boating. I'm looking to get a push pole for my Cayo 180 w/90 Suzuki.

I will not be poling from the poling platform (too old for that) so it will be from the rear deck just to ease into shallower areas and get out if I get stuck. Research says I can get away with something under 16ft so I'm thinking 16 or 14 feet. I know you can spend upwards of $800+ on a nice one but I'm not interested in that. I also want a multi piece unit for transportation ease. I would like to stay in the $200-$300 range given my intended use.

Looking for recommendations on the following:

Manufacturer? Stiffy, Carbon Marine, others?
Material? Fiberglass, Hybrid, Carbon?
Length? 16 or 14 feet?

Thanks for your help.
 
#2 ·
#3 ·
FWIW, I used an Adjustable Super Stick for a couple years with a little jon boat. I found any time I really leaned into it to push into the wind or got into some deep mud (or like you would have to do if you're stuck on a flat) the clamp slipped. So 17 feet quickly turned into 13, and it was useless. I got frustrated and got rid of it.
Others may have better results.
If you can deal with a one piece I have a used Moonlighter fiberglass I left with family in Ocala, FL last week. Price is definitely right.
 
#8 ·
FWIW, I used an Adjustable Super Stick for a couple years with a little jon boat. I found any time I really leaned into it to push into the wind or got into some deep mud (or like you would have to do if you're stuck on a flat) the clamp slipped. So 17 feet quickly turned into 13, and it was useless. I got frustrated and got rid of it.
Others may have better results.
If you can deal with a one piece I have a used Moonlighter fiberglass I left with family in Ocala, FL last week. Price is definitely right.
Appreciate all the responses. Also thanks for the offer on the Moonlighter you have for sale but I really prefer a multi-piece for ease of transportation.
 
#4 ·
I just bought this one for my duck boat, sometimes I get too deep in the mud and dont enjoy wading around in gator country. It seems to be built decent but too heavy for serious poling (5.5lbs).. for the $50 sale its a good deal I think. 12ft might be too short for your needs though, maybe you can have someone weld some tubing on the point end section for extra reach.

 
#6 ·
The super sticks have served me well. I’m on my second one with my second skiff. I use the 9-17’ version and have never had an issue. The one time it did slip was when It was new, I just tightened up the clamp about extra 1/2 turn and the problem was solved, And trust me, I lean on it hard.
I pole from my platform when I’ve got another person on board, but when I’m solo I pole from the bow. That’s why I really prefer the adjustability of it. From the bow I only need 10-12’ whereas on the platform I use the full 17’.
Our local bass pro has been more reliable on stocking them compared to west marine.
 
#7 ·
moonlighter makes a fiberglass 18 footer for $310.

don’t really have to worry about fiberglass breaking. It’s heavy but if you’re mostly taking it on boat rides. I’d be happy to help get one ordered for you if you’re local.

I also used a 8’ kayak stick to stake off my BT for a long time. Might be worth a gamble. Just slide it in one of your rod holders and forget it’s there until you need it.