If you switch your spinning reel handle over to the left handed side, you can “feather” your line and flip the bail with your index finger. Just like with your thumb on a baitcaster. Plus, you fight the fish with your dominate arm. Also, most bfs reels have clickers on their drags.
I completely agree with you Matt and compliment you how you stated your opinion on bfs. I always use spinning tackle until 5 yrs ago. Now bait casting is my preferred method even the techniques where most say use spinning. My comfort level changed using bait casting over spinning because my bass boat isn’t as big and I’m generally sitting in a high pedestal seat on upper deck and resting the back of my hand on my thighs during the retrieve thus reducing the stress on my shoulder that I get when I use spinning being I have to hold spinning reel up off my thighs. Standing spinning reel has room being my arms hang down no stress. Thus the one reason I use bfs is comfort to fish baits 1/16-1/8oz.
Boom you nailed it with the drag issue. You couldn't pay me to fish with light line on a baitcaster. 10-12 lb is the lightest line I'm confident with. Anything lighter is strictly spinning.
I really appreciate this video. It's the only one I've found that isn't just trying to sell me a 600 dollar reel. I kind of get the impression the BFS system is mainly for folks with cash burning a hole in their pocket. Nothing wrong with that, but it's not where I'm at.
I put together a BFS rig for casting light beetle spins in and around cypress trees chasing crappie. I have better accuracy with the BFS over spinning. But I use spinning gear in more open water fishing. It’s a very niche thing for me. Don’t think I would use the the BFS to even target bass. Overall, it’s a good option to have in the tool box.
We have delicious tasting flounder here in NZ, that until recently, had rarely been caught on a rod and reel. They have very small mouths that require specialist gear to catch. I saw a RUclips video of a guy in NZ that has done just that. (AlbertFishOn). I was so impressed with how he does it, I've imported a rod similar to his and can't wait for it to get here to try it out. It could be the start of a whole new experience for what is an untapped, and limitless resource for this kind of fishing.
Hi, apologies for joining late. I prefer a baitcaster particularly for techniques like jerkbaits and texas rigs where you tend to have lots of slack line. With a spinning reel it usually results in loops on the spool that turn into a mess. When fishing a lure that keeps the line taught not so much of an issue. One last perk to a baitcaster is not having to get a bail lined up to cast. All in all i enjoy spinning and casting gear. I simply adapt to the conditions and presentations.
I never heard of this before, but with all that is going on on youtube, it doesn't surprise me. There are lots of bank anglers and pond fisherman, and with the price they are seeing to actually get out on the water, it's another level to add to their game. It should not be much of a surprise to them, that it is not part of your tournament strategy, however I used my baitcast outfit when dropshoting smallmouth on Lake Erie using 10lb leader. I felt I had much more control when landing fish in 3-7 ft waves, without compromising any over a spinning rod.
This is a new term to me, I had to Google it and then a search on TW. Looks to me like more of a marketing concept than a new fishing technique. Lightweight 50 size reels with shallow spools have been around for a long time. I still use a Daiwa TD-X HDSF that’s 20 years old…also a couple of 50 size Chronarchs and Curados. There has always been light and medium light baitcasting rods, so I don’t see what’s new. 🤷🏼♂️
The reason I am interested in bfs is I fish from a kayak for crappie a Lot and I want to try it for casting to them. And I don't really cast spinning gear as accurately.
I'd love to know if BFS will cast further than comparable spinning gear? If so, just a little father, or considerably farther? Same lure, line, and rod action. For fishing open super clear water, casting distance is a big plus. If BFS casts further, it might be worth trying. I'm very comfortable casting and skipping with spinning gear now and am fighting the urge to try BFS until I'm convinced it out casts spinning with light line and small baits.
I live right on the Ohio River I mean from my porch I can throw a rock into the river and I know there are tons of small mouth bass but the current is really strong and it’s probably over 300 yards wide where I’m at but there are big creeks that feed into the river close to me should I be fishing the creeks? I mean do they go into the creeks or stay in the main river
I’ve been watching a ton of BFS videos recently, and I think the only reason I might get one is to throw small hard baits for crappie and other panfish. Great video Matt!
this is the best BFS reel i know of www.tacklewarehouse.com/Shimano_Curado_BFS_Casting_Reel/descpage-CRBF.html?from=MSFG as for rods i cant really comment as i build my own and dont want to steer you in the wrong direction
What is the little lure you have sitting on a quarter at the introduction of your video? It is a good looking lure. I have recently explored BFS. I fish from a bass boat. All my lakes are highly pressured from tournaments and tons of pleasure boating. Most of my bass are small spotted bass. I have enjoyed using my BFS system to cast 1/8-1/4 oz crank baits. I also have several nice spinning reel outfits. For me, when it comes to accurately casting tiny lures per hour, I average more casts per hour with the BFS rig. But, I don’t know if BFS is the answer for a Pro angler winning a 5 fish bag bass tournament. Maybe BFS could be a tool for co-anglers to get their limit quick.
To be honest, to me BFS is personal preference period, is like today are you going drive a car or ride a motorcycle to work today, nothing more and nothing less, they both get you point A to point B, I personally prefer BFS, because I get a kick out of it, but that that doesn’t mean spinning setup is no fun, they’re both fun, again it comes down to preference
You don't need bait finesse if you use Daiwa SV reels. I use sv tw tatulas, zillions, sv tw coastal with the 150 size spools. The diawa sv will throw up to 1/8 oz great if you use lighter line. I can throw neds on them, drop shots, power shots, etc. Using heavier 20 lb line I use 1/4 oz all the time and it still throws just great. There is no better baitcaster than the daiwa sv. the spool is super light and smooth and the daiwa brakes are in a class of their own. you dont have to ever adjust spool tension. you set it wherwe theres no or very little play and then use the amazing brakes to control everything. you can switch from 1/4 oz to 1/2 oz and not have to adjust spool tension, just turn the brakes up a notch or two. The reels are better than shimano dc, they are better than any lews, 13 fishing, abu, anything with traditional magnetic or centrifugal brakes, daiwa brakes are a class of their own. But id rather use spinning rod for most finesse things, you have much better control. I have one spinning rod set up for heavier techniques, because theres some times when you need spinning gear for non finesse techniques.
I like my Sissy stick lol I catch just as many on my 6'8 Extra fast St Croix then I do any of my other rods. I also prefer my Spinning rod for Jerkbaits. I just caught a 5.7lb Winter largie on 10lb line on my Spinner the other day. Good vid Matt 👍
Matt I think I lost my PB yesterday on my new BFS gear. I was unprepared how I immediately felt outgunned. I forced the issue and twisted my hook. I’ll watch your video later, when I’m less sour. Haha. Thanks bud.
Just use a spinning rod…bfs is more marketing than functional I see the appeal to fighting fish and casting a light lure but a spinning set up does both better
What's it called when you go the exact opposite of BFS? For example, I ONLY fish spinning gear... I just use heavier rods for heavier baits. I feel I'm able to effectively throw almost anything on right spinning rod, up to jigs and frogs. The only major presentations I can't really make are big hard bodied swimbaits and Alabama rigs, which I don't really care to throw anyway.
I bought a BFS reel / rod to learn to throw baitcasters. The shallow spools backlash less and less expensive to re-spool with line. They are also fun to fight white bass with.
as a spokesman for "old dudes" that still bass fish and are "bass geeks". .... you nailed it dude... they are fun to play with... but a new angler would do themselves a much bigger service just taking the time to get comfortable with a fairy wand... keep the bfs stuff for certain situations.. own it all!!!
Bfs is good at keeping less line twist than spinning. I do have both. I feel that I have more control with spinning. I was raised using spinning tackle. I like BFS when using small crankbaits. When just casting and reeling it in alot. Not really hitting targets as you would with a worm or a jig. Jerkbaits I always use spinning. Topwaters , Bfs. Cause no give if a fish hits it with bale open. It's just a feels right I guess on what I use.
I heard something that stood out. A 1/8 oz chatter is not BFS. Thats simply light tackle. That brings me to what I think is the most misunderstood thing of BFS. 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, isnt BFS. Typically a 1/8 chatter bait will have a total weight of somewhere around 1/4 or 3/8. Something that has a total lure weight of 1/32, 1/16, and on the upper end at 1/8 total weight, is BFS. As to the ML rod comment. I fish the upper TX coast. That puts me on inshore fish like reds and specks to big bass on Conroe, Rayburn, and many other lakes. A ML rod is more power than most any fisherman needs to land most fish. Very few of us need to horse a fish into the boat as quickly as possible in a tournament setting. BFS can get expensive. There are less expensive ways into bfs and it is coming down in price the more popular it becomes.
Bank angler here. I bring one spinning rod and a BFS baitcster rod to my sessions. I still cast flukes on the spinning rod and some of the lighter lures. BFS baitcaster is just a funktion for me to improve the overall casting distance that is really valuble when fishing from the bank.
Shimano curado BFS paired with a 7 FT 1 Phoenix Feather light action. Berkeley 4 lb Nano braid with a 6lb fluorocarbon leader. Drop shots, Ned rig, moxie jigs and the Rapala tiny series line of lures. Living here in Western New York and fishing Erie Lake for Smallmouth you wouldn't believe the fun you can have with this combo
Wat straight floro line do u use on u spinning gear??? Or u a braid to floro leader guy 90% of time? I’ve tryed lots find sublime fc sniper best on my spinning but don’t like paying for it and still get line twist even tho not as bad
@@MattStefanFishing Cool, Matt. Could you please let me know what date and what time is available for you to have a short meeting with us? If possible, we would like to invite you for dinner.
It would be nice to be shown what a bfs is while talking about it for those of us who have never heard of this at all in the first place instead of having to go look for it somewhere else. It will keep you viewers and such in the longer run.
Timely video. I've only used baitcast equipment but need to start using a spinning or BFS setup to cast weightless and light lures. I've been trying to decide which way to go. I find spinning reels awkward to use because of line twist and the fact that they are so different to operate and cast. Mono line seems be a less than ideal on spinning equipment, but I am hesitant to start using braid to leader.
You probably get tired of me, but age has some benefits. If it's light I go with spinning. You let the cats out of the bag again. I've got a box of micro baits, had it for maybe 8yrs. If I'm flipping, pitching or chunking heavier crank, is going on the bait caster. My spinning gear run from ultra light to medium heavy. It's a tool as are my baits. 2/3 of my rods are spinning not counting fly rods. Baits, have you ever tried a rocket shad by strike king. It's a small spinner bait. Or a crank called itsy-bitsy, yes it does catch gills & crappy & bass to.
Thanks for the info I'm commenting before the end so if you cover it sorry but what rod is best for a bfs ? Medium heavy moderate, medium moderate, or another just curious
Nice video. I did not know this technique had a name. The past three years I have done this for a Ned Rig. I found the lightest reel available with Spiralite rod (spiral wrap). There was a learning curve and it helped to reduce the amount of line on the reel.
I don't understand the bfs thing? I have nothing against it! I just don't know much about it or understand why it's a thing? I use spinning rods & bait casters. Mostly using spinning gear for light to medium sized baits & bait casters for medium to larger baits. Is the bfs stuff more exspensive? Is just a marketing thing? Idk?
I agree with the drags on spinning reels being better. Great comment. I can understand where it would be fun and possibly advantageous for BFS, but I surely don’t see a need for it. I know of a guy from Minnesota who has wrist injuries and needed to fish casting gear in bfs. That is the only place I see it being “needed”.
Thanks Matt anyone who is not comfortable with a spinning reel has not been fishing very long .That is the only gear we had back then .I think the remarks such as sissy stick or fairy wand really bothers these people so they don't want to get caught with one in their hand I love my spinning gear I use it 90 percent of the time.Right there with you on your spinning gear beliefs. thanks again Matt
It does sound like fun, but isnt that the same bait and line you'd use on a spinning rod? I dont care what im catching 5 lb smallmouth on...i just want to be catching 5 lb smallmouth
@@MattStefanFishing I would rather have a casting rod in my hand than a spinning. I’m the opposite. I feel like I can make more casts and make accurate cast. I can make a silent approach with my lure, and it’s a blast for me. My bfs setup is a Dobyns Sierra Ultra Finesse paired with a Curado BFS. I love this setup because I am a kayak angler. Thanks for the video and debate Matt! U rock dude
Another great video!! I think the spinning gear is more the northern way to fish versus the southern ways to fish. I grew up in IN, IL, & now living in OH. We use spinning rods it seems to be a way of life.
Good open discussion, Matt! I would only suggest that an angler should fish what he or she is most comfortable with. On a side note, I would add that most BFS systems I have seen are rods and reels that I can't monetarily afford. Having said that, I probably couldn't afford the Spinning gear that you fish either. lol! I have fun anyway.
I’m late to the party on this one, but I think you are totally right about this not being super viable for tournaments. I just look at it as a new challenge and fun way to fish local ponds and small local lakes.
Spinners do have that butter smooth drag for sure … creek stalking around the Philadelphia area, I definitely need my spinning gear. I just can’t hit certain spots with my caster. However, I think the BFS whole movement is awesome. All for it
A 1000 size reel, L or ML trout type rod, 4-6 lb flouro leader to 8-10 lb braid is my "go to" for smaller baits, anyday over BFS. Flouro to braid eliminates line twist which is the #1 problem with spinning combos. Very interesting topic....thanks for posting and keep up the great work!
Matt, Could you do a video on how often you change your fishing line? I know, as a pro, its probably before every event. But what about the average guy? How often should you change mono, braid, and leader for both types of reels?
Matt i bought a zephyr bfs 2 yrs ago and the curado bfs with a lews ML last year and its definitely my favorite jerk bait setup i cant put it down and i fish up to 1/2 oz no prob on it but it cast the 40yrds to the spool. I fish all my power stuff when i go out also but fighting a fish with a clicker is heavenly
Bfs is very good spinning reels are very good but to get good with any set up takes time you have to work with it to get good with it there is no shortcut.
It’s kinda funny growing up. I threw a Texas Rigged worm with a 1/16 oz a lot with #8 mono on my casting rods. Then on my UL rod I would use 1/32 oz with a Texas Rigged worm along with small crappie Spinnerbaits that were between 1/32 / - 1/16 oz. Along with small tiny crappie crankbaits and tiny Rapala Minnows
I'm running a Dobyns Sierra BFS rod with the KastKing Zephyr reel right now. I will likely get the Curado BFS at some point. It is amazing with ned rigs, weightless wacky rigs, small inline spinners, small spoons. It is fantastic.
Can't see investing in another system, more reels, more rods that will need to be paired with them. For the pro who makes a living from fishing, well, they need to do what's best for them. For the average fisherman like me. Sorry, still trying to stay abreast of baitcasting and spinning rods and reels for my fishing needs. A man could go broke chasing the tech every year. The manufacturers will be winners in all this, more power to them I suppose. But this is one fish that won't be biting BFS systems in my foreseeable future. I am able to cover my bases with my spinning gear and current lineup of Baitcasters.
@@MattStefanFishing Thanks for bringing this topic to everyone. I Love your channel and appreciate you and your families efforts in our behalf. Trusting you will be blessed this coming year for all your hard work and expertise.
Have not heard of this (BFS) until now. I really appreciate that you bring up these new concepts and introduce many of us to stuff we've never heard of before. Really interesting. Plus, I totally appreciate your fondness for spinning gear. I've used spinning gear my whole life and have only learned bait casting later in life. Excellent topic, excellently presented.
It’s hard to make a strong case for using a bfs in a tournament situation. That said it’s one of the most fun outfits to cast and fight small fish on. Would like to see more light and medium light 6-6’6” casting rods on the market to cast and skip 5-7 gram plugs and poppers around tight cover because I feel more accurate with casting over spinning.
I think people should give spinning gear a full chance before deciding moving to BFS. I've was planning on going to do some inshore fishing last year but never did. But i did pick back up my love for spinning gear using inshore fishing techniques. 10 to 20Ib braid to which ever size leader up to 20ib mono is a game changer to cover more water when bank fishing at a pond, lake canal, rivers and catching fish where you can't present a lure with baitcaster due to distance. Because if you try to sling that slide with a baitcaster most likely end up in backlash. Even got a couple of 7ft medium heavy spinning rods from Lew's to flip and pitch lighter baits with 20ib braid such as weightless senkos or craw style baits where it's a hassle with a baitcaster where you may have to buy super expensive reel that is meant for that. Want to get into BFS but still deciding what to buy for my money's worth
I do totally agree with your idea, The boat anglers really they dont need it. But I am telling you, Anytime I wasn't able to catch bass specially in small ponds, when I change to my 1/16 or 1/8 jighead with 2" swimbait, I immediately catch some bass. thanks for being reasonable and fair and straight to the point.
I bought the Shimano corrado version of the BFS and I bought it for very specific reasons. I'm not comfortable using a spinning rod when it come to tiny moving baits like a spy bait. That's basically what I bought it for. Tiny cranks, spy baits, shad raps ect. Still haven't come in yet so I haven't actually got to use it but I'm excited for it
Great video. I picked up a BFS system only to learn something new as a bank angler. Very comfortable with spinning for finesse, hoping to learn something new.
Matt, you are very right in the approaches you made, you also must consider that many of us do not have the ability that you have with spinning gear and that is where the BFS comes to play an important role. 8 months ago I bought a Curado BFS with an ultra light rod and the experience is incredible, I have caught 8 pound Peacocks with a 6 pound test line and it is a real challenge. The drag on the Curado is amazing. An application that I use a lot is top water with small poppers or mini ploppers that I don't feel as comfortable with a spinning gear. Really like it for light lures specially when the fish are finicky and not attracted to regular size lures. ( Typically Peacocks and Larguies in gin clear water )
yep I understand that and im sure thats a reason why i dont see how its much different than spinning gear. thanks for pointing that out! Stick with what works the best for you
Thanks for sharing your point of view on BFS. I like spinning gear for light presentations, but I feel baitcasting give me a more accurate sensitivity for bottom contact. About the smoothness of the drag I think the spinning reels are a step behind the casting ones. Everyone has it's own preference
Spinning reel drag is a step behind baitcaster drag? I don't think anyone has ever said that till now lol. To each their own and if it works for you then cool, but I'm gonna go ahead and say you are not going to find many people who agree with you on this one.
For me, the key BFS scenario is shallow highly pressured situations. If I’m fishing a drop shot around docks, I’m going BFS because I can land the bait very softly. All my drop shot fishing in 10’ or less is BFS. Also, I’ve always had more control and sensitivity with a bait caster, but I know lots of people (most) choose a spinning rod for those applications.
I definitely prefer a baitcaster. I'm usually the only guy out around here fishing smallies, tossing neko and wacky rigs on a baitcaster. I still don't like them enough to sink the money in to a BFS system though. If I didn't already have a dedicated ned and ultra light finesse jig spinning setup I might, but it just seems like money I could better spend elsewhere now.
I think your right I fish a 1/8 oz jig and a1/8 oz bladed jig on normal bait casting with no problem with 12 lbs. light or spinning reel
thanks for sharing!
Being a co angler fishing behind a boater I think bfs would be a great way to catch them👍
Definitely!
The spool is unreal too , that woofle
nice!
If you switch your spinning reel handle over to the left handed side, you can “feather” your line and flip the bail with your index finger. Just like with your thumb on a baitcaster. Plus, you fight the fish with your dominate arm.
Also, most bfs reels have clickers on their drags.
Thanks for sharing
Right on great tip it's up to the fisherman
yes it is!
I know this is an older video but BFS is just FUN! I love my spinning rods but the bfs just makes me smile ear to ear. Its strange but I love it!
Right on!
Agreed.
thanks
I completely agree with you Matt and compliment you how you stated your opinion on bfs. I always use spinning tackle until 5 yrs ago. Now bait casting is my preferred method even the techniques where most say use spinning. My comfort level changed using bait casting over spinning because my bass boat isn’t as big and I’m generally sitting in a high pedestal seat on upper deck and resting the back of my hand on my thighs during the retrieve thus reducing the stress on my shoulder that I get when I use spinning being I have to hold spinning reel up off my thighs. Standing spinning reel has room being my arms hang down no stress. Thus the one reason I use bfs is comfort to fish baits 1/16-1/8oz.
thanks for sharing!
Great video I also think line lays better n has less memory on baitcaster
thanks for sharing!
Boom you nailed it with the drag issue. You couldn't pay me to fish with light line on a baitcaster. 10-12 lb is the lightest line I'm confident with. Anything lighter is strictly spinning.
thanks for sharing!
I prefer the small bfs,troubles with line twist on spinning rods,also the faster gear ratio helps staying tight on bfs crankbait fish
stick with what works for you!
BFS is new to me. I've got a few spinning rods for the lighter stuff.
stick with what works for you
Agreed
thanks for watching!
@@MattStefanFishing I watch everyday. I enjoy your content and value your opinions on fishing. Keep up the great work.
@@kylebrandstattfishing7270 thanks!
It cast light tackle amazing bro
sounds great!
I really appreciate this video. It's the only one I've found that isn't just trying to sell me a 600 dollar reel. I kind of get the impression the BFS system is mainly for folks with cash burning a hole in their pocket. Nothing wrong with that, but it's not where I'm at.
Glad to help
Just bought the new kastking Zephyr, I'll get it the 23rd we will see how it works. Thanks for the info brotha
good luck!
I put together a BFS rig for casting light beetle spins in and around cypress trees chasing crappie. I have better accuracy with the BFS over spinning. But I use spinning gear in more open water fishing. It’s a very niche thing for me. Don’t think I would use the the BFS to even target bass. Overall, it’s a good option to have in the tool box.
sounds great!
We have delicious tasting flounder here in NZ, that until recently, had rarely been caught on a rod and reel. They have very small mouths that require specialist gear to catch. I saw a RUclips video of a guy in NZ that has done just that. (AlbertFishOn). I was so impressed with how he does it, I've imported a rod similar to his and can't wait for it to get here to try it out. It could be the start of a whole new experience for what is an untapped, and limitless resource for this kind of fishing.
very cool!
Hi, apologies for joining late. I prefer a baitcaster particularly for techniques like jerkbaits and texas rigs where you tend to have lots of slack line. With a spinning reel it usually results in loops on the spool that turn into a mess. When fishing a lure that keeps the line taught not so much of an issue. One last perk to a baitcaster is not having to get a bail lined up to cast. All in all i enjoy spinning and casting gear. I simply adapt to the conditions and presentations.
Thanks for watching
I never heard of this before, but with all that is going on on youtube, it doesn't surprise me. There are lots of bank anglers and pond fisherman, and with the price they are seeing to actually get out on the water, it's another level to add to their game. It should not be much of a surprise to them, that it is not part of your tournament strategy, however I used my baitcast outfit when dropshoting smallmouth on Lake Erie using 10lb leader. I felt I had much more control when landing fish in 3-7 ft waves, without compromising any over a spinning rod.
Thanks for sharing Jim! Ive done that as well!
I have a couple BFS limited edition shimano bro from China on eBay great real too bro
very cool! Ill check it out
I have open face wheels and push a baitcaster but I am still getting used to my baitcaster too but I still use my open face Wheels
sounds good
This is a new term to me, I had to Google it and then a search on TW. Looks to me like more of a marketing concept than a new fishing technique. Lightweight 50 size reels with shallow spools have been around for a long time. I still use a Daiwa TD-X HDSF that’s 20 years old…also a couple of 50 size Chronarchs and Curados. There has always been light and medium light baitcasting rods, so I don’t see what’s new. 🤷🏼♂️
thanks for sharing!
The reason I am interested in bfs is I fish from a kayak for crappie a Lot and I want to try it for casting to them. And I don't really cast spinning gear as accurately.
bfs can be a lot of fun
I agree on what you said. I can skip a spinning rod better than a baitcaster so I would favor on the side of spinning rods. Stay Safe & God Bless!!!!
Right on
Do you find that people are catching and the system can handle keeper size fish?
yes i do
Bfs for redfish rocks
that sounds like fun!
BFS is super fun 🤩
that it is
Thoughtful thoughts on the subject. I like my spinning gear and feel very much the same as you. Besides my rod locker is already full.
Well said!
I enjoy using bfs for crappie fishing, especially during the spawn, we rip little crappie jigs with swimbaits along the bank and smoke em.
sounds like fun
Thank you, Richard Cummings!!! Now I can justify getting a set up! I love to Crappie fish, too!!
Excellent Matt I agree with you!
thanks for watching
My opinion has been that BFS is an answer in search of a question.
i like how you put that
I'd love to know if BFS will cast further than comparable spinning gear? If so, just a little father, or considerably farther? Same lure, line, and rod action. For fishing open super clear water, casting distance is a big plus. If BFS casts further, it might be worth trying. I'm very comfortable casting and skipping with spinning gear now and am fighting the urge to try BFS until I'm convinced it out casts spinning with light line and small baits.
i dont think it casts further personally
@@MattStefanFishing Thanks for the reply! Much appreciated!
I live right on the Ohio River I mean from my porch I can throw a rock into the river and I know there are tons of small mouth bass but the current is really strong and it’s probably over 300 yards wide where I’m at but there are big creeks that feed into the river close to me should I be fishing the creeks? I mean do they go into the creeks or stay in the main river
they will utilize both throughout the year
It will catch lrg mouth also. If you flip an itsy-bitsy around cover and twitch it w/small rod sweeps works great to.
sounds good to me
I have a BFS rod and reel and it definitely has its time and place in my yak..
thanks for sharing
Thanks for your input, I use spinning a lot.
You bet!
Hey Matt...can you give me the name of that micro crank on the quarter? Thanks!
Lucky Craft Kingyo Anekin
This might seem stupid but would a bfs baitcaster be a good choice to learn a baitcaster? Thx
i dont think its the correct setup to learn a baitcaster with IMO
I have a place close by the house that's usually stacked with 1 to 2 lbs. spotted bass. Love my bfs for it but wouldn't recommend it for a tournament.
sounds good
I’ve been watching a ton of BFS videos recently, and I think the only reason I might get one is to throw small hard baits for crappie and other panfish. Great video Matt!
Right on
Is there a particular BFS rod and reel you recommend?
this is the best BFS reel i know of www.tacklewarehouse.com/Shimano_Curado_BFS_Casting_Reel/descpage-CRBF.html?from=MSFG
as for rods i cant really comment as i build my own and dont want to steer you in the wrong direction
What is the little lure you have sitting on a quarter at the introduction of your video? It is a good looking lure.
I have recently explored BFS. I fish from a bass boat. All my lakes are highly pressured from tournaments and tons of pleasure boating. Most of my bass are small spotted bass. I have enjoyed using my BFS system to cast 1/8-1/4 oz crank baits. I also have several nice spinning reel outfits. For me, when it comes to accurately casting tiny lures per hour, I average more casts per hour with the BFS rig.
But, I don’t know if BFS is the answer for a Pro angler winning a 5 fish bag bass tournament. Maybe BFS could be a tool for co-anglers to get their limit quick.
its a little megabass bait
@@MattStefanFishing thanks!
i agree i think if you learned on spinning gear there is no need to replace it for bfs its like finding a problem where no problem exist
agreed
To be honest, to me BFS is personal preference period, is like today are you going drive a car or ride a motorcycle to work today, nothing more and nothing less, they both get you point A to point B, I personally prefer BFS, because I get a kick out of it, but that that doesn’t mean spinning setup is no fun, they’re both fun, again it comes down to preference
agreed! Just another tool in the tool box!
You don't need bait finesse if you use Daiwa SV reels. I use sv tw tatulas, zillions, sv tw coastal with the 150 size spools. The diawa sv will throw up to 1/8 oz great if you use lighter line. I can throw neds on them, drop shots, power shots, etc. Using heavier 20 lb line I use 1/4 oz all the time and it still throws just great. There is no better baitcaster than the daiwa sv. the spool is super light and smooth and the daiwa brakes are in a class of their own. you dont have to ever adjust spool tension. you set it wherwe theres no or very little play and then use the amazing brakes to control everything. you can switch from 1/4 oz to 1/2 oz and not have to adjust spool tension, just turn the brakes up a notch or two. The reels are better than shimano dc, they are better than any lews, 13 fishing, abu, anything with traditional magnetic or centrifugal brakes, daiwa brakes are a class of their own.
But id rather use spinning rod for most finesse things, you have much better control. I have one spinning rod set up for heavier techniques, because theres some times when you need spinning gear for non finesse techniques.
thanks for sharing your experiences with us!
I like my Sissy stick lol I catch just as many on my 6'8 Extra fast St Croix then I do any of my other rods. I also prefer my Spinning rod for Jerkbaits. I just caught a 5.7lb Winter largie on 10lb line on my Spinner the other day. Good vid Matt 👍
thanks for sharing
Matt I think I lost my PB yesterday on my new BFS gear. I was unprepared how I immediately felt outgunned. I forced the issue and twisted my hook. I’ll watch your video later, when I’m less sour. Haha. Thanks bud.
dang! thats a bummer
Just use a spinning rod…bfs is more marketing than functional I see the appeal to fighting fish and casting a light lure but a spinning set up does both better
What's it called when you go the exact opposite of BFS? For example, I ONLY fish spinning gear... I just use heavier rods for heavier baits. I feel I'm able to effectively throw almost anything on right spinning rod, up to jigs and frogs. The only major presentations I can't really make are big hard bodied swimbaits and Alabama rigs, which I don't really care to throw anyway.
im not sure there is a name
I bought a BFS reel / rod to learn to throw baitcasters. The shallow spools backlash less and less expensive to re-spool with line. They are also fun to fight white bass with.
sounds like a good plan
That 10” RED JAKE IS LOOKING AT ME 40 plus shipping
haha your starting to tempt me
as a spokesman for "old dudes" that still bass fish and are "bass geeks". .... you nailed it dude... they are fun to play with... but a new angler would do themselves a much bigger service just taking the time to get comfortable with a fairy wand... keep the bfs stuff for certain situations.. own it all!!!
sounds good to me!
Bfs is good at keeping less line twist than spinning. I do have both. I feel that I have more control with spinning. I was raised using spinning tackle. I like BFS when using small crankbaits. When just casting and reeling it in alot. Not really hitting targets as you would with a worm or a jig. Jerkbaits I always use spinning. Topwaters , Bfs. Cause no give if a fish hits it with bale open. It's just a feels right I guess on what I use.
I can see that. There is better feel using moving baits when holding a baitcaster versus a spinning rod. Good point. thanks for sharing!
I heard something that stood out. A 1/8 oz chatter is not BFS. Thats simply light tackle. That brings me to what I think is the most misunderstood thing of BFS. 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, isnt BFS. Typically a 1/8 chatter bait will have a total weight of somewhere around 1/4 or 3/8. Something that has a total lure weight of 1/32, 1/16, and on the upper end at 1/8 total weight, is BFS.
As to the ML rod comment. I fish the upper TX coast. That puts me on inshore fish like reds and specks to big bass on Conroe, Rayburn, and many other lakes. A ML rod is more power than most any fisherman needs to land most fish. Very few of us need to horse a fish into the boat as quickly as possible in a tournament setting.
BFS can get expensive. There are less expensive ways into bfs and it is coming down in price the more popular it becomes.
thanks for sharing
It’s all about the feel with the a spinning set up in my opinion. Thanks Matt!
Right on!
Bank angler here. I bring one spinning rod and a BFS baitcster rod to my sessions. I still cast flukes on the spinning rod and some of the lighter lures. BFS baitcaster is just a funktion for me to improve the overall casting distance that is really valuble when fishing from the bank.
Thanks for sharing!
Shimano curado BFS paired with a 7 FT 1 Phoenix Feather light action. Berkeley 4 lb Nano braid with a 6lb fluorocarbon leader. Drop shots, Ned rig, moxie jigs and the Rapala tiny series line of lures. Living here in Western New York and fishing Erie Lake for Smallmouth you wouldn't believe the fun you can have with this combo
very cool thanks for sharing
I was just about to pull the trigger on a BFS but after watching your video I think I’ll stick to my spinning reel. Thanks for saving me some money 💰
you bet!
Wat straight floro line do u use on u spinning gear??? Or u a braid to floro leader guy 90% of time? I’ve tryed lots find sublime fc sniper best on my spinning but don’t like paying for it and still get line twist even tho not as bad
i use berkley 100% fluorocarbon on some straight spinning reels. others i use berkley X9 braid to fluoro leader
Great video!
I enjoy BFS fishing a lot.
I have an Shimano Aldebaran paired with an Old 18 ultra light suppressor.
Very cool!
Cost is what will keep it out of my hands.
it is expensive
ruclips.net/video/vouL8wK3Do8/видео.html
Great and balanced analysis,like any other sports, is not the gear, is the fisherman skill level that counts!
agreed!
Hi Matt, Are you available at ICAST in Florida? We would like to have a deep discussion with you abut BFS?
ill be there
@@MattStefanFishing Cool, Matt. Could you please let me know what date and what time is available for you to have a short meeting with us? If possible, we would like to invite you for dinner.
It would be nice to be shown what a bfs is while talking about it for those of us who have never heard of this at all in the first place instead of having to go look for it somewhere else. It will keep you viewers and such in the longer run.
there is no specific BFS...its a term for finesse baitcasting...
Mr. Stefan your tips and tricks. Well let's just say your all around knowledge of fishing is greatly appreciated ☺️👍. Keep it coming.
I appreciate that!
Timely video. I've only used baitcast equipment but need to start using a spinning or BFS setup to cast weightless and light lures. I've been trying to decide which way to go. I find spinning reels awkward to use because of line twist and the fact that they are so different to operate and cast. Mono line seems be a less than ideal on spinning equipment, but I am hesitant to start using braid to leader.
stick with what works best for you!
You probably get tired of me, but age has some benefits. If it's light I go with spinning. You let the cats out of the bag again. I've got a box of micro baits, had it for maybe 8yrs. If I'm flipping, pitching or chunking heavier crank, is going on the bait caster. My spinning gear run from ultra light to medium heavy. It's a tool as are my baits. 2/3 of my rods are spinning not counting fly rods. Baits, have you ever tried a rocket shad by strike king. It's a small spinner bait. Or a crank called itsy-bitsy, yes it does catch gills & crappy & bass to.
the rocket shad has caught me some huge smallmouth. I like burning it over shallow sand flats for smallies
Thanks for the info I'm commenting before the end so if you cover it sorry but what rod is best for a bfs ? Medium heavy moderate, medium moderate, or another just curious
its more like medium lights
@@MattStefanFishing thank you sir
Nice video. I did not know this technique had a name. The past three years I have done this for a Ned Rig. I found the lightest reel available with Spiralite rod (spiral wrap). There was a learning curve and it helped to reduce the amount of line on the reel.
Great tip!
I don't understand the bfs thing? I have nothing against it! I just don't know much about it or understand why it's a thing? I use spinning rods & bait casters. Mostly using spinning gear for light to medium sized baits & bait casters for medium to larger baits. Is the bfs stuff more exspensive? Is just a marketing thing? Idk?
all good questions
Less line twist than spinning rods
sounds good
I agree with the drags on spinning reels being better. Great comment. I can understand where it would be fun and possibly advantageous for BFS, but I surely don’t see a need for it. I know of a guy from Minnesota who has wrist injuries and needed to fish casting gear in bfs. That is the only place I see it being “needed”.
thanks for sharing. thats a good point
Thanks Matt anyone who is not comfortable with a spinning reel has not been fishing very long .That is the only gear we had back then .I think the remarks such as sissy stick or fairy wand really bothers these people so they don't want to get caught with one in their hand I love my spinning gear I use it 90 percent of the time.Right there with you on your spinning gear beliefs. thanks again Matt
thanks for sharing!
Some of my biggest smallmouth came on my BFS rod and reel. There’s some magical about fighting a 5lber using a 1/16 bait on 6lb line.
It does sound like fun, but isnt that the same bait and line you'd use on a spinning rod? I dont care what im catching 5 lb smallmouth on...i just want to be catching 5 lb smallmouth
@@MattStefanFishing I would rather have a casting rod in my hand than a spinning. I’m the opposite. I feel like I can make more casts and make accurate cast. I can make a silent approach with my lure, and it’s a blast for me. My bfs setup is a Dobyns Sierra Ultra Finesse paired with a Curado BFS. I love this setup because I am a kayak angler. Thanks for the video and debate Matt! U rock dude
Another great video!! I think the spinning gear is more the northern way to fish versus the southern ways to fish. I grew up in IN, IL, & now living in OH. We use spinning rods it seems to be a way of life.
Very true!
Good open discussion, Matt! I would only suggest that an angler should fish what he or she is most comfortable with. On a side note, I would add that most BFS systems I have seen are rods and reels that I can't monetarily afford. Having said that, I probably couldn't afford the Spinning gear that you fish either. lol! I have fun anyway.
Its definitely about what an angler feels most comfortable with
I’m late to the party on this one, but I think you are totally right about this not being super viable for tournaments. I just look at it as a new challenge and fun way to fish local ponds and small local lakes.
I agree 100%
Spinners do have that butter smooth drag for sure … creek stalking around the Philadelphia area, I definitely need my spinning gear. I just can’t hit certain spots with my caster. However, I think the BFS whole movement is awesome. All for it
thanks for watching!
A 1000 size reel, L or ML trout type rod, 4-6 lb flouro leader to 8-10 lb braid is my "go to" for smaller baits, anyday over BFS. Flouro to braid eliminates line twist which is the #1 problem with spinning combos. Very interesting topic....thanks for posting and keep up the great work!
Thanks for sharing!
Matt, Could you do a video on how often you change your fishing line? I know, as a pro, its probably before every event. But what about the average guy? How often should you change mono, braid, and leader for both types of reels?
sounds good. I dont do before every event. just when i need to respool a reel
Matt i bought a zephyr bfs 2 yrs ago and the curado bfs with a lews ML last year and its definitely my favorite jerk bait setup i cant put it down and i fish up to 1/2 oz no prob on it but it cast the 40yrds to the spool. I fish all my power stuff when i go out also but fighting a fish with a clicker is heavenly
sounds good to me. stick with what works best for you and that you have confidence in. thats all that matters.
Bfs is very good spinning reels are very good but to get good with any set up takes time you have to work with it to get good with it there is no shortcut.
Very true
There's nothing that bfs can do that an ultralight spinning rod can't, and that ultralight spinning rod is going to throw lighter lures farther
thanks for sharing!
@@ueng928 accuracy and efficiency for what?
It’s kinda funny growing up. I threw a Texas Rigged worm with a 1/16 oz a lot with #8 mono on my casting rods. Then on my UL rod I would use 1/32 oz with a Texas Rigged worm along with small crappie Spinnerbaits that were between 1/32 / - 1/16 oz. Along with small tiny crappie crankbaits and tiny Rapala Minnows
thanks for sharing
I'm running a Dobyns Sierra BFS rod with the KastKing Zephyr reel right now. I will likely get the Curado BFS at some point. It is amazing with ned rigs, weightless wacky rigs, small inline spinners, small spoons. It is fantastic.
thanks for sharing with us!
Same setup.....love it!
Can't see investing in another system, more reels, more rods that will need to be paired with them. For the pro who makes a living from fishing, well, they need to do what's best for them. For the average fisherman like me. Sorry, still trying to stay abreast of baitcasting and spinning rods and reels for my fishing needs. A man could go broke chasing the tech every year. The manufacturers will be winners in all this, more power to them I suppose. But this is one fish that won't be biting BFS systems in my foreseeable future. I am able to cover my bases with my spinning gear and current lineup of Baitcasters.
yeah fishing is getting to be very expensive
@@MattStefanFishing Thanks for bringing this topic to everyone. I Love your channel and appreciate you and your families efforts in our behalf. Trusting you will be blessed this coming year for all your hard work and expertise.
Underhand casting a spin reel,an hold my line in my left an feather the line much more accurate 1/16 grub or minnow on a round head ,
thanks for sharing
Have not heard of this (BFS) until now. I really appreciate that you bring up these new concepts and introduce many of us to stuff we've never heard of before. Really interesting. Plus, I totally appreciate your fondness for spinning gear. I've used spinning gear my whole life and have only learned bait casting later in life. Excellent topic, excellently presented.
Glad you enjoyed it!
It’s hard to make a strong case for using a bfs in a tournament situation. That said it’s one of the most fun outfits to cast and fight small fish on. Would like to see more light and medium light 6-6’6” casting rods on the market to cast and skip 5-7 gram plugs and poppers around tight cover because I feel more accurate with casting over spinning.
thanks for sharing!
I think people should give spinning gear a full chance before deciding moving to BFS.
I've was planning on going to do some inshore fishing last year but never did. But i did pick back up my love for spinning gear using inshore fishing techniques. 10 to 20Ib braid to which ever size leader up to 20ib mono is a game changer to cover more water when bank fishing at a pond, lake canal, rivers and catching fish where you can't present a lure with baitcaster due to distance. Because if you try to sling that slide with a baitcaster most likely end up in backlash.
Even got a couple of 7ft medium heavy spinning rods from Lew's to flip and pitch lighter baits with 20ib braid such as weightless senkos or craw style baits where it's a hassle with a baitcaster where you may have to buy super expensive reel that is meant for that.
Want to get into BFS but still deciding what to buy for my money's worth
good points thanks for sharing
Reel speed on the retrieve is one of the biggest differences that can see between spinning reel vs. bait caster.
good point
I do totally agree with your idea, The boat anglers really they dont need it. But I am telling you, Anytime I wasn't able to catch bass specially in small ponds, when I change to my 1/16 or 1/8 jighead with 2" swimbait, I immediately catch some bass. thanks for being reasonable and fair and straight to the point.
i agree 100% with moving to smaller line and baits. My thought is that the same could be accomplished with spinning gear. Thanks for watching!
I agree spin rods are easier to be accurate.
thanks for watching!
I bought the Shimano corrado version of the BFS and I bought it for very specific reasons. I'm not comfortable using a spinning rod when it come to tiny moving baits like a spy bait. That's basically what I bought it for. Tiny cranks, spy baits, shad raps ect. Still haven't come in yet so I haven't actually got to use it but I'm excited for it
let us know your thoughts after using it! Thanks for your continued support!
1 BFS reel for jerk baits
haha
Great video. I picked up a BFS system only to learn something new as a bank angler. Very comfortable with spinning for finesse, hoping to learn something new.
Good stuff!
Matt, you are very right in the approaches you made, you also must consider that many of us do not have the ability that you have with spinning gear and that is where the BFS comes to play an important role. 8 months ago I bought a Curado BFS with an ultra light rod and the experience is incredible, I have caught 8 pound Peacocks with a 6 pound test line and it is a real challenge. The drag on the Curado is amazing. An application that I use a lot is top water with small poppers or mini ploppers that I don't feel as comfortable with a spinning gear. Really like it for light lures specially when the fish are finicky and not attracted to regular size lures. ( Typically Peacocks and Larguies in gin clear water )
yep I understand that and im sure thats a reason why i dont see how its much different than spinning gear. thanks for pointing that out! Stick with what works the best for you
Thanks for sharing your point of view on BFS.
I like spinning gear for light presentations, but I feel baitcasting give me a more accurate sensitivity for bottom contact. About the smoothness of the drag I think the spinning reels are a step behind the casting ones. Everyone has it's own preference
yes they do and that's why Ill reiterate that people should use what is best for them and gives them the most confidence.
Spinning reel drag is a step behind baitcaster drag? I don't think anyone has ever said that till now lol. To each their own and if it works for you then cool, but I'm gonna go ahead and say you are not going to find many people who agree with you on this one.
For me, the key BFS scenario is shallow highly pressured situations. If I’m fishing a drop shot around docks, I’m going BFS because I can land the bait very softly. All my drop shot fishing in 10’ or less is BFS. Also, I’ve always had more control and sensitivity with a bait caster, but I know lots of people (most) choose a spinning rod for those applications.
sounds like its the best option for you and thats all that matters. you made all very good points!
I definitely prefer a baitcaster. I'm usually the only guy out around here fishing smallies, tossing neko and wacky rigs on a baitcaster. I still don't like them enough to sink the money in to a BFS system though. If I didn't already have a dedicated ned and ultra light finesse jig spinning setup I might, but it just seems like money I could better spend elsewhere now.
Fair enough!