Great to watch this year's Buyer's Guide based on your extensive experience fishing these rods and reels on the water. Three JDM rods series in the $100-200 that are candidates worth checking out are: Rodiocraft's 99 Meister (the affordable version of the 9999 series), Valkein's Zero Verge series and Major Craft's Fine Tale series. Based on my limited comparisons, the Rodiocraft 99 is a bit softer than the Valkein rods with Major Craft in between.
Shakespeare micro 5'6" was my first rod reel combo, I got it at Walmart for $20. I fished it all the time and was catching 2-3lb bass all day with no problem. I agree, people don't use their gear correctly and also probably aren't setting the drag properly. Thanks for the buyers guide. I got the daiwa presso a couple years ago on your recommendation, it's fantastic.
One of my favorite trout rods is a slow action Quantum 4’6” fiberglass rod one piece that seems indestructible and is fun to land fish on. I have a one piece Daiwa 5’6” too, but they are both ultra light for 1-4 line, which is good off a boat in the lake without cover……..but I also love the Shakespeare 7 foot micro…..light for 4-10lb line…..a ittle soft….which I like….but stiff enough at the tip, I can cast s spinner or jig. I am using a 20 year old Csrdinal center drag reel that is rated 150 yards for 6lb mono line………i am using 3lb test line on it…..it has a good drag and I don’t want to test that cheap Shakespeare rod too much, so 3lb test wth a good drag works……I got 2 of those reels on clearance 20 years ago at Walmart……I’d seen the ads in In=Fisherman magazine back then……oh….btw…….that avatar is not me….I am a man…and that is my wife. For some reason, this I Pad is configured for her.
You are probably right that your Presso rod video contributed to increased sales as I bought two 8 ft rods based on your video 3 yrs ago! They are beautiful rods. Keep up the good work! From one Victor to another Happy Thanksgiving! Hope Daiwa produces an 8ft rod for the Air AGS.
Thanks for the updated buyer's guide. After fishing the St. Croix Legend elite panfish Light power rod with Shimano Vanford 2000, I have to say it is my favorite spinning setup. However, since I got my mother into spinning rods and lures(l custom paint my own ), It has pretty much been in her hands. We took it out today and she caught 9 bass, 4 bluegill, and 2 crappie (one of which was 13oz and 12"). Not only is it fun to fight the little guys, it is able to pull in some good size fish. Since I hardly get to use the St. Croix now, I picked up a BFS Rod and reel (Diawa gekkabijin air TW PE and Old18 Bouancy UL rod), which has been alot of fun for panfish and bass. This setup is actually able to cast a trout magnet pretty well for a casting rod/reel.
yes, some BFS will now cast a trout magnet just fine, ON AVERAGE. Key word is ON AVERAGE. No matter how careful you are, you are gona have issues a few times a day, and that can cost u line and time and frustration. U can cast 50 times in a row fine, and it takes one cast to ruin your line or spend 15 min untangling. And then, even if it was fine... fighting crappie on BFS is just no fun. Only slow clicking felt drag of a spinning reel gives me the thrill : )
I very much trust your reviews. You got me wanting the Shimano Ultegra. I used to like cheap Shimano reels, because I don’t do much fancy fishing or fish very often, because until I retire in a few years, I like to play golf more…….but I am getting my mind ready for retirement and looking to be ready with my equipment. A few years ago, I was n Walmart and they had Okiuma Avenger reels for $5 on clearance and a Pfluger president for $15…which I gave to my friend. I’ve never used them…my guess is that they are ok, but my favorite reels so far were an DS Daiwa whisker and Pinmacle that I had 20 years ago. I have neither now…..but they were my taste of higher end reels…..but quite honestly…..for 12 inch stocker trout, the Shimano IX is good enough!
Great video Victor. I really appreciate the rod guides because unlike reels, rods aren’t as black and white as daiwa and shimano. Kinda bummed that there was no 100-350 range as that’s exactly what I’m looking for right now and theres just so many options to choose from, but I respect that you don’t report any as the experience you had wasn’t good. The search continues. Happy thanksgiving to you and your family!
you nailed it, rods are not as black and white, and there is too many, not like reels. Everybody buys blanks and guides from Mudhole.com and glues them together and calls it a new 'Brand'. But try to make a reel nicer than Legalis, and for $60! Try that! : ) That's why there isn't much competition for the reels.. I have a reliable source from Japan, a guy who mails me everything i buy from Japan. I pinned his comment. Go check it out. He suggested a few rods and I trust him 100%
Thanks for going through so many different rods. And your explanations for each rod really helps. This is one had to watch it twice and took a note thanks! Happy thanksgiving leftover day!!
Very good recommendations. Victor, I definetly appreciate your point of view I've watched many of your videos and purchased your tackle all good. I even just purchased a Shimano Soare XR S610L-S 2 piece rod based on your comments with regard to the construction and aesthetic. It is a wonderful rod and know you did not recommend this particular model but I wanted something other than a dedicated ultralight rod. Build is fantastic, feels good in hand. But 2 things it is made in China not Japan. And the that solid tip makes it extra fast. Thanks again love the channel carry on sir.
Thank you sir. Yes, solid tip always makes rods extra fast action, that that is precisely why i don't recommend it. As for made in Japan - did i say it was made in Japan? If i talk about JDM, that means that the rod is made FOR Japan, not IN japan. The Eradicator is perfect example - perhaps the best ultralight rod ever made, but it was made in China, but it was a Japanese Domestic Market ONLY rod. It spilled out of japan due to some flattering reviews, but when a company makes a rod that they put for sale only on Shimano Japan, thats a JDM rod. If you see the same model sold in USA, like Poison Adrena - thats not a JDM rod
@@ifishcatfish No you never said the Soare was made in Japan. Kind of caught me off guard I should have been more thorough with my research. Just like the spec on the rod indicates "fast" and not extra fast now I know. This rod is paired with a Daiwa Luvias FC LT2500S-XH with some PE #4 braid. It cast very well with a 1/8 crappie Jig head. It's a very nice combination Thanks again for the content you provide it definetly helped me out.
I was no where near planning to buy another rod... but watching your video, I ended up getting a TCB rod. Currently own a 7'6 Presso UL, and 6'6 TFO Panfish UL.
Which rods can cast trout magnets the farthest for (1/64; 1/32) twitching technique? Farthest casting rod for floating (1/64; 1/32) tm? Farthest casting for micro cranks (1/64;1/32)? Thanks for the great reviews - best there is.
Rods that are good for twitching have a sharp tip, so u can play the trout magnet with small twitches. But if you want a sharp tip, the rod cannot be very long. Even worse is for 1/64, because it requires very soft blank to load up with such small weight, but soft blank that is long is a recipe for wobble. For twitching a trout magnet don't expect long distances and that is that. The best, like I said in the video, are the B&M TCB rod and the TFO, and even the aliexpress rod. Now, if u don't need to twitch it, then u can have a long blank, because the tip doesn't have to be so sharp. For float fishing and casting very light swimbaits the best is the Presso rod. I don't recommend the 6 footer, because it is too soft, but if you want a rod that is specialist for 1/64 lures, then it would be amazing. For 1/32 i would get the 7' presso for max distance. For float fishing, i would go with the 7'6 even.
Happy Thanksgiving Vic. Yet another great video. I'm totally happy with my line of Shakespeare Micro Series rods. I have 4'6", 5', 5'6'', 6'6" and 7" models and have NO problem putting my Vanquish C2000S and C2000SHG on them. I also have the TFO 6' and 6'6" Ultralight's with my Stella fj 1000 and Stradic 1000fl. Love the TFO's for Trout!
Thank you for this video! I've always enjoyed your honest review and opinions on rods and reels! I decided to buy a daiwa legalist lt 2000 size. I like that size better than the 1,000 size
my dad got a 5,6 shakespeare rod and i was surprised how good and the bend of that rod is and i caught a big fish on it... light version but the back bone is so good.... for 20 bucks it blew me away ..i will get a light version of it cant beat that for 20 bucks and for some reason the action on this rods are very good and hate to say it but blows other rods out there that cost 10 times lol..
I can't believe I missed this video when it came out. Victor I kept seeing great reviews on the Shimano Zodias so I bought one in a medium light 6'9 a couple of weeks ago and paired it up with the Vanford. I wanted something for Walleye. That rod feels amazing and although I love my Presso, I decided to order another Zodias in a 7' light. It's not here yet but I'm hoping it will be a perfect match for the trout magnet. The medium light has very little wobble so I'm hoping the light is similar but better suited for Crappie and Gills. I hate buying those without holding one first but they are not anywhere around where I live to go look at. If the light feels as nice as the medium light in my hands I will be very happy.
You might like the TenRyu lunakia 610 mlt. It is tubular tip plus it is made in Japan if you care where the rod is made. I love using it for crappies. It is not as comfy as the soare xr but nevertheless it is sensitive rod.
i agree with you i love the Shakespeare micro rods i got the 5-6 ul and 7 foot version as well had them both for 3 years and caught huge fish on them and there still holding up i got a lews laser hs micro 5-6 ul and its a close second of one of my favorites for under 50 bucks one rod i bought recently was the new lews light mr crappie thunder that rod is to stiff for a spinning rod for panfish and the handle is bad the rod from the tip to handle is vary unbalanced i don't no why they just stuck with what worked for them in the slab shaker series witch i love in there spinning rod are great but the crappie thunder stinks i also like the eagle claw lite ul series rod and bass proshops the tiny lite rods to great budget rods as well great videos thumbs up
I truly like you videos. Great info every time. I would recommend you to try a rod in the range of UL-L. It's pretty cheap but insanely capable. If you can find the Okuma psycho-perch, I would gladly want to see what you think of it. It has a fast action but with a softer tip. I mainly use it for chub fishing with small crankbaits. I even caught a 28 Inch asp with it and it absorbed the shock of the bite amazingly well.
I’m currently using a Leland’s tcb rod but wanting another ultralight. What’s the best rod for twitching a trout magnet under 100$. I was already looking at the TFO trout and panfish.
u gona have to go up in price. There is not much under $100 with a sharp tip. Shimano Sensilite is nice, but I don't think its nicer than the TCB rod. The TFO rod is nicer for other stuff, but probably not for trout magnet.
@@ifishcatfish what’s your recommendation? I may be able to expand my budget. Great videos by the way, you and trout magnet man are two of my favorite ultralight fishermen
I've got a new Prorex E 2-8 grams for 50 bucks from 100 retail price and i've paird it with a Mitchell MX 9 (all magnesium, 170 grams) that was 100 bucks from 170 originally. I use the combo with a 3 kg line ant 2-3 grams jigs with 4-5 cm lures, and it's perfect. For 150 bucks i have a combo that it's perfect for perches, chubs and sanders but last Sunday i've managed to land a 110 cm fat catfish after 20 minutes of fight. Now i am waiting for a casting rod (EFFZETT Optimus 2) in 5-15 grams, that i've paid 59 bucks from 150 bucks all new. Fishing doesn't have to be expensive if you search enough for those sales.
@@ifishcatfish indeed. I am from Romania but i'm living in France. The only USA gear that i have are the Penn reels and rod. We have some good gear here in Europe.
how do u float fish 12 feet deep with 6 foot rod? Fixed float is impossible. And even with slipping float, the stopper would have to come onto the spool itself, and then you are trying to cast with a GIANT KNOT right on top of the spool. You need to make 3 casts because of the first two the knot grabbed the line and the line didnt come out of the spool. There are other reasons, less important... like float fishing is done with slack line. Then when u see a bite and want to set the hook, there is a big belly of line in front, and its hard to set hook w 6 foot rod..
@@ifishcatfish I see, that makes since. I float fish ponds and creeks seldom over 5' in my area. I use a 5' pole because of tree limbs. Even then my float is not longer than 4' I haven't fished fresh deep water yet with a bobber. Thanks I'm trying to find a nice, action less than 100 pole for fishing creeks.. Preferably 2 piece. The one I have seems to miss a lot of hook sets. And sends my bobber flying back towards me. Are blue gill mouths so hard that the light pole action may not set the hook?
Great advice. What specific rods would you recommend for throwing Trout Magnets? I also don’t mind spending some money. But I don’t want to overspend either.
i don't have experience with mid range rods. I have a LONG playlist with high end rods and a good amount of budget rods, but nothing in the middle. I hate the middle. A lot of money but none of the high end components. At least with the budget u know its budget.
Nice work. I would like to see you get your hands on the Edge rods Finesse with 0 and 1 power. I was impressed at the Sac. Int. Sportsman Expo. They are 6’8”. I preferred at least 7’ or longer rods for boat application.
Buy the 7ft and 6ft 6 tfo 1 pc I work at sportsman’s as a fishing associate I own both they are my favorite for crappie and smallmouth Paired with a daiwa Legalis spooled with anywhere from 2 to 4 pound nanobraid from suffix 2in Berkeley powerbait ripple shad 1/64oz troutmagnet jig happy thanksgiving 🦃
Dont know anything about travel rods but i recommend watching Tactical Bassings channel. Search for travel. He made a good video aboutnit and he has tried the best
Hi please can i ask you. What is better to go ? Choose reel weight for the balance with rod. Od lightest reel as possible for the lightest combo together ? Balance ? Or lightness combo ? Fishinh stile 4-7 gram jigs with lure. Thx
What do you think about the uglystick elite and basspro elite? looking for something for trout fishing. Normally use carolina rig for powerbait or throw some 1/4 Oz spoons
Uglysticks are heavy and dead feeling. I have so many cheap options in my video; just pick some if those for trout fishing. Ugly sticks are for catfish
Wow Victor, you are on fire with videos delivering! As a European guy you are familiar with Sportex rods. I would like to hear or read your take on them.
@@ifishcatfish i ordered the xult version today, i re-watched your video and seen it on the rod. thanks much for your reply victor, always watch your videos.
Can you please recommend a Daiwa reel around $50for Daiwa pressto rod 5.6ft . I was thinking about a Qz 750 . What is your opinion please. Thank you in advance.
@@ifishcatfish I received.. I bought the Regal lt 2000 after watching your videos . Such a nice reel , I tuned the sound, now I m waiting for the presso rod to arrive.
which model was too wobbly? This is the second comment i get about this. I tried the 6'6 and that rod was anything but wobbly.. Someone else said that they have models made in korea and models made in china. I don't know if that has anything to do with it, but im telling you the rod i tried was very tight
With the St Croix legend elite now coming in at $425-510, is there a better alternative? I dont own any JDMs but was considering the Soare XR. I know that you love the rod, but you mentioned that sometimes the higher end rods feel like a toy/tooothpick for people new to that price range.
they used to cost the same but now JDM rods are actually cheaper than the LEP. For first rod right now i really recommend the Yamaga Blanks that i reviewed. Much cheaper than LEP and does not feel silly
Got the Okuma Special Edition Rod based off your review. It's a lovely rod! Thank you for recommending it! Have you tried the Bass Pro Shops Panfish Elite Spinning Rod?
yes I have! There is one model that is pretty good but i forgot which one. The other models are kind of wobbly even for me. But even in the best case model, that rod is a cheap blank and steel guides and should cost $30, not $60. It's basically the shakespeare micro series, with nicer handle
Dear I fish, do you know if there is any difference between the 1 & the 1.5 inch Slider swimbaits besides the length? Have you owned both and know this detail ? Very much appreciated 👍🏼
I have only fished the 1" and only recommend the 1". I get bass on it all the time. The trick is finding the right hook. U don't want a lot of wire hanging out.
TFO I have two 6’6” and two 7’0” footer I heard that gray Looims design theses rods bass and grass has them he loves them they are awesome I agree with that guy I have two abu Garcia I pay almost $950 for two of them from jdm it was so fragile i was afraid it might break on me I sold both of them I like st Croix legend elite panfish rod 7’0” I going to buy the 6’9” ft next
Hi Victor, have you ever tried any Phenix Rods? The Elixir 7’ 6” 2-6lb 3wt fast action is hands down the best all around ultralight rod and it’s $200 or under. You need to check one out.
If u want to send me one… otherwise its too heavy for me and i wont fish it and cant spend $200 just for review. But ive looked at them… they look too stiff but pretty. Will see if i can get someone to send me one
When you were reviewing the TFO rod you mentioned you preferred it over the sub $200 St Croix rods. St Croix came out with new Trout and Panfish rods the end of 2021. Were the comments intended for this newer version?
excellent question. I have not tried these rods but my gut tells me this rod is AT LEAST AS GOOD as those, but cheaper. I am not just saying that. St Croix premier is a shitty rod with cheap blank and cheap guides that should cost $40 and instead is priced at $100, so St Croix has a very bad attitude towards the low range rods. Or maybe it is the profits that dealers put on top. Either way their low end rods in my opinion are mispriced and i doubt these 2 new models will be different, unless St Croix got a new manager or something.
also the best model of the TFO is the 1 piece 6'6. Has the blank with fastest recovery. The 1 piece 6'0 is a little wobbly. Not bad but if u don't like that don't do it. But the 6'6 is amazing
@@ifishcatfish thanks I was at Fisherman's Wharehouse last weekend and compared the 6 foot versions of the St Croix Trout series, Phenix Elixir, Daiwa Presso, Okuma SST. Personally I felt the St Croix felt best for me cast 1/64 and less jigs or weighted Streamer flies. The Presso 6 foot UL was a close 2nd. I wish I could have compared them side by side with the TFO and the Leland rods.
I had two Shakespeare Micro Series rods, I gave them away because I felt like it was too fragile for me and the way I use rods. I prefer something more robust. Not the rods fault though, but the way I use my gear.
The original TFO Trout and Panfish rods were produced out of Korea and were a superior product over the new 2022 release from CHINA. The China made version has a thinner blank with significantly more sad wobble.
If I wanted to put a Stella 1000 on a rod to play with smaller spotted bass and large mouths, what rod would you suggest? Basically would be using it instead of a bfs setup. Looking for the drag screaming action you had recently with a 2lb spot
the Poison adrena or Yamaga Blanks. If u fish from the bank and can handle a longer rod, then the Shimano Soare XR is fantastic. They are all reviewed on the channel
You are so smart and funny! I love me some Walmart, but I ain’t too dumb to figure out all those “broken tips” musta come from 16 year olds at Walmart!
H I'm Australia Daiwa has the infeet range this is has a 7'6 UL with .5-4g casting. Apparently it's a tappeter on the slower side too who h I know you like.
im waiting for them to release something new and ima get one. I have been browsing them for two years now and there is always something that stops me. But soon.. soon there will be one. I see even Randy doesn't use any right now... most of their models are a little stiff, or the ones that are softer are too short. I want a 6'0 SUltralight..
@@troutmagnetman i was wondering why i haven't seen them lately. Bedford lake today was ... a day to remember. Tough bite, as u know, but the 5 bites I got were all trophy. several 9"+ bluegill and a 14'5" crappie. Seems to be the story in TN. If u find numbers, there is no size, and when the bite is tough u stumble on giants
I was able to snag the Blue Current III 82 version after waiting a year and I was pleased so far how good the rod is Im new to light tackle fishing but I was impressed how sensitive and how well the rod was able to cast light lures.
I want to thank you for recommending the 7ft light Shakespeare Micro Series rod. I've had it for 3 years now. I have rods that are close to $300, but I still use my $20 Micro Series
thats right. And the other day i found a 5'6 in walmart, and my gosh, this thing bends like the Belezza Prototype! Yes, a few grams more, but awesome action!
@@cincinnatiking8008 the 5’ 6” light has been my go to small stream trout rod for the last 4 years. Paired with a diawa legalis lt 1000 and it’s been a dream.
that depends on how much money u make. If u are young and make less than 60 000 a year, no, its not worth it. If u make over 100 k a year, yes, its worth it
@@ifishcatfish just a figure of speech,the Tfo 7ft is 102 grams and the 6.6 is 96 grams I couldn't find a 7ft kuying but the 6.6 was 81 grams, Great content you got onto the presso a few years ago!👍
dont get too hung on paper statistics. Im telling u u can't tell when u hold them in the hand one is heavier. The Kuying has higher end components, but the TFO is a US brand and u can buy it here and has name recognition and u can sell it one day. Who's gona buy aliexpress rod if u wana sell it?
Please I need your help I’m looking for a rod that can use mostly with jigs around 5 gr and twitching lures money is not a problem I just want something not very short I see some Shimano soare limited or yamaga tz nano but still can’t figure about
Great to watch this year's Buyer's Guide based on your extensive experience fishing these rods and reels on the water. Three JDM rods series in the $100-200 that are candidates worth checking out are: Rodiocraft's 99 Meister (the affordable version of the 9999 series), Valkein's Zero Verge series and Major Craft's Fine Tale series. Based on my limited comparisons, the Rodiocraft 99 is a bit softer than the Valkein rods with Major Craft in between.
thank you mr Alan, much appreciated! Also, who is ur all time favorite Sumo fighter?
Excellent stuff brother. You explain why you like stuff and you remain consistent. You are easy to understand. Thank you for sharing!!
Glad to see Temple Fork gettin some love on your channel!
Shakespeare micro 5'6" was my first rod reel combo, I got it at Walmart for $20. I fished it all the time and was catching 2-3lb bass all day with no problem. I agree, people don't use their gear correctly and also probably aren't setting the drag properly. Thanks for the buyers guide. I got the daiwa presso a couple years ago on your recommendation, it's fantastic.
I totally agree with the Shakespeare Micro Series rods and the price point. I will have to get the recommended Diawa Presso.
One of my favorite trout rods is a slow action Quantum 4’6” fiberglass rod one piece that seems indestructible and is fun to land fish on. I have a one piece Daiwa 5’6” too, but they are both ultra light for 1-4 line, which is good off a boat in the lake without cover……..but I also love the Shakespeare 7 foot micro…..light for 4-10lb line…..a ittle soft….which I like….but stiff enough at the tip, I can cast s spinner or jig. I am using a 20 year old Csrdinal center drag reel that is rated 150 yards for 6lb mono line………i am using 3lb test line on it…..it has a good drag and I don’t want to test that cheap Shakespeare rod too much, so 3lb test wth a good drag works……I got 2 of those reels on clearance 20 years ago at Walmart……I’d seen the ads in In=Fisherman magazine back then……oh….btw…….that avatar is not me….I am a man…and that is my wife. For some reason, this I Pad is configured for her.
You are probably right that your Presso rod video contributed to increased sales as I bought two 8 ft rods based on your video 3 yrs ago! They are beautiful rods. Keep up the good work! From one Victor to another Happy Thanksgiving! Hope Daiwa produces an 8ft rod for the Air AGS.
Thank you sir, much appreciated! And Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!
Thanks for the updated buyer's guide. After fishing the St. Croix Legend elite panfish Light power rod with Shimano Vanford 2000, I have to say it is my favorite spinning setup. However, since I got my mother into spinning rods and lures(l custom paint my own ), It has pretty much been in her hands. We took it out today and she caught 9 bass, 4 bluegill, and 2 crappie (one of which was 13oz and 12"). Not only is it fun to fight the little guys, it is able to pull in some good size fish.
Since I hardly get to use the St. Croix now, I picked up a BFS Rod and reel (Diawa gekkabijin air TW PE and Old18 Bouancy UL rod), which has been alot of fun for panfish and bass. This setup is actually able to cast a trout magnet pretty well for a casting rod/reel.
yes, some BFS will now cast a trout magnet just fine, ON AVERAGE. Key word is ON AVERAGE. No matter how careful you are, you are gona have issues a few times a day, and that can cost u line and time and frustration. U can cast 50 times in a row fine, and it takes one cast to ruin your line or spend 15 min untangling. And then, even if it was fine... fighting crappie on BFS is just no fun. Only slow clicking felt drag of a spinning reel gives me the thrill : )
I very much trust your reviews. You got me wanting the Shimano Ultegra. I used to like cheap Shimano reels, because I don’t do much fancy fishing or fish very often, because until I retire in a few years, I like to play golf more…….but I am getting my mind ready for retirement and looking to be ready with my equipment. A few years ago, I was n Walmart and they had Okiuma Avenger reels for $5 on clearance and a Pfluger president for $15…which I gave to my friend. I’ve never used them…my guess is that they are ok, but my favorite reels so far were an DS Daiwa whisker and Pinmacle that I had 20 years ago. I have neither now…..but they were my taste of higher end reels…..but quite honestly…..for 12 inch stocker trout, the Shimano IX is good enough!
Ultegra is great!
Great video Victor. I really appreciate the rod guides because unlike reels, rods aren’t as black and white as daiwa and shimano. Kinda bummed that there was no 100-350 range as that’s exactly what I’m looking for right now and theres just so many options to choose from, but I respect that you don’t report any as the experience you had wasn’t good. The search continues. Happy thanksgiving to you and your family!
you nailed it, rods are not as black and white, and there is too many, not like reels. Everybody buys blanks and guides from Mudhole.com and glues them together and calls it a new 'Brand'. But try to make a reel nicer than Legalis, and for $60! Try that! : ) That's why there isn't much competition for the reels..
I have a reliable source from Japan, a guy who mails me everything i buy from Japan. I pinned his comment. Go check it out. He suggested a few rods and I trust him 100%
Thanks for going through so many different rods. And your explanations for each rod really helps. This is one had to watch it twice and took a note thanks! Happy thanksgiving leftover day!!
thanks Dave! Im fishing today, did all shopping already! : )
@@ifishcatfish digitaka parts for reels is working again! Got spool for my vanquish for crazy good price! Happy Holiday season!
Very good recommendations. Victor, I definetly appreciate your point of view I've watched many of your videos and purchased your tackle all good.
I even just purchased a Shimano Soare XR S610L-S 2 piece rod based on your comments with regard to the construction and aesthetic. It is a wonderful rod and know you did not recommend this particular model but I wanted something other than a dedicated ultralight rod. Build is fantastic, feels good in hand. But 2 things it is made in China not Japan. And the that solid tip makes it extra fast. Thanks again love the channel carry on sir.
Thank you sir. Yes, solid tip always makes rods extra fast action, that that is precisely why i don't recommend it. As for made in Japan - did i say it was made in Japan? If i talk about JDM, that means that the rod is made FOR Japan, not IN japan. The Eradicator is perfect example - perhaps the best ultralight rod ever made, but it was made in China, but it was a Japanese Domestic Market ONLY rod. It spilled out of japan due to some flattering reviews, but when a company makes a rod that they put for sale only on Shimano Japan, thats a JDM rod. If you see the same model sold in USA, like Poison Adrena - thats not a JDM rod
@@ifishcatfish No you never said the Soare was made in Japan. Kind of caught me off guard I should have been more thorough with my research. Just like the spec on the rod indicates "fast" and not extra fast now I know. This rod is paired with a Daiwa Luvias FC LT2500S-XH with some PE #4 braid. It cast very well with a 1/8 crappie Jig head.
It's a very nice combination Thanks again for the content you provide it definetly helped me out.
@@texbaz2 no worries at all
I was no where near planning to buy another rod... but watching your video, I ended up getting a TCB rod. Currently own a 7'6 Presso UL, and 6'6 TFO Panfish UL.
well u have my value segment covered up.
As always GREAT review, I really enjoy your insight on the ultra lights & first hand experience.
thanks buddy!
Which rods can cast trout magnets the farthest for (1/64; 1/32) twitching technique? Farthest casting rod for floating (1/64; 1/32) tm? Farthest casting for micro cranks (1/64;1/32)? Thanks for the great reviews - best there is.
Rods that are good for twitching have a sharp tip, so u can play the trout magnet with small twitches. But if you want a sharp tip, the rod cannot be very long. Even worse is for 1/64, because it requires very soft blank to load up with such small weight, but soft blank that is long is a recipe for wobble. For twitching a trout magnet don't expect long distances and that is that. The best, like I said in the video, are the B&M TCB rod and the TFO, and even the aliexpress rod. Now, if u don't need to twitch it, then u can have a long blank, because the tip doesn't have to be so sharp. For float fishing and casting very light swimbaits the best is the Presso rod. I don't recommend the 6 footer, because it is too soft, but if you want a rod that is specialist for 1/64 lures, then it would be amazing. For 1/32 i would get the 7' presso for max distance. For float fishing, i would go with the 7'6 even.
Happy Thanksgiving Vic. Yet another great video. I'm totally happy with my line of Shakespeare Micro Series rods. I have 4'6", 5', 5'6'', 6'6" and 7" models and have NO problem putting my Vanquish C2000S and C2000SHG on them. I also have the TFO 6' and 6'6" Ultralight's with my Stella fj 1000 and Stradic 1000fl. Love the TFO's for Trout!
Vanquish on the Micro! That's awesome!! Email me a picture, put the rod and reel on the grass and a fish next to them, and I will put it in my video!
@@ifishcatfish I'm afraid it will have to wait until spring. I'm snowed in here in N.W. P.A.😪
Thank you for this video! I've always enjoyed your honest review and opinions on rods and reels! I decided to buy a daiwa legalist lt 2000 size. I like that size better than the 1,000 size
Most people do, which is why both Daiwa and Shimano make mostly 2000 and very few 1000 models of this same body
Thanks you saved me a lot of time and money.
my dad got a 5,6 shakespeare rod and i was surprised how good and the bend of that rod is and i caught a big fish on it... light version but the back bone is so good.... for 20 bucks it blew me away ..i will get a light version of it cant beat that for 20 bucks and for some reason the action on this rods are very good and hate to say it but blows other rods out there that cost 10 times lol..
I can't believe I missed this video when it came out. Victor I kept seeing great reviews on the Shimano Zodias so I bought one in a medium light 6'9 a couple of weeks ago and paired it up with the Vanford. I wanted something for Walleye. That rod feels amazing and although I love my Presso, I decided to order another Zodias in a 7' light. It's not here yet but I'm hoping it will be a perfect match for the trout magnet. The medium light has very little wobble so I'm hoping the light is similar but better suited for Crappie and Gills. I hate buying those without holding one first but they are not anywhere around where I live to go look at. If the light feels as nice as the medium light in my hands I will be very happy.
Its a pretty rod but comes from a bass heritage and ive always been afraidnits on the stiff side. Let me know the true power
You might like the TenRyu lunakia 610 mlt. It is tubular tip plus it is made in Japan if you care where the rod is made. I love using it for crappies. It is not as comfy as the soare xr but nevertheless it is sensitive rod.
I'm sure it is as they don't make average products. But at this point I don't have a use for ML power rod
great rod and reel videos thanks,
my fav UL combo Legalis 1000 and a 13 fishing defy silver great handle and action
solid combo. You should try some other rods under $100 from this video!
You’re the reason I found out about the presso lol
I have the 6’ though
Ive heard that before! :)
i agree with you i love the Shakespeare micro rods i got the 5-6 ul and 7 foot version as well had them both for 3 years and caught huge fish on them and there still holding up i got a lews laser hs micro 5-6 ul and its a close second of one of my favorites for under 50 bucks one rod i bought recently was the new lews light mr crappie thunder that rod is to stiff for a spinning rod for panfish and the handle is bad the rod from the tip to handle is vary unbalanced i don't no why they just stuck with what worked for them in the slab shaker series witch i love in there spinning rod are great but the crappie thunder stinks i also like the eagle claw lite ul series rod and bass proshops the tiny lite rods to great budget rods as well great videos thumbs up
Nice review! Thanks 👍
I truly like you videos. Great info every time. I would recommend you to try a rod in the range of UL-L. It's pretty cheap but insanely capable. If you can find the Okuma psycho-perch, I would gladly want to see what you think of it. It has a fast action but with a softer tip. I mainly use it for chub fishing with small crankbaits. I even caught a 28 Inch asp with it and it absorbed the shock of the bite amazingly well.
i trust your judgement, but look at my fish... what would I fish with it? Also this rod is probably only sold in Europe..
I’m currently using a Leland’s tcb rod but wanting another ultralight. What’s the best rod for twitching a trout magnet under 100$. I was already looking at the TFO trout and panfish.
u gona have to go up in price. There is not much under $100 with a sharp tip. Shimano Sensilite is nice, but I don't think its nicer than the TCB rod. The TFO rod is nicer for other stuff, but probably not for trout magnet.
@@ifishcatfish what’s your recommendation? I may be able to expand my budget. Great videos by the way, you and trout magnet man are two of my favorite ultralight fishermen
i am afraid i don't have any secrets... all my recommendations are in the video..
@@ifishcatfish thanks for the time. Keep the awesome reviews coming
Thanks for the informative review. Have a great Thanksgiving Victor.
Thanks for your support bud, i always see u inthe comments! Happy Holidays!
I've got a new Prorex E 2-8 grams for 50 bucks from 100 retail price and i've paird it with a Mitchell MX 9 (all magnesium, 170 grams) that was 100 bucks from 170 originally. I use the combo with a 3 kg line ant 2-3 grams jigs with 4-5 cm lures, and it's perfect. For 150 bucks i have a combo that it's perfect for perches, chubs and sanders but last Sunday i've managed to land a 110 cm fat catfish after 20 minutes of fight. Now i am waiting for a casting rod (EFFZETT Optimus 2) in 5-15 grams, that i've paid 59 bucks from 150 bucks all new. Fishing doesn't have to be expensive if you search enough for those sales.
sounds like European tackle..
@@ifishcatfish indeed. I am from Romania but i'm living in France. The only USA gear that i have are the Penn reels and rod. We have some good gear here in Europe.
Why do you recommend a longer pole for slip bombers and float fishing?
how do u float fish 12 feet deep with 6 foot rod? Fixed float is impossible. And even with slipping float, the stopper would have to come onto the spool itself, and then you are trying to cast with a GIANT KNOT right on top of the spool. You need to make 3 casts because of the first two the knot grabbed the line and the line didnt come out of the spool. There are other reasons, less important... like float fishing is done with slack line. Then when u see a bite and want to set the hook, there is a big belly of line in front, and its hard to set hook w 6 foot rod..
@@ifishcatfish I see, that makes since.
I float fish ponds and creeks seldom over 5' in my area. I use a 5' pole because of tree limbs. Even then my float is not longer than 4'
I haven't fished fresh deep water yet with a bobber.
Thanks
I'm trying to find a nice, action less than 100 pole for fishing creeks..
Preferably 2 piece. The one I have seems to miss a lot of hook sets. And sends my bobber flying back towards me.
Are blue gill mouths so hard that the light pole action may not set the hook?
Great advice. What specific rods would you recommend for throwing Trout Magnets? I also don’t mind spending some money. But I don’t want to overspend either.
i don't have experience with mid range rods. I have a LONG playlist with high end rods and a good amount of budget rods, but nothing in the middle. I hate the middle. A lot of money but none of the high end components. At least with the budget u know its budget.
What would you recommend in the high end range with respect to a rod for throwing trout magnets?
Nice work.
I would like to see you get your hands on the Edge rods Finesse with 0 and 1 power. I was impressed at the Sac. Int. Sportsman Expo. They are 6’8”. I preferred at least 7’ or longer rods for boat application.
what is different or special about those rods?
@@ifishcatfish the flex of the rod. I think the sensitivity is on par with most premium rods. Although I have not fish with them yet.
Great video, thank you for sharing your wealth of information on ultra light fishing. Have a great day.
thank you sir!
Hello, good work, perfect video. Have you ever tried the G.Loomis GCX Lite Ultra Light rods? For example GCX 7200S SR or GCX 7800S SR? Best.
the new ones? Not yet but i can tell from the images they are overpriced.
How about the Ugly stick carbon crappie?
No Ugly stick for ANY ultralight fishing please!
Buy the 7ft and 6ft 6 tfo 1 pc I work at sportsman’s as a fishing associate I own both they are my favorite for crappie and smallmouth Paired with a daiwa Legalis spooled with anywhere from 2 to 4 pound nanobraid from suffix 2in Berkeley powerbait ripple shad 1/64oz troutmagnet jig happy thanksgiving 🦃
+ 10!
What travel rod would you recommend to pair with a Stella 1000
Dont know anything about travel rods but i recommend watching Tactical Bassings channel. Search for travel. He made a good video aboutnit and he has tried the best
@@ifishcatfish thank you
Hi please can i ask you. What is better to go ? Choose reel weight for the balance with rod. Od lightest reel as possible for the lightest combo together ? Balance ? Or lightness combo ? Fishinh stile 4-7 gram jigs with lure. Thx
well best is light AND balanced. But if you can't afford light, then make sure it is balanced, and if it is balanced the weight will not bother u
What do you think about the uglystick elite and basspro elite? looking for something for trout fishing. Normally use carolina rig for powerbait or throw some 1/4 Oz spoons
Uglysticks are heavy and dead feeling. I have so many cheap options in my video; just pick some if those for trout fishing. Ugly sticks are for catfish
@ifishcatfish thank you! Great videos man!
What you recommend for float fishing with a minnow for crappie what size rod
Daiwa presso is the best for that. Size is up to u. 8 foot pribably or 7’6
@@ifishcatfish thanks
@@ifishcatfish 7/6 out of stock everywhere what's the next best size for slip floating a minnow or next brand and size
Wow Victor, you are on fire with videos delivering! As a European guy you are familiar with Sportex rods. I would like to hear or read your take on them.
sorry bud, never heard...
Daiwa 22 Presso Air AGS 510XUL is this the presso one you are talking about?
i think their is a UL version as well, so i was just wondering.
watch my review of this rod to see the difference between the two models. They are both good, but action is different. But u can't go wrong either way
@@ifishcatfish i ordered the xult version today, i re-watched your video and seen it on the rod.
thanks much for your reply victor, always watch your videos.
@@myth-hc9df i appreciate that
Can you please recommend a Daiwa reel around $50for Daiwa pressto rod 5.6ft .
I was thinking about a Qz 750 .
What is your opinion please.
Thank you in advance.
Regal lt
@@ifishcatfish thank you
@@ifishcatfish I received.. I bought the Regal lt 2000 after watching your videos .
Such a nice reel , I tuned the sound, now I m waiting for the presso rod to arrive.
Have you ever tried g loomis ultralight rods
No. Donthey have a new
Model? Ive only seen some very old rods from them that im sure will not compare to new rods
@@ifishcatfish yes they just came out with the GCX light spinning rods
The tfo rod is beautiful green carbon. But too wobbly for me. I’m thinking of getting and old 18 suppressor UL BFS rod
which model was too wobbly? This is the second comment i get about this. I tried the 6'6 and that rod was anything but wobbly.. Someone else said that they have models made in korea and models made in china. I don't know if that has anything to do with it, but im telling you the rod i tried was very tight
The TFO is my favorite, but they’ve updated it now and it’s hideous looking with metallic, lime green. I’m sure it feels the same however.
really? I haven't seen that. Have to check it now..
With the St Croix legend elite now coming in at $425-510, is there a better alternative? I dont own any JDMs but was considering the Soare XR. I know that you love the rod, but you mentioned that sometimes the higher end rods feel like a toy/tooothpick for people new to that price range.
they used to cost the same but now JDM rods are actually cheaper than the LEP. For first rod right now i really recommend the Yamaga Blanks that i reviewed. Much cheaper than LEP and does not feel silly
How do you feel about Phenix Products? I have seen videos but it is hard to see the bend and action since people cut to fish catching.
seem big and heavy. But pretty. But not ultralight power, more like ML.
I have a Mikado I said trout are rod which was very cheap on waveinn. Give it a look, not expensive
I love my Shakespeare rod micro I taken 5 lb bass with get lucky get a good one
Got the Okuma Special Edition Rod based off your review. It's a lovely rod! Thank you for recommending it! Have you tried the Bass Pro Shops Panfish Elite Spinning Rod?
yes I have! There is one model that is pretty good but i forgot which one. The other models are kind of wobbly even for me. But even in the best case model, that rod is a cheap blank and steel guides and should cost $30, not $60. It's basically the shakespeare micro series, with nicer handle
Dear I fish, do you know if there is any difference between the 1 & the 1.5 inch Slider swimbaits besides the length? Have you owned both and know this detail ? Very much appreciated 👍🏼
I have only fished the 1" and only recommend the 1". I get bass on it all the time. The trick is finding the right hook. U don't want a lot of wire hanging out.
TFO I have two 6’6” and two 7’0” footer I heard that gray Looims design theses rods bass and grass has them he loves them they are awesome I agree with that guy I have two abu Garcia I pay almost $950 for two of them from jdm it was so fragile i was afraid it might break on me I sold both of them I like st Croix legend elite panfish rod 7’0” I going to buy the 6’9” ft next
which rods are u talking about?
Temple fork outfitters
That’s why I put TFO
@@raymondjohnson6496 oh.. sorry :)
Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃
happy Thanksgiving bud!
Hi Victor, have you ever tried any Phenix Rods? The Elixir 7’ 6” 2-6lb 3wt fast action is hands down the best all around ultralight rod and it’s $200 or under. You need to check one out.
If u want to send me one… otherwise its too heavy for me and i wont fish it and cant spend $200 just for review. But ive looked at them… they look too stiff but pretty. Will see if i can get someone to send me one
When you were reviewing the TFO rod you mentioned you preferred it over the sub $200 St Croix rods. St Croix came out with new Trout and Panfish rods the end of 2021. Were the comments intended for this newer version?
excellent question. I have not tried these rods but my gut tells me this rod is AT LEAST AS GOOD as those, but cheaper. I am not just saying that. St Croix premier is a shitty rod with cheap blank and cheap guides that should cost $40 and instead is priced at $100, so St Croix has a very bad attitude towards the low range rods. Or maybe it is the profits that dealers put on top. Either way their low end rods in my opinion are mispriced and i doubt these 2 new models will be different, unless St Croix got a new manager or something.
also the best model of the TFO is the 1 piece 6'6. Has the blank with fastest recovery. The 1 piece 6'0 is a little wobbly. Not bad but if u don't like that don't do it. But the 6'6 is amazing
@@ifishcatfish thanks I was at Fisherman's Wharehouse last weekend and compared the 6 foot versions of the St Croix Trout series, Phenix Elixir, Daiwa Presso, Okuma SST. Personally I felt the St Croix felt best for me cast 1/64 and less jigs or weighted Streamer flies. The Presso 6 foot UL was a close 2nd. I wish I could have compared them side by side with the TFO and the Leland rods.
@@johnr153 which st croix are u talkinga bout
@@ifishcatfish the Trout Series MSRP $155
I had two Shakespeare Micro Series rods, I gave them away because I felt like it was too fragile for me and the way I use rods. I prefer something more robust. Not the rods fault though, but the way I use my gear.
more robust than ultralight? the rod has IM6 blank and steel guides... its not that fragile
@@ifishcatfish I am very rough with my gear, haha!
The original TFO Trout and Panfish rods were produced out of Korea and were a superior product over the new 2022 release from CHINA. The China made version has a thinner blank with significantly more sad wobble.
didnt know that. Now i dont know which version i tested in sportsman warehouse..
If I wanted to put a Stella 1000 on a rod to play with smaller spotted bass and large mouths, what rod would you suggest? Basically would be using it instead of a bfs setup. Looking for the drag screaming action you had recently with a 2lb spot
the Poison adrena or Yamaga Blanks. If u fish from the bank and can handle a longer rod, then the Shimano Soare XR is fantastic. They are all reviewed on the channel
@@ifishcatfish yamaga makes ultra lights? Heck ya
@@saleen12 it makes some of the best ultralights out there. Check my reviews
@@ifishcatfish you reviewed the poison adrena?
You are so smart and funny! I love me some Walmart, but I ain’t too dumb to figure out all those “broken tips” musta come from 16 year olds at Walmart!
yup
Very honest video
thank you
H I'm Australia Daiwa has the infeet range this is has a 7'6 UL with .5-4g casting. Apparently it's a tappeter on the slower side too who h I know you like.
interesting. Can u paste a link?
Hi victor! Have you fished with any yamaga blanks rods? What do you think of them?
im waiting for them to release something new and ima get one. I have been browsing them for two years now and there is always something that stops me. But soon.. soon there will be one. I see even Randy doesn't use any right now... most of their models are a little stiff, or the ones that are softer are too short. I want a 6'0 SUltralight..
@@ifishcatfish sold mine. Wish many times I still had them.
@@troutmagnetman i was wondering why i haven't seen them lately. Bedford lake today was ... a day to remember. Tough bite, as u know, but the 5 bites I got were all trophy. several 9"+ bluegill and a 14'5" crappie. Seems to be the story in TN. If u find numbers, there is no size, and when the bite is tough u stumble on giants
I was able to snag the Blue Current III 82 version after waiting a year and I was pleased so far how good the rod is
Im new to light tackle fishing but I was impressed how sensitive and how well the rod was able to cast light lures.
1piece 4’6”micro rod for $17.99 at Walmart near me. I like one piece and it has nice action…..but I passed on it
a bit short that...
I want to thank you for recommending the 7ft light Shakespeare Micro Series rod. I've had it for 3 years now. I have rods that are close to $300, but I still use my $20 Micro Series
thats right. And the other day i found a 5'6 in walmart, and my gosh, this thing bends like the Belezza Prototype! Yes, a few grams more, but awesome action!
@@ifishcatfish is that a 5'6" light power? I'll have to go grab one this week
@@cincinnatiking8008 yes.
@@cincinnatiking8008 the 5’ 6” light has been my go to small stream trout rod for the last 4 years. Paired with a diawa legalis lt 1000 and it’s been a dream.
Do you think this rod is worth 300?
which rod?
@@ifishcatfish sorry, I meant to comment in a different video. But I was talking about the shimano soare xr
that depends on how much money u make. If u are young and make less than 60 000 a year, no, its not worth it. If u make over 100 k a year, yes, its worth it
@@ifishcatfish thank you
Do you not recommend the eradicatior rod? I’m just wondering why you didn’t mention it in the buyers guide.
Well its gone everywhere. Whats the point of recommending an old rod thats impossible to find. Just to annoy people?
Happy Thanksgiving from your previous hometown of Chicago!🦃🎣👍🏻
much love from TN!!!
The Tfo rod is beautiful but is twice as heavy as the kuying!
thats impossible. I haven't weighed them but they feel very similar. The kuying is actually ever so slightly tip heavy
@@ifishcatfish just a figure of speech,the Tfo 7ft is 102 grams and the 6.6 is 96 grams I couldn't find a 7ft kuying but the 6.6 was 81 grams, Great content you got onto the presso a few years ago!👍
dont get too hung on paper statistics. Im telling u u can't tell when u hold them in the hand one is heavier. The Kuying has higher end components, but the TFO is a US brand and u can buy it here and has name recognition and u can sell it one day. Who's gona buy aliexpress rod if u wana sell it?
@@ifishcatfish yeah I hear you I have the higher end kuying ttsl 5 10 it's 53 grams paired with a Vanford 500 it's like holding nothing!
gobble gobble!
You can get a Soare XR for 25000 yens now
where?
@@ifishcatfish It is 27000 at Amazon JP and 25000 at Rakuten with coupon.
🙋 🙋
Please I need your help I’m looking for a rod that can use mostly with jigs around 5 gr and twitching lures money is not a problem I just want something not very short I see some Shimano soare limited or yamaga tz nano but still can’t figure about
those two would be my choice. If you want over 7 foot, go with the Soare XR 7'6 Tubular. If u want 6'7 go with the Yamaga blanks TZ Nano UL.