I always enjoy your content Ethan! While we have a stretch of very nice weather coming up here in Minnesota, I fear my kayak fishing days are over for this year. I may visit a few local ponds for some shore fishing, but when the season changes here, it's usually quick, and I don't ice fish :). Switching from fishing mode to model airplane building mode soon :). Cheers!
Ethan. You should do a year end review of all the rods you tried this year. What you liked and disliked. And what you still have in your lineup. That would be a cool video for the upcoming holiday season. Kind of like a buyers guide.
Nice to see you getting out on the water this late in the year. I was on that same lake about a week ago (I recognized the docks) and tried my hand at the polar opposite of baits. I tried my hand at 6" glide baits. I'm going to try and get out at least one more time this year, but I know my opportunities are getting less and less with each passing day.
i just picked up the Kage and I would say that my biggest selling point is supporting my local tackle shops and that they had a nice line up to hold and feel. The cork handle details are also a plus. i think that we can be frugal with things here and there, but if one continues to walk into our local shops and say they are too expensive, then they have no right to complain when they are gone. Talk to your dealers, work with them or they will be gone.
Definitely love to support local shops! Whether it is a Kage or any other piece of equipment, it is always wonderful to help drive the local economy and fishing community.
Missing the casting and blasting intro. Thanks for the gear reviews. My current favorite UL reel is the Kastking Zephyr SFS 1000 with light braid, have it paired with a 4'6" Ugly Stik Lite-Pro UL rod.
Great video review. Definitely trying out the micro braids. Like the casting distance from 4# line. Just haven't got the nerve yet for 2# line. Thanks Ethan
Basing on your comments about the comparison , I like the dobyns having a bit more bend even both rod are rated fast. I have the dobyns 7’4” sierra in casting and I love it. 17 ring guides, the handles are properly engineered
Would love to see a review on Eurotackle’s Micro finesse braid. They go all the way down to 4lb test and i think that’d be great for those 1/64oz and smaller jigs. Im definitely gonna pick some up soon for my setup 🤙
Thank you for another awesome video Just got my new PB Black crappie on a 1/32 ounce mule jig and the donkey tail Junior in black.13.75 just shy of 2 pounds Thank you for putting out an awesome product
After hearing your thoughts, glad I held out for a legalis to come in stock at the beginning of the year. I almost settled on a Kalon, but something about it, just seemed off to me.
Could you compare the Majorcraft finetail fax area (63SUL) you have against the diawa kage (611ULS) both fast action? I’m stuck in deciding which one to purchase. Thanks! Love your videos as them have been informative and encouraging me to go after panfish or just using an ultralight in general.
They are definitely very different sticks. I personally prefer the Kage as it is a solid-tipped rod with a much faster action and I find that it is more sensitive. The Finetail is a bit more whippy down the blank so it is probably more versatile if you plan to fish little treble hooked baits and stuff.
The Temple Fork is my favorite for versatility. I think it is a Fast but definitely not as fast as these solid-tipped rods so I personally think its a good option. If you want something less Fast than that, you may look at the Fenwick Eagle.
I'm actually thinking about pairing up the dobyns colt panfish special with a kastking zephyr SFS. It's more of a light rod but putting a plastic on a 1/32oz jig head gets closer to the 1/16oz range probably anyway. I love messing around and exploring with my ugly stik dock runner.
@@FishAnything will do! Been doing some research on more affordable reels besides kastking to pair with it. Apparently Piscifun reels are made in the same Chinese factory that daiwa uses for their Chinese made reels🤔 the Piscifun carbon x spinning reel also apparently uses the same frame materials that daiwa uses in their Tatula lt spinning reels. Looking closely at the rotors side by side they seem to have similar designs as well. Also the Piscifun carbon x’s handle screws directly into the reel like my daiwa fuego and exceler. I may have to get the carbon x in the 1000 size to try out with the colt panfish rod. It’s not a combo that’s going to get a ton of use so I can’t bring myself to go all out. Lord knows my gf thinks I have way more than enough expensive gear than I can even use 🤣
Great video as always, but I got a question about two other rods. Daiwa presso or tfo trout and panfish? Will be throwing 1/64-1/16, which is better for the money?
I had the 5'6 4pc travel Presso and LOVED IT. But honestly, I think these rods are pretty even so I don't think you can go wrong either way. I would probably lean Daiwa if you're choosing 6' or less. If you're going over 6' I would choose TFO.
@@FishAnything thanks so much for the info. After watching yours and troutmagnetman’s video I’m trying to talk myself off the ledge for the major craft finetail 6’3” SUL. I think I’m still going to end up the tfo path cause it’s hard to pay close to double the price without putting one in hand to get a feel.
Wanting to place an order for your baits. But having a hard time figuring out what size jig heads to use. Wanting to get the horse fly and the donkey tail jr. what would be the best size and or color to get
Depends on the situation, but I would say you can't go wrong with a 1/32oz Mule Jig with both of those plastics. I like a little variety for colors but I would suggest some natural, some bright. Maybe a pack of black jigs & one of the brighter options, then a couple plastics in the more natural hues / couple in the brighter hues. Feel free to reach out with more specific questions/information and I will help as best I can!
Placing a big order for my self for Christmas. Can’t wait to get them and try them out. I’m sure I won’t be disappointed!! Also tried your set up got me a tfo 6 foot UL and the Sedona 1000 love the set up. Love your videos can’t stop watching them keep it up. Ps be on the look for my order might though in a hat for me on my order lol!
I have used it and prefer smoother braid varieties because the casting distance is better for UL gear. J braid and spro are both smoother in my experience.
I currently have the 5'6" Defy and the 6' TFO Ultralight. I keep looking and lusting at the Dobyns. What would I be gaining by adding it to the arsenal?
I don't know that you will add a lot to your arsenal by having another rod. I think the Dobyns would definitely be your favorite stick if you upgraded, but the other two can technically do the same things. Just not quite as high quality of components on those rods. My goal with these ultralight rod videos is not to make people think they need tons of gear, but rather to steer people into the right gear for them. You could always sell or donate your Defy and upgrade to the Dobyns if you decided you wanted the additional sensitivity / faster rod tip.
@@FishAnything Thanks for the advice. I think you've done a great job of highlighting the fact that we don't NEED tons of gear or expensive equipment. With that being said, you know how tempting new rods and reels are. Thanks again, don't change a thing. Keep doing what you're doing.
: } both rods and reels seem like they're pretty nice and great quality too. Also both are also the same price. Can't argue with that, that's for sure. like always great fish catching too
What 2lb line are you using? I’m a fan of Sunline monofilament. Extremely thin diameter for the lb rating. The 4lb is 0.006 in. or 0.165 mm And it’s very “silicone” and soft feeling as it doesn’t retain much memory and is easy to handle. Made in Japan!
I might have to check into that Sunline Mono! I haven't seen it in 2lb. I use Trilene Sensation for my Co-Polymer (mono) and I was testing a Varivas Blue Moon for the fluorocarbon.
@@FishAnything The trilene sensation is 0.006 in. for 2lb, so you get a bit more strength for the same diameter with the Sunline. I think you’ll really like it!
These two do a similar job as long as you use a low diameter line. I like a fast action rod with a soft tip in the 6'-6'4 range for casting micro baits.
Still waiting on that Lew’s HS 5.6ft UL video lol. You can find them only at Walmart and they are only $34. Best budget UL. Hands down. The only negative I can find about it is the color. It’s yellow but it’s a great rod otherwise.
I have fished the St Croix Panfish Series and the Legend Elite but never the Premier. I feel like St Croix makes great rods. They are a bit tip heavy for my liking but definitely a great product.
Based on your dock shooting those rods def look like they are on the light side and not ultra-light. The bend looks very similar to the Ozark Trail OTX 5.6ft light. That’s a good rod but I wish the front cork covered more surface in front of the reel. Great rod for $34 though.
You love that rod! Haha I’ll get one soon. And they are both true ultralight but are extremely fast due to the solid tip. Such a great setup for jig fishing.
@@FishAnything yeah, I do like it a lot. I prob talk about it too much lol. I just like quality products that don’t break the bank. I have bought a lot of rod and reels to find what I think is the best bang for the buck. My favorite budget reel is the Quantum Throttle II. I actually have the 6.6ft combo and the 1000 reel. The reel is only $50-60 and it has an aluminum frame, 11BBs, direct connect (not cross hex) aluminum crank handle. My only critique is that it’s a little heavy due to that aluminum frame. I also love the Diawa Regal, amazing bang for your buck.
Do you get twice the pleasure of using the Dobyns Sierra over the TFO panfish rod (since the double in price)? Also, knowing that the Dobyns Sierra exist, if you are only able to acquire the TFO, would you be completely content with it?
If I only owned one ultralight to do everything, the TFO would likely be at the top of my list. The Dobyns is hands-down my favorite for ultralight jig fishing though. Just depends on what you plan to do. If you mostly fish jigs, I think the Dobyns is unbeatable. If you fish a little bit of everything, go with the TFO.
I price everything as best I can from the start as opposed to running discounts. I prefer to avoid confusing shoppers and making them second-guess the pricing throughout the year. Thanks for your interest!
I've really been enjoying the 13 Fishing Source K as a budget friendly reel. It's around $30 and handles just as well as the Shimano Sienna or the Daiwa Revros. I really want to try out the Dobyns. It looks interesting.
This Kalon made me feel worse about 13. Not sure I will pick up another of their reels anytime soon. Clunky, drag is iffy, feels a bit cheap. The Daiwa/Shimano reels of equal price points feel much better.
Yep, it cost about $80 for me to replace since it was my fault. Otherwise it would just be the cost of shipping if it is the rod's fault. And they let you send in just the logo portion which cuts down on cost.
![2021 Ultralight Rod Breakdown! [Comparing All My Ultralights]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/oSWVCoCG-54/mqdefault.jpg)
Really having some bad times. Thanks for your videos definitely boosting and making today better!! Thanks again and God Bless 🙏
Sorry to hear that. I am glad the videos help - hang in there Miguel!
Stay up brother. I'm finally somewhat out of a yearlong funk, you can be too.
I always enjoy your content Ethan! While we have a stretch of very nice weather coming up here in Minnesota, I fear my kayak fishing days are over for this year. I may visit a few local ponds for some shore fishing, but when the season changes here, it's usually quick, and I don't ice fish :). Switching from fishing mode to model airplane building mode soon :). Cheers!
Cold weather always makes me sad from a fishing standpoint. But I also kind of like winter in a way. All seasons have their pros and cons.
Ethan. You should do a year end review of all the rods you tried this year. What you liked and disliked. And what you still have in your lineup.
That would be a cool video for the upcoming holiday season. Kind of like a buyers guide.
Great suggestion! I will look into this :)
Nice to see you getting out on the water this late in the year. I was on that same lake about a week ago (I recognized the docks) and tried my hand at the polar opposite of baits. I tried my hand at 6" glide baits. I'm going to try and get out at least one more time this year, but I know my opportunities are getting less and less with each passing day.
I still plan to do a big bait series eventually. We need to get out and chuck some glides around :)
i just picked up the Kage and I would say that my biggest selling point is supporting my local tackle shops and that they had a nice line up to hold and feel. The cork handle details are also a plus. i think that we can be frugal with things here and there, but if one continues to walk into our local shops and say they are too expensive, then they have no right to complain when they are gone. Talk to your dealers, work with them or they will be gone.
Definitely love to support local shops! Whether it is a Kage or any other piece of equipment, it is always wonderful to help drive the local economy and fishing community.
Thanks for the video. Always enjoyable.
Thanks Paul!!
Awesome video! Both those rods look amazing!
They are both stellar rods!!
Great vid. I get a lot out of your rod and reel reviews.
Glad you like them!!
Missing the casting and blasting intro. Thanks for the gear reviews. My current favorite UL reel is the Kastking Zephyr SFS 1000 with light braid, have it paired with a 4'6" Ugly Stik Lite-Pro UL rod.
Sounds like a fun setup! Maybe I will say casting/blasting again someday lol
Great video review. Definitely trying out the micro braids. Like the casting distance from 4# line. Just haven't got the nerve yet for 2# line. Thanks Ethan
Thanks Brian! Yep, low diameter is critical for distance!
I sometimes use 3lb ice line
Basing on your comments about the comparison , I like the dobyns having a bit more bend even both rod are rated fast. I have the dobyns 7’4” sierra in casting and I love it. 17 ring guides, the handles are properly engineered
Nice BFS rod for sure. Feels about the same as the spinning model :)
Would love to see a review on Eurotackle’s Micro finesse braid. They go all the way down to 4lb test and i think that’d be great for those 1/64oz and smaller jigs. Im definitely gonna pick some up soon for my setup 🤙
Probably some good stuff, I’ll keep that in mind! Thanks
Great video as always.
Thanks Matt, I hope all is well!
I like the Sufix's Nanobraid and Berkley's Nanofil for lighter spinning setups, I'm excited to get more into the ultralight/micro world of fishing.
I have a spool of sufix nano braid I’m excited to try!
Thank you for another awesome video Just got my new PB Black crappie on a 1/32 ounce mule jig and the donkey tail Junior in black.13.75 just shy of 2 pounds
Thank you for putting out an awesome product
That is a tank! Nice work!!
After hearing your thoughts, glad I held out for a legalis to come in stock at the beginning of the year. I almost settled on a Kalon, but something about it, just seemed off to me.
Legalis is definitely a nicer reel!
Could you compare the Majorcraft finetail fax area (63SUL) you have against the diawa kage (611ULS) both fast action? I’m stuck in deciding which one to purchase. Thanks! Love your videos as them have been informative and encouraging me to go after panfish or just using an ultralight in general.
They are definitely very different sticks. I personally prefer the Kage as it is a solid-tipped rod with a much faster action and I find that it is more sensitive. The Finetail is a bit more whippy down the blank so it is probably more versatile if you plan to fish little treble hooked baits and stuff.
Thanks for the comparison! Have you’ve found a favorite M/F action Lite or ultra lite rod? Thanks!
The Temple Fork is my favorite for versatility. I think it is a Fast but definitely not as fast as these solid-tipped rods so I personally think its a good option. If you want something less Fast than that, you may look at the Fenwick Eagle.
I'm actually thinking about pairing up the dobyns colt panfish special with a kastking zephyr SFS. It's more of a light rod but putting a plastic on a 1/32oz jig head gets closer to the 1/16oz range probably anyway. I love messing around and exploring with my ugly stik dock runner.
I would like to try that Colt at some point. Let me know how you like it if you end up getting one!
@@FishAnything will do! Been doing some research on more affordable reels besides kastking to pair with it. Apparently Piscifun reels are made in the same Chinese factory that daiwa uses for their Chinese made reels🤔 the Piscifun carbon x spinning reel also apparently uses the same frame materials that daiwa uses in their Tatula lt spinning reels. Looking closely at the rotors side by side they seem to have similar designs as well. Also the Piscifun carbon x’s handle screws directly into the reel like my daiwa fuego and exceler. I may have to get the carbon x in the 1000 size to try out with the colt panfish rod. It’s not a combo that’s going to get a ton of use so I can’t bring myself to go all out. Lord knows my gf thinks I have way more than enough expensive gear than I can even use 🤣
Great video as always, but I got a question about two other rods. Daiwa presso or tfo trout and panfish? Will be throwing 1/64-1/16, which is better for the money?
I had the 5'6 4pc travel Presso and LOVED IT. But honestly, I think these rods are pretty even so I don't think you can go wrong either way. I would probably lean Daiwa if you're choosing 6' or less. If you're going over 6' I would choose TFO.
@@FishAnything thanks so much for the info. After watching yours and troutmagnetman’s video I’m trying to talk myself off the ledge for the major craft finetail 6’3” SUL. I think I’m still going to end up the tfo path cause it’s hard to pay close to double the price without putting one in hand to get a feel.
I came here to watch a reel review but you just showed me a new way to cast a lure by pulling it down like a slingshot.😮
Glad you liked it! That technique helps me a ton!!
Wanting to place an order for your baits. But having a hard time figuring out what size jig heads to use. Wanting to get the horse fly and the donkey tail jr. what would be the best size and or color to get
Depends on the situation, but I would say you can't go wrong with a 1/32oz Mule Jig with both of those plastics. I like a little variety for colors but I would suggest some natural, some bright. Maybe a pack of black jigs & one of the brighter options, then a couple plastics in the more natural hues / couple in the brighter hues. Feel free to reach out with more specific questions/information and I will help as best I can!
Placing a big order for my self for Christmas. Can’t wait to get them and try them out. I’m sure I won’t be disappointed!! Also tried your set up got me a tfo 6 foot UL and the Sedona 1000 love the set up. Love your videos can’t stop watching them keep it up. Ps be on the look for my order might though in a hat for me on my order lol!
Have you tried Suffix 832 in 6 lbs.? I really like it for saltwater in 15 lbs.
I have used it and prefer smoother braid varieties because the casting distance is better for UL gear. J braid and spro are both smoother in my experience.
I currently have the 5'6" Defy and the 6' TFO Ultralight. I keep looking and lusting at the Dobyns. What would I be gaining by adding it to the arsenal?
I don't know that you will add a lot to your arsenal by having another rod. I think the Dobyns would definitely be your favorite stick if you upgraded, but the other two can technically do the same things. Just not quite as high quality of components on those rods.
My goal with these ultralight rod videos is not to make people think they need tons of gear, but rather to steer people into the right gear for them. You could always sell or donate your Defy and upgrade to the Dobyns if you decided you wanted the additional sensitivity / faster rod tip.
@@FishAnything Thanks for the advice. I think you've done a great job of highlighting the fact that we don't NEED tons of gear or expensive equipment. With that being said, you know how tempting new rods and reels are. Thanks again, don't change a thing. Keep doing what you're doing.
: }
both rods and reels seem like they're pretty nice and great quality too. Also both are also the same price. Can't argue with that, that's for sure. like always great fish catching too
Thanks Shawn :) both are very nice rods!
@@FishAnything
Very welcome you are
I've seen some field and stem ultralight rods that fell pretty decent for minimal money...maybe a future ultralight review!?
I have heard lots of good things. Haven't got one yet but might just have to!
What 2lb line are you using?
I’m a fan of Sunline monofilament. Extremely thin diameter for the lb rating.
The 4lb is 0.006 in. or 0.165 mm
And it’s very “silicone” and soft feeling as it doesn’t retain much memory and is easy to handle. Made in Japan!
I might have to check into that Sunline Mono! I haven't seen it in 2lb. I use Trilene Sensation for my Co-Polymer (mono) and I was testing a Varivas Blue Moon for the fluorocarbon.
@@FishAnything The trilene sensation is 0.006 in. for 2lb, so you get a bit more strength for the same diameter with the Sunline. I think you’ll really like it!
I have the 7ft 1 piece version and for me it feels like a light rod rather than ultra light. Still a solid rod
Yeah they are a bit stout, but they are soooo nice!
What’s your favorite rod for throwing the lightest jigs?
These two do a similar job as long as you use a low diameter line. I like a fast action rod with a soft tip in the 6'-6'4 range for casting micro baits.
Still waiting on that Lew’s HS 5.6ft UL video lol. You can find them only at Walmart and they are only $34. Best budget UL. Hands down. The only negative I can find about it is the color. It’s yellow but it’s a great rod otherwise.
I will try to get it for next year :)
Nice lake! Try the Okuma Ceymar!
I will have to check it out :)
I'm having great luck with the PowerPRO V2 8lb
Nice! Can’t go wrong with power pro
Have you ever tried St. Croix Premier? Wondering if it’s worth the price.
I have fished the St Croix Panfish Series and the Legend Elite but never the Premier. I feel like St Croix makes great rods. They are a bit tip heavy for my liking but definitely a great product.
@@FishAnything do you recommend anything under 200?
Based on your dock shooting those rods def look like they are on the light side and not ultra-light. The bend looks very similar to the Ozark Trail OTX 5.6ft light. That’s a good rod but I wish the front cork covered more surface in front of the reel. Great rod for $34 though.
You love that rod! Haha I’ll get one soon.
And they are both true ultralight but are extremely fast due to the solid tip. Such a great setup for jig fishing.
@@FishAnything yeah, I do like it a lot. I prob talk about it too much lol. I just like quality products that don’t break the bank. I have bought a lot of rod and reels to find what I think is the best bang for the buck. My favorite budget reel is the Quantum Throttle II. I actually have the 6.6ft combo and the 1000 reel. The reel is only $50-60 and it has an aluminum frame, 11BBs, direct connect (not cross hex) aluminum crank handle. My only critique is that it’s a little heavy due to that aluminum frame. I also love the Diawa Regal, amazing bang for your buck.
Do you get twice the pleasure of using the Dobyns Sierra over the TFO panfish rod (since the double in price)? Also, knowing that the Dobyns Sierra exist, if you are only able to acquire the TFO, would you be completely content with it?
If I only owned one ultralight to do everything, the TFO would likely be at the top of my list. The Dobyns is hands-down my favorite for ultralight jig fishing though. Just depends on what you plan to do. If you mostly fish jigs, I think the Dobyns is unbeatable. If you fish a little bit of everything, go with the TFO.
@@FishAnything Thank you for the reply!
Is there discount code for mulefishing?
I price everything as best I can from the start as opposed to running discounts. I prefer to avoid confusing shoppers and making them second-guess the pricing throughout the year. Thanks for your interest!
@@FishAnything that is cool. I will place an order asap. Thank you sir
Just got the package. I am very pleased with the quality.
I've really been enjoying the 13 Fishing Source K as a budget friendly reel. It's around $30 and handles just as well as the Shimano Sienna or the Daiwa Revros.
I really want to try out the Dobyns. It looks interesting.
This Kalon made me feel worse about 13. Not sure I will pick up another of their reels anytime soon. Clunky, drag is iffy, feels a bit cheap. The Daiwa/Shimano reels of equal price points feel much better.
💯🔥💙👍
Thanks :)
Team Dink in the house
Always! 🕺🏼
Might mention the warranty on the rods too . Dobyns is a lifetime warranty not sure what Daiwa rods warranty is
The Daiwa has a 5-year warranty. Good call, Pampee!
U can send that rod back to Dobyns and they will send you another rod I don’t how much but they will tell you how much it will be
Yep, it cost about $80 for me to replace since it was my fault. Otherwise it would just be the cost of shipping if it is the rod's fault. And they let you send in just the logo portion which cuts down on cost.
Yep ur right good luck
A 170 bucks rod that claims life time warranty (but need 80 to fix and return) is just a gimmick.
I see where you’re coming from but it only requires $80 if it’s the angler’s fault. If it’s a manufacturer defect it doesn’t cost you a thing.