I've netted fish alone several times, and don't understand why a perception exists that a longer rod is more difficult than a shorter rod. Long rods and short rods are the same length off the side of the boat when they are pointing straight up, which is where it should be pointing as you are attempting to land a fish. get what I'm saying here?...Point the rod up, and draw the fish's head towards yourself. If the fish doesnt come in, it isnt ready. Reading some of this... I get the feeling some of you have the rod pointed straight out across the water while you are landing a fish alone.