Ansolutely spot on as always. I believe that bying an expensive rod before an expensive reel. You can always upgrade the reel later but a rod's sensitivity only improves the more expensive the rod is. Randy, your videos are excellent! In the top 5 best channels for sure!!
Spot on with the break down on the rod. Most people stress the line, yes it's important. But the first connection to the fish is the rod. The old pistol grip rods gave no leverage, it was all placed on the wrist. The extended butt aids in fighting the fish but if if it's too long it gets in the way. My best measure is to hold the rod like your going to cast and curl the butt around to the inside of the arm. It's too long if hits the bend of the elbow. Rod length is dependent on what you want to do with it. I'm old enough to shrink, I now stand 6'7" and flip with a 6'6" rod. If I'm cranking it's a 7'2" or 7'6" rod. Fast or moderate tip, again it depends on what your doing. First look at what your style is before you make the big buy. Right Randy?!?
Randy I absolutely love your videos.!! Thanks seriously..! thank you for sharing your fishing wisdom with us I get so much from your content I hope some day I get to fish with you cheers
When it comes to rods, it's all about personnel preference. All your info is spot on if your a Pro and it is critical. When your at my level the weekender dude, Bass Pro has you covered. You can't beat their warranty either.
Great information Randy. I’ve heard great things about the Levante. IMO, The fit and finish of those rods look better than the P5’s. In my opinion, your money is best spent on rods that are more of a non-reactionary type technique, where sensitivity is paramount. This is an extreme example BUT, If I had to choose, I would rather use an Ugly Stik for my chatterbait rod and an 822s NRX+ for my dropshot rod.
Great topic with great information. Since there is not good consistency between rod manufacturers on descriptions of their rod action maybe you could do a video showing the difference. You could show and explain actual rods with the action and strength needed for the basic lure differences such as single hook vs multiple hooks, top water vs diving, etc.
Hi Randy thanks for the video ! I’m fixed income angler. Please cover the variable of price. I’ve been given expensive rod and reels. I thought the setup sucked ! I have some inexpensive outfits that are better ! I had to educate myself and take the time to figure out what I can afford ! We could use your advice on this topic. Thanks Randy !
??? You get what you pay for 99% of the time. There. You think higher end rods suck more than likely because you have no idea what a high end good rod is supposed to feel like
Not sure just how limited your budget is, but the Bass Pro Shops "Bionic Blade" series is a good rod for $79.99. Other rod companies have cheaper entry level rods too. I used Bionic Blades for years when I started. Moved up to better, more expensive rods since then.
Just bought a perfect pitch 7'2 levante & the knob that tightens the reel down cracked before it set in the saddle. I have never had this happen even with cheaper rods. The peace that broke is made of a cheap plastic. The rod is so beautiful I just can't believe they don't use something else to lock the reel down !!!!
Ive got a couple orochis. Since buying them ive started building my own and they are pretty much rod rack queens now. If you take a certain technique very seriously find someone that builds customs. Having EXACTLY what i prefer has changed the game for me. Almost every detail can be modified.
I always had less expensive rods but recently picked up a Ronin spinning rod. Man, I can shoot those 1/2 ounce lures a mile with accuracy. Can't believe what I was missing all those years.
I think the way to go about this is based on budget. Pick a price point you’re willing to spend on a rod/reel. So some research ahead of time. There’s usually great options at every price point for both rods and reels. I would recommend spending a minimum of $100 on a baitcaster. Lots of GREAT value at that price point. And as stated in the video .. If you are able .. FEEL THE ROD/REEL in person. A lot of it is about feel
I have a bunch of Ugly Stiks for different situations. One is 4'8" and one is 8', and I have several different 7' models. I'm sure Megabass rods are super nice but too expensive for me. Now you can get an Ugly Stik for whatever application you need. And they're sensitive, affordable and super tough. But I'm thinking about starting to build rods.
one could talk about fishing rods for hours probably the biggest thing i have noticed is the newer carbon and graphite rods are so much lighter more sensitive and powerful. if you are using rods that are over 10 years old you are missing out they cost a bunch but it's a area that has had drastic improvement in the last few years. you will feel more bites and land more fish over the old glass models.
Good video. I do believe the type of rod has just as much to do with the angler as it does the technique. Example: I'm twitchy and suck at casting cuz of injuries, so i prefer a "mod fast". But that doesn't mean i look for rods that say that. Cuz rods like the bps pro qualifier say fast on them but they are a little mushy which i like for certain things.
Cork is going to be more comfortable for most folks as far as fishing all day. If you fish an hour or two at a time, it won't matter. The foam grips are less comfortable after some hours, but they're a lot more durable, so that's the tradeoff. I personally gravitate toward cork, because I have an appreciation for natural materials and I'm mindful enough that the durability isn't an issue for me. There is a third option... The Winn grips (like golf club grips)... They're pricier and some folks like the look best, I have 1 rod with them and although I have no complaints, I'd be just as satisfied with cork.
The advantage of a longer grip is that you can do a two-handed-cast. Like carp-fishing is done (Korda has lots of footage) one hand under/around the reel, the other holds the end-cap of the rod. Makes you a human trebuchet as a matter of fact 😮😮😂. I have a Westin 8ft6 BaitCaster, i call it the longbow 😅😅 can cast 180 gram with it 😊😊 Now im looking for a DC reel for it 😎👍 but do they come available on the market 🙄🙄
Some rods in the P5 Destroyer Line have been an absolute game changer for me. That said, I have a 1st gen Levante Diablo Spec R and you'd be hard pressed to not find that blacked out beauty on the deck at all times. It just fits my all purpose baitcasting needs so perfectly paired with a Gancraft/Daiwa Mago 001. Even compared to the Orochii dsr and newer Levante dsr which the action just isn't quite like the original release. Unsure why the 1st gen blanks got recalled so hard because mine has taken a literal beating.. It's still flawless, and I've even pulled numerous 35-42 inch Muskie with it on my lake. Guess there were too many lemons and I lucked out with a beauty.
I had always bought cheap combos from bass pro like ugly sticks or whatever was on sale. Past 2 years I started buying better rods & reels. I have couple diawa set ups & few Shimano now also. I have found the rod & then reel I wanted them waited for tackle warehouse to has a big 20% off sale then bought what I wanted while on sale. Had to be very patient but well worth it because I got higher quality rods for really good prices! So far I've been extremely happy with the Shimano zodias & Expride B series for casting & spinning!!! Their insanity sensetive. Having the monocock handle's really doe transfer ton of feel down to your hands! I'd recommend anyone save your $ buy beat you can afford! Better to have just a couple high quality then bunch of cheap set ups. I have absolutely caught more fish because I can feel softer bite's. I otherwise was oblivious to before
I would start out with a smaller spinning reel , cause it’s better than a push button , that’s what I started my kids with cause the push button is simple but it’s harder to reel in artificial baits if that’s what ur doing
One thing to keep in mind is that you do not need super expensive stuff to get started. Yes there's a bunch of Chinesium out there but I was watching a video of bassmasters from the 1970's.....and those guys woulda KILLED to have what we have in a $100 combo today lol
Over 30 years ago I got a lifetime supply of Team Diawa rods and reels from photo shoots, they were the best you could get back in the day. Biggest changes in 2023 from back then is rods tend to be a bit longer these days and handles are skeleton like. Reels are also a faster retrieve on average, smaller profile and lighter. I've fished that stuff hard all these years and it's still top notch. I zing spinnerbaits often and some of those reels have needed a going over and a crazy tarpon stripped the gears on a 2000 size spinning reel last year but that's it for failures. Buy good stuff and you'll put the manufactures out of business cause you won't have to ever buy new stuff.
I tried Alot of Megabass freshwater rods. I wonder why the P5 and XX Orochi do not have a hook keeper. All great rods. Just wish P5 had hook keeper. Levante line of rods had more actions like estP5 line. I do agree Megabass makes the best rods.
Shimano Zodias rods are Awesome. Sorry Randy. Best feeling rods I have ever used. Very sensitive. I feel everything! I own 10 of these rods. 7 bait casters and 3 spinning. I tried 1 of my buddies mega bass rods and for me the Zodias rods can’t be beat. My opinion.
90% of my fishing rods are medium heavy or heavy fast action. This is mainly due to the fact I've never discovered a scenario where those rods wouldn't do the trick. Don't ever listen to people trying to sell you on very very specific rods for specific techniques. A medium heavy fast action is gonna do the job perfectly adequately for 90% of anglers. (if you're fishing for bass)
I was just about to buy that rod when they jacked the price up 50 bucks overnight about a year ago. All of my rods are quality so I will spend money but that just didn't feel right.
Amazing what another $50 or $100 bucks buys in sensitivity and weight savings. With I-Cast and the new models coming out there will be some deals coming. Spend 50 more on a rod on clearance 50 less; man you got a nice upgrade. Golf analagy is spot on. Don't want to putt with a driver or TR a worm with a glass crankin rod.
Shakespeare Ugly Stiks for all! You can bend them backwards like a pretzel…no worries!! The Ugly boasts eye-catching cosmetics for a more modern look versus the prior generation. Fishing has gotten too pretty. Unscratched sparkle barges with nuclear-powered engines. Rods that act like skittish thoroughbreds instead of unshod workhorses. Fish pictures taken for ‘likes' instead of refrigerator doors. It's time to fish the way it's meant to be done, with tough, durable tackle built to provide ten whopper fish pics for every one of some dandy holding a fancy rod and a fingerling. It's time to fish ugly. 😅👍🏼
Other than a heavy action rod, that's exactly what I did. Spinning and casting, graphite and hybrid crankbait rods. I had a heavy action rod, found that I rarely used it so I sold it.
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
Another great job Randy you make things easy to understand
(For beginners)
Big thick hook= stiff rod
Small thin hook=flexible rod
Ansolutely spot on as always. I believe that bying an expensive rod before an expensive reel. You can always upgrade the reel later but a rod's sensitivity only improves the more expensive the rod is. Randy, your videos are excellent! In the top 5 best channels for sure!!
Spot on with the break down on the rod. Most people stress the line, yes it's important. But the first connection to the fish is the rod. The old pistol grip rods gave no leverage, it was all placed on the wrist. The extended butt aids in fighting the fish but if if it's too long it gets in the way. My best measure is to hold the rod like your going to cast and curl the butt around to the inside of the arm. It's too long if hits the bend of the elbow. Rod length is dependent on what you want to do with it. I'm old enough to shrink, I now stand 6'7" and flip with a 6'6" rod. If I'm cranking it's a 7'2" or 7'6" rod. Fast or moderate tip, again it depends on what your doing. First look at what your style is before you make the big buy. Right Randy?!?
Randy I absolutely love your videos.!! Thanks seriously..! thank you for sharing your fishing wisdom with us I get so much from your content I hope some day I get to fish with you cheers
When it comes to rods, it's all about personnel preference. All your info is spot on if your a Pro and it is critical. When your at my level the weekender dude, Bass Pro has you covered. You can't beat their warranty either.
I use my ultra light alot on my kayak with wacky rig. Great dock skipper
Randy, this was one good video. I am still learning about proper equipment.
Someone said to me "buy the best rod/reel that you can afford" and that made so much sense.
Great video Randy! I agree with you, folks should purchase the best rods they can afford. You truly do get what you pay for.
Great information Randy. I’ve heard great things about the Levante. IMO, The fit and finish of those rods look better than the P5’s.
In my opinion, your money is best spent on rods that are more of a non-reactionary type technique, where sensitivity is paramount.
This is an extreme example BUT,
If I had to choose, I would rather use an Ugly Stik for my chatterbait rod and an 822s NRX+ for my dropshot rod.
Great topic with great information. Since there is not good consistency between rod manufacturers on descriptions of their rod action maybe you could do a video showing the difference. You could show and explain actual rods with the action and strength needed for the basic lure differences such as single hook vs multiple hooks, top water vs diving, etc.
Hi Randy thanks for the video ! I’m fixed income angler. Please cover the variable of price. I’ve been given expensive rod and reels. I thought the setup sucked ! I have some inexpensive outfits that are better ! I had to educate myself and take the time to figure out what I can afford ! We could use your advice on this topic. Thanks Randy !
??? You get what you pay for 99% of the time. There. You think higher end rods suck more than likely because you have no idea what a high end good rod is supposed to feel like
Not sure just how limited your budget is, but the Bass Pro Shops "Bionic Blade" series is a good rod for $79.99. Other rod companies have cheaper entry level rods too. I used Bionic Blades for years when I started. Moved up to better, more expensive rods since then.
@@stupiditypissesmeoff330 this is same kind of boomer logic as "I've caught more fish on my ugly stik than you have on all your expensive setups"
Just bought a perfect pitch 7'2 levante & the knob that tightens the reel down cracked before it set in the saddle. I have never had this happen even with cheaper rods. The peace that broke is made of a cheap plastic. The rod is so beautiful I just can't believe they don't use something else to lock the reel down !!!!
Ive got a couple orochis. Since buying them ive started building my own and they are pretty much rod rack queens now. If you take a certain technique very seriously find someone that builds customs. Having EXACTLY what i prefer has changed the game for me. Almost every detail can be modified.
I always had less expensive rods but recently picked up a Ronin spinning rod. Man, I can shoot those 1/2 ounce lures a mile with accuracy. Can't believe what I was missing all those years.
Thanks Randy!
I think the way to go about this is based on budget. Pick a price point you’re willing to spend on a rod/reel. So some research ahead of time. There’s usually great options at every price point for both rods and reels. I would recommend spending a minimum of $100 on a baitcaster. Lots of GREAT value at that price point. And as stated in the video .. If you are able .. FEEL THE ROD/REEL in person. A lot of it is about feel
I have a bunch of Ugly Stiks for different situations. One is 4'8" and one is 8', and I have several different 7' models. I'm sure Megabass rods are super nice but too expensive for me. Now you can get an Ugly Stik for whatever application you need. And they're sensitive, affordable and super tough. But I'm thinking about starting to build rods.
Ugly sticks are not sensitive rods lol
@@stupiditypissesmeoff330 try the Lite Pro series.
Ugly sticks are tough but they are clubs when it comes to sensitivity
Hi Randy thanks for the videos what are your thoughts on technique specific rods ? cant wait to book a virtual lesson.
Great video. I would like to see you select a few budget rods that work well.
Is it true the circumference of the rod eyes is important as far as the distance you can cast?
one could talk about fishing rods for hours probably the biggest thing i have noticed is the newer carbon and graphite rods are so much lighter more sensitive and powerful. if you are using rods that are over 10 years old you are missing out they cost a bunch but it's a area that has had drastic improvement in the last few years. you will feel more bites and land more fish over the old glass models.
Bought a perfect pitch recently and realized the quality, I love the levantes will by buying the whipsnake as well
Good video. I do believe the type of rod has just as much to do with the angler as it does the technique. Example: I'm twitchy and suck at casting cuz of injuries, so i prefer a "mod fast". But that doesn't mean i look for rods that say that. Cuz rods like the bps pro qualifier say fast on them but they are a little mushy which i like for certain things.
Randy if you had to pick would you rather have one orochi whipsnake or two levante?
Cork vs. non-cork handles?
Preferences? Pros/Cons?
Cork is going to be more comfortable for most folks as far as fishing all day. If you fish an hour or two at a time, it won't matter. The foam grips are less comfortable after some hours, but they're a lot more durable, so that's the tradeoff. I personally gravitate toward cork, because I have an appreciation for natural materials and I'm mindful enough that the durability isn't an issue for me. There is a third option... The Winn grips (like golf club grips)... They're pricier and some folks like the look best, I have 1 rod with them and although I have no complaints, I'd be just as satisfied with cork.
The advantage of a longer grip is that you can do a two-handed-cast. Like carp-fishing is done (Korda has lots of footage) one hand under/around the reel, the other holds the end-cap of the rod. Makes you a human trebuchet as a matter of fact 😮😮😂. I have a Westin 8ft6 BaitCaster, i call it the longbow 😅😅 can cast 180 gram with it 😊😊 Now im looking for a DC reel for it 😎👍 but do they come available on the market 🙄🙄
Some rods in the P5 Destroyer Line have been an absolute game changer for me.
That said, I have a 1st gen Levante Diablo Spec R and you'd be hard pressed to not find that blacked out beauty on the deck at all times.
It just fits my all purpose baitcasting needs so perfectly paired with a Gancraft/Daiwa Mago 001.
Even compared to the Orochii dsr and newer Levante dsr which the action just isn't quite like the original release.
Unsure why the 1st gen blanks got recalled so hard because mine has taken a literal beating.. It's still flawless, and I've even pulled numerous 35-42 inch Muskie with it on my lake. Guess there were too many lemons and I lucked out with a beauty.
I had always bought cheap combos from bass pro like ugly sticks or whatever was on sale. Past 2 years I started buying better rods & reels. I have couple diawa set ups & few Shimano now also. I have found the rod & then reel I wanted them waited for tackle warehouse to has a big 20% off sale then bought what I wanted while on sale. Had to be very patient but well worth it because I got higher quality rods for really good prices! So far I've been extremely happy with the Shimano zodias & Expride B series for casting & spinning!!! Their insanity sensetive. Having the monocock handle's really doe transfer ton of feel down to your hands! I'd recommend anyone save your $ buy beat you can afford! Better to have just a couple high quality then bunch of cheap set ups. I have absolutely caught more fish because I can feel softer bite's. I otherwise was oblivious to before
Randy, how does one choose a rod and reel to get a kid, say 6 or 7, off to the right start in bass fishing? Thanks!
I would start out with a smaller spinning reel , cause it’s better than a push button , that’s what I started my kids with cause the push button is simple but it’s harder to reel in artificial baits if that’s what ur doing
One thing to keep in mind is that you do not need super expensive stuff to get started. Yes there's a bunch of Chinesium out there but I was watching a video of bassmasters from the 1970's.....and those guys woulda KILLED to have what we have in a $100 combo today lol
Over 30 years ago I got a lifetime supply of Team Diawa rods and reels from photo shoots, they were the best you could get back in the day. Biggest changes in 2023 from back then is rods tend to be a bit longer these days and handles are skeleton like. Reels are also a faster retrieve on average, smaller profile and lighter. I've fished that stuff hard all these years and it's still top notch. I zing spinnerbaits often and some of those reels have needed a going over and a crazy tarpon stripped the gears on a 2000 size spinning reel last year but that's it for failures. Buy good stuff and you'll put the manufactures out of business cause you won't have to ever buy new stuff.
I tried
Alot of Megabass freshwater rods. I wonder why the P5 and XX Orochi do not have a hook keeper. All great rods. Just wish P5 had hook keeper.
Levante line of rods had more actions like estP5 line. I do agree Megabass makes the best rods.
Shimano Zodias rods are Awesome. Sorry Randy. Best feeling rods I have ever used. Very sensitive. I feel everything! I own 10 of these rods. 7 bait casters and 3 spinning. I tried 1 of my buddies mega bass rods and for me the Zodias rods can’t be beat. My opinion.
I actually just found three Bob Izumi signature series rods in my attic, I have so many rods I forgot I had them.😂
90% of my fishing rods are medium heavy or heavy fast action. This is mainly due to the fact I've never discovered a scenario where those rods wouldn't do the trick.
Don't ever listen to people trying to sell you on very very specific rods for specific techniques. A medium heavy fast action is gonna do the job perfectly adequately for 90% of anglers. (if you're fishing for bass)
I was just about to buy that rod when they jacked the price up 50 bucks overnight about a year ago. All of my rods are quality so I will spend money but that just didn't feel right.
Amazing what another $50 or $100 bucks buys in sensitivity and weight savings. With I-Cast and the new models coming out there will be some deals coming. Spend 50 more on a rod on clearance 50 less; man you got a nice upgrade. Golf analagy is spot on. Don't want to putt with a driver or TR a worm with a glass crankin rod.
Sorry, but all I got out of this one is a pitch for Megabass rods, except for the good info on 7 guides.
Look at those Guns Bud ! You go Randy. Semper Fi from some guy who agrees with your way of thinking.
Real for sure if you have fished long enough you can find nice rods for cheaper but not a real
But what if I like wasting my money on badass Megabass rods?
All this talk about rod and butts made my wife who is in the kitchen thought I was watching a sex advice video
😂😅🤣🎣
😮
Randy, if you had to pick one Levante casting rod for an all-arounder up to 1/2 ounce lures what would it be?
Perfect pitch
Nail on the head with the shorter butt length 👍👍
Shakespeare Ugly Stiks for all! You can bend them backwards like a pretzel…no worries!!
The Ugly boasts eye-catching cosmetics for a more modern look versus the prior generation. Fishing has gotten too pretty. Unscratched sparkle barges with nuclear-powered engines. Rods that act like skittish thoroughbreds instead of unshod workhorses. Fish pictures taken for ‘likes' instead of refrigerator doors. It's time to fish the way it's meant to be done, with tough, durable tackle built to provide ten whopper fish pics for every one of some dandy holding a fancy rod and a fingerling. It's time to fish ugly. 😅👍🏼
Just don't buy Japanese rods. Do buy Japanese cars tho.
First ;)
It's easy, one each of.. med/Lt, med., Med/hvy., & Hvy. Done!
Other than a heavy action rod, that's exactly what I did. Spinning and casting, graphite and hybrid crankbait rods. I had a heavy action rod, found that I rarely used it so I sold it.
You gotit price don't matter if you no what to look for