@@GabeReelLA I fully agree. On the other hand, I noticed on my poles that do, setting the hook becomes more complicated. I prefer a short handle on my 735c and 765FR for set purposes.
Replace your tip guide on that Emperor rod, I had the same thing happen on my St.Croix. I run a Q tip around the guide inserts, if there is even a small chip or crack, the cotton on the Q tip will get snagged.
I use the st Croix bass x rods. Have 11 of them. 10 bait casting and 1 spinning. Absolutely love them. They don’t break the bank either. There warranty program is awesome and if you ever have an issue they are very easy to deal with and get ahold of. Shimano reels. Not much needs to be said about that. There the best reels on the market imo. Cool video man.
St croix warranty is the best in the buisness🔥 I get my legend tournament bass replaced for 20 bucks from my local tackle store ! 6ft8in med light fast action spinning rod is amazing
bass x or mojo series are the best bang for your buck with st croix. i havent had any bass x but ive had a few mojos and absolutely love them for around $100 per rod
I've got 3 bass X rods and that's what's at my feet on the boat. My favorite is the 7 4' heavy. I use it for flippin and froggin and even throw big swim baits on it and it does work man
I just picked up a bass x, I have to wait for some ice to melt but I’m excited to use it, price point was great and st. Croix is a great company, I’m glad to hear other people like the bass x, I wasn’t sure about it because it was a little cheaper, I was looking for the mojo but they didn’t have one in the specs I wanted so I went with the bass x
Man, hearing you talk about one brand of rod to achieve the same feel regardless of which set up grab made so much sense. I've been toying with the idea for a while now, but couldn't explain why. Now I can justify my obsession.
This is such bullshit, iv'e got $1000 rods and $100 dollar rods. Same for reels and there are certainly amazing rods and reels in the 100-400 mark, in fact id go as far as to say people spending more than $500 are morons and aren't doing any research. If your spending big bucks on anything that isn't a 25kg+ fish you are wasting your money.
As someone that hasn’t been using bait casters for very long at all, I will say my experience thus far has been absolutely awesome with Shimano. I have a 2 favorite rods, and 1 shimano. But all my reels are Shimano. I’ve tried a couple different ones but Shimano has been my best. I appreciate your perspective on preference. One size does not fit all in this category! Always putting out great content, thank you! Keep it up 😎
I still throw Berkley Lightning rods with old school Shimano Curado CU-201s. Haven't updated to the new school due to confidence, affordability and dependability. Fairly inexpensive to buy second hand too. I enjoy the consistency. I'd be interested if you're selling btw.
Rods and reels are very subjective my friend. I like lews and abu Garcia. I also use power pro braid and never have an issue. Let’s not forget that fishing is as simple as you let it be... use what you like and have fun!
Happy ya liked my home state, I’m pretty fond of it! As for rods n such, I have a mixed brand bag and love them all. They all have their pros and cons! Thanks for sharing!
I'm waiting for the arrival of my second Cutado DC. Love my first Curado and your other DC video prompted me to get another... First one for bass, the new one I'll try using for heavy artillery going after pike and maybe even musky. Takes me forever to save for these but beyond worth it.
i love my nrx. but i hate using it cause it its so bleepin expensive. im a little paranoid about breaking it (doubt i ever will but meh. can you blame me? its a beautiful piece of craftsmanship). id honestly probably part with it to get a few more kistlers. my helium 3 is right up there with the nrx in sensitivity. and gary loomis has his hands in the blank design too. gloomis and shimano is THE combo. tho. ive got a SLX XT paired with my helium. and a metanium on the NRX
@@cheabuns8168 One of the reasons I went to GLoomis rods is because of their guarantee. Funny I broke rods before but have never broken a Loomis rod. I have a 6ft casting rod GL3 that's my first one and it can wail a swimbait.
The Dobyns DC805CBRM is an 8' Med/Hvy, Mod/Fast Action, graphite Crankin' rod. 10-20 lbs line, 3/8-1 1/2 oz. baits. Normal to oversize baits. (10xd) It's primarily my S-Waver 168 rod, secondary all treble hook baits and small swimbaits, chatters, spins, etc. If you wanna cast the farthest you gotta have an 8' rod. I'm still running a Curado 200i HG with Boca Spool Bearings, RC handle bearings, Carbontex drag washers and F-1 super lube or Boca high speed lube if I can't find the F-1. Power Pro 30 or 40# braid. 10, 15 or 20#, 8' or 16' mono leader. It's an absolute weapon from shore.
I have a few of the Shimano SLX series rods and reels, both are amazing. And the DC is life changing! They are so much fun to fish with, even if you aren't catching anything.
Great advice at the end to not break the bank for a sweet rod. I fish with $10 zebco combos from Walmart. Sure I would love some higher end stuff but you have to be honest about justifying the expense. $100 dollar rods and even more expensive reels just don't make sense if you are just hitting the lake on weekends when you can get away.
I'm like you. I've fished for some time now and my more all purpose rods are like 7'4 to 7'6 mh. Absolutely love the casting distance and lenght that just adds to better casting.
Completely agree with you on the Shimano Reel situation. I've fished abu garcia, lews, and others and since buying the Carado dc I am convinced that Shimano has got the right mixture of efficiency and castability.
Shimano def dominates my lineup. I have the Zodias Rods in ML spinning, medium casting and a medium glass version casting for mostly cranking. Also an Expride medium spinning which is very nice. Then two Stradics reels for spinning and a Curado DC plus a SLX DC casting. I have to admit I like the SLX DC just as much as the Curado DC. You should try it Matt! You’ll love it.
I did the same thing. Went to almost all tatula reels but they've only been lasting 2-3 seasons of hard fishing and only doing end of year maintenance. Started switching over to Shimano the past couple year. Have a Chronarch and a bunch of different Curados. I good so far, and the shimanos are the simplest reels for breaking down and clenaing IMO. Switched to mostly Dobyns for rods. I love Daiwa rods but am trying to simplify as well
A guy that owns a local pro tackle shop told me to look at Powell when I inquired about a Dobyns. He told me to go with Powell if I wanted to save money because the blanks are made in the same factory & most of them carry a similar/same model number. He said I could just cross reference the model number from Dobyns to the powells to find the one I'm looking for.
I swear by Vexan rods and 13 fishing reels. To me, that setup is a perfect pair in my hands. I used Abu Garcia Revo reels and Halo rods for a long time and that was a great setup as well. The Halo rods just seemed to get heavier and bulkier so I had to make a change.
My favorite rod I own is a Shakespeare 6 foot medium action given to me by my dad it’s a spinning combo with a quick fire Shimano spinning reel 2000 size very good for wacky rigs and small jerk baits
That's a pretty sick line up of hand me downs. You have super nice friends!! I hear what you are saying with the consistency across one brand and what not. My Lews rods definitely feel different from my Abu Rods.
I notice you don’t have a frog rod in your arsenal right now. I would recommend the Shimano Curado 7’2 heavy, it’s my rod of choice for heavy jigs 1/2-3/4oz and all frogs and it’s a great rod, I have a Curado k on it and it’s so nice! The cork wears kinda quick but the blank is insane and has stayed fast or extra fast for the 6 months I’ve had it. I’ve dragged a 24” bass to the kayak with no trouble. Try it out it’s sick
I am diehard Daiwa for reels. Granted, Shimano tends to stay just slightly out of my usual price range. I currently throw a Daiwa rg2500 on my spinning setup and a Daiwa Fuego in 7:3 on my baitcaster. (My everyday rods) not a single issue after 2 years other than the Daiwa Fuego baitcaster is a little bit noisy when line tension knob is just a turn or so loose to throw something a bit lighter. Magnetic drag works like a charm.
I have a plethora but my preference has always been Shimano. I'm not saying they are any better it's what I am used to over the last 30 years. The Curado was a very affordable baitcaster and it is rock solid. I still have my Curados from the 1990's. Crazy!
Gloomis and shimano is the way to go. I’ve been through a lot of rod company’s and just about every reel company’s and I’ve always come back to gloomis and shimano. Like you said though it’s all personal preference
Almost all my reels are old low profile left handed green Curado 201's. Most are over 20 years old. Would like to update but these are indestructable. I have 14 of them. I did just finally get a Curado DC but I haven't got it spooled yet. Will be used for skipping docks on Gaston. My only right handed reels are the very old Lew's BB1NG's that I use for cranking. 4.3 to 1 gear ratio can't be beat for cranking.
My first baitcaster was a lews. Then I fished Abu. And I wish I never wasted money on the lews reel. Then tried okuma, and diawa. Then I finally got the curado dc. And thennnnn bought another one a month later haha. Never buying any other reel but a Shimano from now on. #lifechangingexperience
Try your tatula for flipping and pitching. Secondly the bite is going off in north east texas. One lake has produced a few 12s, and a couple of others have pumped some 10s out... pines is about to wake up as well. Caddo is going to produce a challenger for the state record or the lake record 16 +
I currently own about 20 rods and have a variety of different makes and models. Just picked up a Fenwick for 60% off so that was hard to pass up. Really like Kast King, Lews , Abu Garcia, for reels. But have to say the most important criteria for fishing is not what you fish but where you fish. Man give me a great location and it doesn't matter if you use the Pocket Fisherman (remember that from the 60s ?) you will get fish. It's hard (at least where I am) to find that consistently good place.
In my almost 2 years of regular fishing I’ve noticed one thing to be true: You can catch fish and have fun on the cheap stuff, but god help you if you buy something expensive. You’ll only wanna buy the expensive stuff after that.
@@whiskeygordon2452 I wasn't trying to disprove your experience. Guess my words came out wrong...I know what you're saying. I associate the word cheap with low-quality. Sometimes cheaply made products are expensive, and sometimes budget based products are actually of a higher quality. Some brands to me are just superior in quality compared to others (from my experience).
I have a mixed bag but last year I start using 13 fishing and I have to say I love their rods and reels, I am now up to 3 reels, concept z, inception sz, and inception, and I have two of their fate black rods and they have been absolute work horses for me, no complaints at all!! After watching you and hearing that dc I am looking at getting a curado dc, I need that sound when I cast😂🤟👊🔥
Your presence on camera has really matured over the years. Great video. Totally agree with your opinion on the Daiwa T-wing. I bought one as well and don't really see that it adds anything, won't buy another. I have almost all Lewe's reels, but I've never bought a Shimano. Listening to you, I might should try one, but I feel so invested with Lewe's, owning maybe 10-15 of them. Again, great video.
Hey Matt, great video man. Love your content! 16oz in a pound brotha! Sorry I had to... lol. All good. You keep up the great work my man!! Happy New Year and tight lines!!!
SBFISHINGTV all good my friend, just givin ya a little elbowing. Good fun. I’m a local so maybe we’ll run into each other someday. Thanks for all the great content!
You know what's crazy is that the shimano slx has the same handle as the curado. I've got the whole slx line up and a couple curados and I can't imagine using anything else but shimano. I've fished everything under the sun but shimano sets the bar man
Shimano Crucial rods with Abu or Lews. However my buddy fishing all Berkeley Lightning Rods and whacks then. It’s what your comfortable with. Great video
I have to admit, next to G-Loomis, I think the 6'th Sense rods work the best for me. I also have a pile of 2004 era Shimano Curado reels. Having the same reel and rods for consistency I think is beneficial, especially if you are casting into tight cover a lot and accuracy is important.
Shimano is very superior in my book for reels, that's all I've been using. Just got the SLX DC, heavily impressed for the price! Also the Shimano Curado K is incredibly smooth as well, might honestly be one of my favorites at the moment for flipping and pitching or just an all around! Moving to my impression on rods, I've been using Favorite for a couple years now, but I also have had issues with guides being chipped or being completely broken after I purchased them, not to take any credibility to the rod its self, they are a very nice rod overall. And I'll continue to use them until I can afford to replace them. Not sure what switch I will make next, might try out Powell as well. Also would like to point out the honesty in your videos brotha, you're a solid dude! 👊🏻
So I started out getting a bunch of different brands . I now love the SLX try it out I own about 9 of them . I have some DC the Currado dc . For $99 The SLX is reel much easier to switch everything over too . Then on the rods I throw all the time chatterbaits ect I put the currados on .I also bought 50+ rods and reels last year alone . I tried the favorite rods ,duckett ,I did fall in love with the dobyns fury line at $120 a rod not hard to get a line up of those either . So now I have all these rods and reels and I throw the 6 or 7 furys I have because it feels the same .God bless you for wanting $600 set ups for each combo lol. Always like seeing what everyone is throwing as well
I started out with my first reel being a bass pro qualifier and bass pro rod because it was $100 for combo during spring classic sale. It then became tradition to get a new setup each year because BP usually has one deal during spring sale that is good value. Now all my gear is bass pro. I know it may not be the coolest or latest but it’s consistent and a pretty decent product.
I have everything from Berkley Lightning Rods to Lamiglass Certified Pro's. They all have a time and place as tools. I have worked towards brand continuity in my bass rods. I own baitcasters from 6 manufacturers. Again all have a time and place.
Enjoyed video. I prefer having same rod and reel set up for the reason of having continuity when switching between different lures. I usually have three of same combo bait casters with a different lure rigged up and 3 of same with spinning rig.Same with ultra light tackle, have 3 of same set up with different lures. I feel more comfortable when swapping back and forth between lures. Just feel better to me knowing the reel. Now if I am trolling, I will use older different rods and reels, mainly for the budget factor. But if I could afford I would have same brand model reels. Works for me may not for others.
I have tried abu, lews, quantum, bps, baitcasters over the years and they all worked ok. But I have all Shimano reels now and will stick with that ! I have all SLX reels and a Cardiff that slings the bigger stuff well too. Going for the Shimano dc reels next. Probably get the tranx too ! Thanks for the vid !
I love my SLX combo and I hope I can expand my Shimano lineup in the future. I have found, personally, that magnetic breaking systems are harder to dial in and get use to compared with centrifugal brakes and Shimano's reels are buttery smooth and the spool releases are crisp when disengaged with the thumb and re-engaged with the reel handle.
I have used the dobyns Sierra 6'10 medium for my jerkbaits. It's a fast action but it's more like a moderate fast. U have to check them out!!They are amazing. Super light and sensitive.
Nice aresenal Matt! I agree it would be nice to have all your rods feel the same in your hand. It would also be nice to have all Shimano reels on them!
Depends on the situation, for ultralight situations, I like an ugly stik, most medium duty situations I'll grab an ugly stik, but If I'm going hardcore like maybe trolling lake superior for salmon and lake trout or whatever, I'll usually grab an ugly stick. I try to use mitchell reels especially a mitchell 300, but a shakespeare or whatever will do just fine in a pinch.
Definitely a bunch of sweet setups!! I actually just started working with Denali rods and have loved there products! For the reels I’m still trying to find my favorite, I’m sure once I throw that DC I’ll be sold.
Shimano reels are the way to go. I’ve used their curados for a while now and I just got one with the DC breaks that I’ve really enjoyed casting with. I also like their 500 size spinning reels for a really small and light UL set up for trout fishing in creeks. Shimano makes great stuff that is comfortable and pretty durable.
Nice vid homie! I think the Powell shimano switch is the way to go. Just picked up the new shimano slx dc and it's pretty rad so far, definitely my favorite reel so i own. If i had to pick a favorite rod itd either be my denali attax 7'6" x heavy fast frogging rod or my 7'1" st croix bass x which i use for light Texas rigs and finesse jigs. Keep up the dope content homie! P.S. (3:12) there's 16 oz in a pound not 24
I personally am a Shimano guy. I mostly have Shimano reels. I am a little more curious when it comes to the rods though. With Shimano I know exactly what I am gonna get and how it will hold up. With other brands I can't say that. Not saying they are bad, but just not to the quality of Shimano. I think you are definitely making the right choice with them. Now for the rods, if Shimano still made the crucial series of rods with the EVA grips, that is the rod series I would go with. Or the Cumara series.
Ive been all in on shimano for 20 years, i realized i can spend a $100 bucks on shimano and it functioned better than the $200 plus class of any other brand and when i spent $200 on shimano i was blown away at the performance, nithing else compares!
Same reason why I stick with Shimano reels. Just feels sturdy and my confidence always seems to build quicker w them. I do have a Tatula CTR it’s a great too but like you said if I had a choice...Shimano .. plus they have affordable reels that work great too. I have always been a reel dependent versus rods by that I mean I feel more comfortable spending money on a nice reel vs a rod just my preference. Your arsenal is pretty dope regardless of how you’ve acquired it. Keep coming through w those fishing vids best of luck!!!
Dobyns rods. Championship line. You will use your Powell for a fire poker after using the 734 or 744. Shimano all the way. The slx dc is just as good at $189. Please check out 13 fishing reels as well. You'll be shocked. Im a fellow Virginian and would not steer you wrong...
Great video and breakdown of your gear. I have fished Shimano for over 40 years, both fresh and salt water, I still have reels that are 20 years old Curados and Shimano is the best in my opinion. I have Shimano rods and GLoomis rods also some are 20 years old and I enjoy fishing with quality gear. I will admit I have to work hard for my money, but I found some great deals this past Black Friday at bought a Bantam MGL paired with a G Loomis IMXPro 863C which is a 7’2” medhvy and I saved over $200 .... Best of Success with your channel and Fishing. Glad I subbed.
Thpught this was a going to Lews video. But you threw a curve ball. Appreciate that. Hope you are able to work with Powell. Your recommendation drove me to try one and I like it.
welcome to the shimano club! i as well have fished the brands you have mentioned, took the chance and bought a chronarch mgl and a stradic ci4+ and was hooked... they are hands down the best in the sport!
Just got my first Shimano same one you got. Been fishing diawia since it was the best affordable reel in the group. Got a deal on a the Shimano and I'm in love. I now am going to be making the switch as well bro.
I only noticed the daiwa tatula elite in the last video because I just picked up a bunch of new rods this year and the elite ags was the one I got and paired with my dc
Picked up both the shimano stradic spinning and shimano slx dc baitcaist, paired both of them with bass pro's pro qualifier 2. Upgrading to those combos and I can never look back now. Both combos feel so much better than any other set up I own. I get it...wanting to stick to one brand that is comfortable to you.
Agree with you as far as shimano feels go- as far as rods I would definitely look into a megabass rod whether it’s second hand or new. I have never felt sensitivity and more refined rod in my life.
I love the Shimano reels, but I had a pretty bad experience with the exage rods. I bought two of the 7'2" mh fast rods, and they both broke on hooksets with 10lb mono within a few months of buying them, and Shimano wouldn't honor the warranty because I bought them off eBay even though they were brand new. I did catch my first muskie on one of them so I'm still happy, but I'm going to be trying different brands now.
I’m a fan of abu Garcia they feel really good in my hand really smooth good weight and I put a lot of the cheaper ones to the test throwing big swimbaits glide bait even with a 6-8oz bait they never feel under powered plus they don’t break the bank they are my go to brand I even have some old abu reels love them as well
Matt, Love the old Diawa Lexa my first bait caster was a 100 and still in use. A workhorse of a reel. At the end of the video I am not sure you picked a brand. You still seemed undecided. I am of the school of thought no one brand does it all. I have tried to use one brand and it has not worked out well. Maybe St. Croix if I could afford it would fit that bill. There maybe more out there and I just don’t have experience with them. Good luck with what ever you decide. Tight Lines.
Shimano reels rule, next time your down in florida, i wound enjoy putting you up and taking you to fellsmere (strick marsh farm 13) kayak only part before the boat ramp is put in, fish on
I can’t bring myself to use crankbait either. I will use whatever I can to avoid it. I like lipless, chatterbait, hard swimbaits but I really want to implement crankbaits this year.
Funny that you're doing this video now. I'm about to jump down the Shimano/Powell rabbit hole I think, looking at that endurance line primarily with a a few SLX DC's., might throw in a Scorpion or Curado DC as well. Only have a 5 baitcaster line up and 2 spinning. Now to sell a kidney to pay for it lol.
I have a 4k twin power, a 5k stella, a saragosa, & a stradic they all have heavy bodies on em when it comes to stripers an they've never failed me... It's just like ODM when it comes to rods.. Freshwater I run all shimanos & st.croix's... I've always really stuck with what I've known.. If you're ever in CT an wanna hoist some big stripers lmk...
I totally agree with your buddy! Definitely go single brand. I’ve been experimenting over the last couple of years with different rod and reel combos, lengths, gear ratios, cork handle, foam, standard eye, micro eyes, and with $200 rods to $60 rods. Diawa, shimano, reels etc. Shockingly, my preferences all wound up at the pretty low end of the price spectrum. All my rods are 13 Fishing, Omen, Defy series. And my reels are various Kastkings, with one 13 baitcaster. My spinning reels are all 2500 Shimano Sedonas. I could pretty easily afford $200-$400 set ups but love my 13’s, my Kastkings, and Shimanos... plus, I tend to be fairly tough on my gear. I dc be pretty bummed if snapped a $300 rod vs a $60 rod. The way I see it, and believe is; today’s lower end is yesterday’s hi end 🤷🏼♂️🏄🏼♂️🎣
Started with lews and wore them out, made the jump to shimano and now own most of their reels. Just ordered the 2020 Metanium mgl. Try some Nrx or conquest rods!
What a great vid man! I mean, hell -- ya covered it all......... and it's your perspective; hell, you're the one that is out throwing 'em everyday, right!?! --- A nice in-depth review of what ya throw. Nice!
I have also fallen into the Shimano pit and loving every moment of it!
Shimano reels are my favorite! I love the rods too
Robert Reid can't wait to try their new intenza rod.
I love my Dobyns fury rods, for the price point, they seem unchallenged. Great video Matt
Dobyns fury.... excellent rods at their price points
Dobyns and Shimano, that's the way to go imo, love em. I've had lews and other brands but I always go back to the Shimanos. Same on the rods
I feel the same, i just wish the handle and butt cap was longer though.
@@GabeReelLA I fully agree. On the other hand, I noticed on my poles that do, setting the hook becomes more complicated. I prefer a short handle on my 735c and 765FR for set purposes.
@Michigan Fishin Might be my next worm rod then!
1 pound == 16 ounces, any good pot head should know this :D
MrFuckface2013 the really good ones can even break it down to grams
448 grams
Its actully 453.592 grams
I think he meant to say a pound even a pound and a half which would be 24 ounces. JMO
If you're a musky guy you'll know.
Replace your tip guide on that Emperor rod, I had the same thing happen on my St.Croix. I run a Q tip around the guide inserts, if there is even a small chip or crack, the cotton on the Q tip will get snagged.
I use the st Croix bass x rods. Have 11 of them. 10 bait casting and 1 spinning. Absolutely love them. They don’t break the bank either. There warranty program is awesome and if you ever have an issue they are very easy to deal with and get ahold of. Shimano reels. Not much needs to be said about that. There the best reels on the market imo. Cool video man.
St croix warranty is the best in the buisness🔥 I get my legend tournament bass replaced for 20 bucks from my local tackle store ! 6ft8in med light fast action spinning rod is amazing
bass x or mojo series are the best bang for your buck with st croix. i havent had any bass x but ive had a few mojos and absolutely love them for around $100 per rod
I've got 3 bass X rods and that's what's at my feet on the boat. My favorite is the 7 4' heavy. I use it for flippin and froggin and even throw big swim baits on it and it does work man
Have 4 bass X rods myself and out of my entire line up of rods one is in my hand 90% of the time while on the water
I just picked up a bass x, I have to wait for some ice to melt but I’m excited to use it, price point was great and st. Croix is a great company, I’m glad to hear other people like the bass x, I wasn’t sure about it because it was a little cheaper, I was looking for the mojo but they didn’t have one in the specs I wanted so I went with the bass x
Man, hearing you talk about one brand of rod to achieve the same feel regardless of which set up grab made so much sense. I've been toying with the idea for a while now, but couldn't explain why. Now I can justify my obsession.
People always love cheaper gear until they try something more expensive.
True that! I won't go back St croix, dobyns, and shimano.
My first fine quality rod are the Shimano lesath Shimano no longer make the same quality so now I switch to zenaq
Zenaq top rods on the world !!!
Jose Manuel Fernandez Sanjorge I’ve never heard of that company. Can you buy those rods in the states?
This is such bullshit, iv'e got $1000 rods and $100 dollar rods. Same for reels and there are certainly amazing rods and reels in the 100-400 mark, in fact id go as far as to say people spending more than $500 are morons and aren't doing any research. If your spending big bucks on anything that isn't a 25kg+ fish you are wasting your money.
True
Fish almost entirely with Curado rods and reels. Very happy with their quality and performance. 🎣
Shimano reels, mix of St Croix and Dobyns rods. Love it
Awesome Matt! Totally agree buddy..all about preference and what feels right! Sweet arsenal!! Good to see you back home in VA 👊
As someone that hasn’t been using bait casters for very long at all, I will say my experience thus far has been absolutely awesome with Shimano. I have a 2 favorite rods, and 1 shimano. But all my reels are Shimano. I’ve tried a couple different ones but Shimano has been my best. I appreciate your perspective on preference. One size does not fit all in this category! Always putting out great content, thank you! Keep it up 😎
I still throw Berkley Lightning rods with old school Shimano Curado CU-201s. Haven't updated to the new school due to confidence, affordability and dependability. Fairly inexpensive to buy second hand too. I enjoy the consistency. I'd be interested if you're selling btw.
Rods and reels are very subjective my friend. I like lews and abu Garcia. I also use power pro braid and never have an issue. Let’s not forget that fishing is as simple as you let it be... use what you like and have fun!
Happy ya liked my home state, I’m pretty fond of it! As for rods n such, I have a mixed brand bag and love them all. They all have their pros and cons! Thanks for sharing!
I'm waiting for the arrival of my second Cutado DC. Love my first Curado and your other DC video prompted me to get another... First one for bass, the new one I'll try using for heavy artillery going after pike and maybe even musky. Takes me forever to save for these but beyond worth it.
I've been building my fishing arsenal for 30 years, 15 G-Loomis rods with Shimano reels and they give you confidence every time you cast them.
i love my nrx. but i hate using it cause it its so bleepin expensive. im a little paranoid about breaking it (doubt i ever will but meh. can you blame me? its a beautiful piece of craftsmanship). id honestly probably part with it to get a few more kistlers. my helium 3 is right up there with the nrx in sensitivity. and gary loomis has his hands in the blank design too. gloomis and shimano is THE combo. tho. ive got a SLX XT paired with my helium. and a metanium on the NRX
@@cheabuns8168 One of the reasons I went to GLoomis rods is because of their guarantee. Funny I broke rods before but have never broken a Loomis rod. I have a 6ft casting rod GL3 that's my first one and it can wail a swimbait.
“This is why I’m leaving favorite” lol so many people actually made those videos and I laughed so hard
Helped me get some favorites cuz all the sudden they weren’t always sold out anymore 😂
Man those are nice but Ambassador c3’s have a special place for me fo sho.
Curt Beasley I’m a fan of the c3’s myself brings back just good memories
The Dobyns DC805CBRM is an 8' Med/Hvy, Mod/Fast Action, graphite Crankin' rod. 10-20 lbs line, 3/8-1 1/2 oz. baits. Normal to oversize baits. (10xd)
It's primarily my S-Waver 168 rod, secondary all treble hook baits and small swimbaits, chatters, spins, etc.
If you wanna cast the farthest you gotta have an 8' rod.
I'm still running a Curado 200i HG with Boca Spool Bearings, RC handle bearings, Carbontex drag washers and F-1 super lube or Boca high speed lube if I can't find the F-1.
Power Pro 30 or 40# braid. 10, 15 or 20#, 8' or 16' mono leader.
It's an absolute weapon from shore.
I have a few of the Shimano SLX series rods and reels, both are amazing. And the DC is life changing! They are so much fun to fish with, even if you aren't catching anything.
If you ever get the chance to look at the St. Croix muskie rods check them out.
Thanks for the comment love, Matt.
Great advice at the end to not break the bank for a sweet rod. I fish with $10 zebco combos from Walmart. Sure I would love some higher end stuff but you have to be honest about justifying the expense. $100 dollar rods and even more expensive reels just don't make sense if you are just hitting the lake on weekends when you can get away.
Great stuff and Shamanoo makes great gear. It's good to see them finally dropping into the bargain market however.
I'm like you. I've fished for some time now and my more all purpose rods are like 7'4 to 7'6 mh. Absolutely love the casting distance and lenght that just adds to better casting.
Completely agree with you on the Shimano Reel situation. I've fished abu garcia, lews, and others and since buying the Carado dc I am convinced that Shimano has got the right mixture of efficiency and castability.
Shimano def dominates my lineup. I have the Zodias Rods in ML spinning, medium casting and a medium glass version casting for mostly cranking. Also an Expride medium spinning which is very nice. Then two Stradics reels for spinning and a Curado DC plus a SLX DC casting. I have to admit I like the SLX DC just as much as the Curado DC. You should try it Matt! You’ll love it.
I did the same thing. Went to almost all tatula reels but they've only been lasting 2-3 seasons of hard fishing and only doing end of year maintenance. Started switching over to Shimano the past couple year. Have a Chronarch and a bunch of different Curados. I good so far, and the shimanos are the simplest reels for breaking down and clenaing IMO. Switched to mostly Dobyns for rods. I love Daiwa rods but am trying to simplify as well
Been slowly changing my road arsenal over to entirely Powell’s over the past 2 years. They’re the most sensitive and well-built for the money IMO
A guy that owns a local pro tackle shop told me to look at Powell when I inquired about a Dobyns. He told me to go with Powell if I wanted to save money because the blanks are made in the same factory & most of them carry a similar/same model number. He said I could just cross reference the model number from Dobyns to the powells to find the one I'm looking for.
I swear by Vexan rods and 13 fishing reels. To me, that setup is a perfect pair in my hands. I used Abu Garcia Revo reels and Halo rods for a long time and that was a great setup as well. The Halo rods just seemed to get heavier and bulkier so I had to make a change.
My favorite rod I own is a Shakespeare 6 foot medium action given to me by my dad it’s a spinning combo with a quick fire Shimano spinning reel 2000 size very good for wacky rigs and small jerk baits
That's a pretty sick line up of hand me downs. You have super nice friends!! I hear what you are saying with the consistency across one brand and what not. My Lews rods definitely feel different from my Abu Rods.
So apparently if you leave a comment and get a heart and then edit the comment the heart goes away... dang RUclips😑
I notice you don’t have a frog rod in your arsenal right now. I would recommend the Shimano Curado 7’2 heavy, it’s my rod of choice for heavy jigs 1/2-3/4oz and all frogs and it’s a great rod, I have a Curado k on it and it’s so nice! The cork wears kinda quick but the blank is insane and has stayed fast or extra fast for the 6 months I’ve had it. I’ve dragged a 24” bass to the kayak with no trouble. Try it out it’s sick
Cool man...appreciate the HONEST feedback.
I am diehard Daiwa for reels. Granted, Shimano tends to stay just slightly out of my usual price range. I currently throw a Daiwa rg2500 on my spinning setup and a Daiwa Fuego in 7:3 on my baitcaster. (My everyday rods) not a single issue after 2 years other than the Daiwa Fuego baitcaster is a little bit noisy when line tension knob is just a turn or so loose to throw something a bit lighter. Magnetic drag works like a charm.
I'm glad you still like the old Assault Stick dude! Keep up the good work bud!
I have a plethora but my preference has always been Shimano. I'm not saying they are any better it's what I am used to over the last 30 years. The Curado was a very affordable baitcaster and it is rock solid. I still have my Curados from the 1990's. Crazy!
Gloomis and shimano is the way to go. I’ve been through a lot of rod company’s and just about every reel company’s and I’ve always come back to gloomis and shimano. Like you said though it’s all personal preference
Kendal Bracknell while shimano it is the way to go, my wallet steers me the other way when it comes to G Loomis😂
Max Walker 🤣🤣 they are pricey but worth it to me. I haven’t paid retail for any gloomis rods in a while. I buy most of them used
Yesss, a Metanium on a Nrx will ruin anyone
Almost all my reels are old low profile left handed green Curado 201's. Most are over 20 years old. Would like to update but these are indestructable. I have 14 of them. I did just finally get a Curado DC but I haven't got it spooled yet. Will be used for skipping docks on Gaston. My only right handed reels are the very old Lew's BB1NG's that I use for cranking. 4.3 to 1 gear ratio can't be beat for cranking.
My first baitcaster was a lews. Then I fished Abu. And I wish I never wasted money on the lews reel. Then tried okuma, and diawa. Then I finally got the curado dc. And thennnnn bought another one a month later haha. Never buying any other reel but a Shimano from now on. #lifechangingexperience
Dude, I feel the same, and did the same hahaha
If you have a chance, try the Tatula Elite 7' M/MH AGS casting rod, it's an amazing rod.
Try your tatula for flipping and pitching. Secondly the bite is going off in north east texas. One lake has produced a few 12s, and a couple of others have pumped some 10s out... pines is about to wake up as well. Caddo is going to produce a challenger for the state record or the lake record 16 +
I currently own about 20 rods and have a variety of different makes and models. Just picked up a Fenwick for 60% off so that was hard to pass up. Really like Kast King, Lews , Abu Garcia, for reels. But have to say the most important criteria for fishing is not what you fish but where you fish. Man give me a great location and it doesn't matter if you use the Pocket Fisherman (remember that from the 60s ?) you will get fish. It's hard (at least where I am) to find that consistently good place.
In my almost 2 years of regular fishing I’ve noticed one thing to be true: You can catch fish and have fun on the cheap stuff, but god help you if you buy something expensive. You’ll only wanna buy the expensive stuff after that.
Whiskey Gordon have you ever bought some expensive combo. Then you didn’t want to use it because you were afraid to break it? Happens to me. Hahaha.
I've bought some expensive stuff that was straight garbage. You don't always get what you pay for
BigBassBlake I’ve bought tons of cheap stuff that was straight garbage so that doesn’t disprove my experience just spreading my wisdom.
@@whiskeygordon2452 I wasn't trying to disprove your experience. Guess my words came out wrong...I know what you're saying. I associate the word cheap with low-quality. Sometimes cheaply made products are expensive, and sometimes budget based products are actually of a higher quality. Some brands to me are just superior in quality compared to others (from my experience).
For your Tranx 300 u need 65 pound braid & top shot 30 or 40 pound fluorocarbon like catching California yellowtail or tuna
I have a mixed bag but last year I start using 13 fishing and I have to say I love their rods and reels, I am now up to 3 reels, concept z, inception sz, and inception, and I have two of their fate black rods and they have been absolute work horses for me, no complaints at all!! After watching you and hearing that dc I am looking at getting a curado dc, I need that sound when I cast😂🤟👊🔥
Your presence on camera has really matured over the years. Great video.
Totally agree with your opinion on the Daiwa T-wing. I bought one as well and don't really see that it adds anything, won't buy another. I have almost all Lewe's reels, but I've never bought a Shimano. Listening to you, I might should try one, but I feel so invested with Lewe's, owning maybe 10-15 of them.
Again, great video.
Hey Matt, great video man. Love your content! 16oz in a pound brotha! Sorry I had to... lol. All good. You keep up the great work my man!! Happy New Year and tight lines!!!
I screwed up and knew this but that new Roman made bait is 24oz and for some reason it’s all I was thinking about lol
SBFISHINGTV all good my friend, just givin ya a little elbowing. Good fun. I’m a local so maybe we’ll run into each other someday. Thanks for all the great content!
You know what's crazy is that the shimano slx has the same handle as the curado. I've got the whole slx line up and a couple curados and I can't imagine using anything else but shimano. I've fished everything under the sun but shimano sets the bar man
I'm glad you're honest man and not just pitching brands to us that you're paid by. But, I love my daiwa's lol
Shimano Crucial rods with Abu or Lews. However my buddy fishing all Berkeley Lightning Rods and whacks then. It’s what your comfortable with. Great video
I have to admit, next to G-Loomis, I think the 6'th Sense rods work the best for me. I also have a pile of 2004 era Shimano Curado reels. Having the same reel and rods for consistency I think is beneficial, especially if you are casting into tight cover a lot and accuracy is important.
Shimano is very superior in my book for reels, that's all I've been using. Just got the SLX DC, heavily impressed for the price! Also the Shimano Curado K is incredibly smooth as well, might honestly be one of my favorites at the moment for flipping and pitching or just an all around! Moving to my impression on rods, I've been using Favorite for a couple years now, but I also have had issues with guides being chipped or being completely broken after I purchased them, not to take any credibility to the rod its self, they are a very nice rod overall. And I'll continue to use them until I can afford to replace them. Not sure what switch I will make next, might try out Powell as well. Also would like to point out the honesty in your videos brotha, you're a solid dude! 👊🏻
Curado DC on a Lews Custom Lite Speed Stick is my favorite setup. You're dead on about preference and comfort.
Best channel on RUclips. Best wishes from Germany
So I started out getting a bunch of different brands . I now love the SLX try it out I own about 9 of them . I have some DC the Currado dc . For $99 The SLX is reel much easier to switch everything over too . Then on the rods I throw all the time chatterbaits ect I put the currados on .I also bought 50+ rods and reels last year alone . I tried the favorite rods ,duckett ,I did fall in love with the dobyns fury line at $120 a rod not hard to get a line up of those either . So now I have all these rods and reels and I throw the 6 or 7 furys I have because it feels the same .God bless you for wanting $600 set ups for each combo lol. Always like seeing what everyone is throwing as well
I started out with my first reel being a bass pro qualifier and bass pro rod because it was $100 for combo during spring classic sale. It then became tradition to get a new setup each year because BP usually has one deal during spring sale that is good value. Now all my gear is bass pro. I know it may not be the coolest or latest but it’s consistent and a pretty decent product.
I have everything from Berkley Lightning Rods to Lamiglass Certified Pro's. They all have a time and place as tools. I have worked towards brand continuity in my bass rods. I own baitcasters from 6 manufacturers. Again all have a time and place.
Enjoyed video. I prefer having same rod and reel set up for the reason of having continuity when switching between different lures. I usually have three of same combo bait casters with a different lure rigged up and 3 of same with spinning rig.Same with ultra light tackle, have 3 of same set up with different lures. I feel more comfortable when swapping back and forth between lures. Just feel better to me knowing the reel. Now if I am trolling, I will use older different rods and reels, mainly for the budget factor. But if I could afford I would have same brand model reels. Works for me may not for others.
Used many rods and so far the abu Garcia Ike series has been my top favorite. Nice video!
I have tried abu, lews, quantum, bps, baitcasters over the years and they all worked ok. But I have all Shimano reels now and will stick with that !
I have all SLX reels and a Cardiff that slings the bigger stuff well too. Going for the Shimano dc reels next.
Probably get the tranx too !
Thanks for the vid !
I love my SLX combo and I hope I can expand my Shimano lineup in the future. I have found, personally, that magnetic breaking systems are harder to dial in and get use to compared with centrifugal brakes and Shimano's reels are buttery smooth and the spool releases are crisp when disengaged with the thumb and re-engaged with the reel handle.
Need to make another updated video of this!
I remember you slinging off a buzzbait that you had just tied on during a tournament with ace a few years back, idk if you were using power pro 😅
I have used the dobyns Sierra 6'10 medium for my jerkbaits. It's a fast action but it's more like a moderate fast. U have to check them out!!They are amazing. Super light and sensitive.
The Shimano Exage cranking rod is one of my favorites.
Zach M yeah I’ve got that rod and it’s insane it just powers them in and it barely even allows them to fight
Sixgill Kranken rod smokes it. Check it out sometime.
Nice aresenal Matt! I agree it would be nice to have all your rods feel the same in your hand. It would also be nice to have all Shimano reels on them!
Depends on the situation, for ultralight situations, I like an ugly stik, most medium duty situations I'll grab an ugly stik, but If I'm going hardcore like maybe trolling lake superior for salmon and lake trout or whatever, I'll usually grab an ugly stick. I try to use mitchell reels especially a mitchell 300, but a shakespeare or whatever will do just fine in a pinch.
Definitely a bunch of sweet setups!! I actually just started working with Denali rods and have loved there products! For the reels I’m still trying to find my favorite, I’m sure once I throw that DC I’ll be sold.
Shimano reels are the way to go. I’ve used their curados for a while now and I just got one with the DC breaks that I’ve really enjoyed casting with. I also like their 500 size spinning reels for a really small and light UL set up for trout fishing in creeks.
Shimano makes great stuff that is comfortable and pretty durable.
Nice vid homie! I think the Powell shimano switch is the way to go. Just picked up the new shimano slx dc and it's pretty rad so far, definitely my favorite reel so i own. If i had to pick a favorite rod itd either be my denali attax 7'6" x heavy fast frogging rod or my 7'1" st croix bass x which i use for light Texas rigs and finesse jigs. Keep up the dope content homie! P.S. (3:12) there's 16 oz in a pound not 24
I personally am a Shimano guy. I mostly have Shimano reels. I am a little more curious when it comes to the rods though. With Shimano I know exactly what I am gonna get and how it will hold up. With other brands I can't say that. Not saying they are bad, but just not to the quality of Shimano. I think you are definitely making the right choice with them. Now for the rods, if Shimano still made the crucial series of rods with the EVA grips, that is the rod series I would go with. Or the Cumara series.
Ive been all in on shimano for 20 years, i realized i can spend a $100 bucks on shimano and it functioned better than the $200 plus class of any other brand and when i spent $200 on shimano i was blown away at the performance, nithing else compares!
if Daiwa is your most comfortable rod why wouldn't you continue to keep them in your arsenal? just a thought
Same reason why I stick with Shimano reels. Just feels sturdy and my confidence always seems to build quicker w them. I do have a Tatula CTR it’s a great too but like you said if I had a choice...Shimano .. plus they have affordable reels that work great too. I have always been a reel dependent versus rods by that I mean I feel more comfortable spending money on a nice reel vs a rod just my preference. Your arsenal is pretty dope regardless of how you’ve acquired it. Keep coming through w those fishing vids best of luck!!!
Been a shimano man forever got some that are over 20years old,they speak for themselves,oh and their rods are awsome to check em out
I have a Powell and I love it
Dobyns rods. Championship line. You will use your Powell for a fire poker after using the 734 or 744. Shimano all the way. The slx dc is just as good at $189. Please check out 13 fishing reels as well. You'll be shocked. Im a fellow Virginian and would not steer you wrong...
Great video and breakdown of your gear. I have fished Shimano for over 40 years, both fresh and salt water, I still have reels that are 20 years old Curados and Shimano is the best in my opinion. I have Shimano rods and GLoomis rods also some are 20 years old and I enjoy fishing with quality gear. I will admit I have to work hard for my money, but I found some great deals this past Black Friday at bought a Bantam MGL paired with a G Loomis IMXPro 863C which is a 7’2” medhvy and I saved over $200 .... Best of Success with your channel and Fishing. Glad I subbed.
Thpught this was a going to Lews video. But you threw a curve ball. Appreciate that. Hope you are able to work with Powell. Your recommendation drove me to try one and I like it.
I would definitely try a few more Dobyns casting rods to give them a shot.
HellaBass there worth it homie
@@joshuavanscoyk9404 💯
welcome to the shimano club! i as well have fished the brands you have mentioned, took the chance and bought a chronarch mgl and a stradic ci4+ and was hooked... they are hands down the best in the sport!
Just got my first Shimano same one you got. Been fishing diawia since it was the best affordable reel in the group. Got a deal on a the Shimano and I'm in love. I now am going to be making the switch as well bro.
I only noticed the daiwa tatula elite in the last video because I just picked up a bunch of new rods this year and the elite ags was the one I got and paired with my dc
Picked up both the shimano stradic spinning and shimano slx dc baitcaist, paired both of them with bass pro's pro qualifier 2. Upgrading to those combos and I can never look back now. Both combos feel so much better than any other set up I own. I get it...wanting to stick to one brand that is comfortable to you.
I love my evergreen heavy flipping rod paired with my Tatula sv tws. And my Duckett cranking stick paired with my shimano SLX.
Agree with you as far as shimano feels go- as far as rods I would definitely look into a megabass rod whether it’s second hand or new. I have never felt sensitivity and more refined rod in my life.
Those are some solid setups. I'm definitely upgrading some rods and reels when I get back to the USA
Just bought 2 slx dc reels couple weeks ago and love them so far the casting distance is ridiculous on them also love the handles on them
Started out with Lew’s got my first shimano slx dc rod and reel last year and I’m never looking back!
I love the Shimano reels, but I had a pretty bad experience with the exage rods. I bought two of the 7'2" mh fast rods, and they both broke on hooksets with 10lb mono within a few months of buying them, and Shimano wouldn't honor the warranty because I bought them off eBay even though they were brand new. I did catch my first muskie on one of them so I'm still happy, but I'm going to be trying different brands now.
I’m a fan of abu Garcia they feel really good in my hand really smooth good weight and I put a lot of the cheaper ones to the test throwing big swimbaits glide bait even with a 6-8oz bait they never feel under powered plus they don’t break the bank they are my go to brand I even have some old abu reels love them as well
Matt,
Love the old Diawa Lexa my first bait caster was a 100 and still in use. A workhorse of a reel. At the end of the video I am not sure you picked a brand. You still seemed undecided. I am of the school of thought no one brand does it all. I have tried to use one brand and it has not worked out well. Maybe St. Croix if I could afford it would fit that bill. There maybe more out there and I just don’t have experience with them. Good luck with what ever you decide. Tight Lines.
Shimano reels rule, next time your down in florida, i wound enjoy putting you up and taking you to fellsmere (strick marsh farm 13) kayak only part before the boat ramp is put in, fish on
I can’t bring myself to use crankbait either. I will use whatever I can to avoid it. I like lipless, chatterbait, hard swimbaits but I really want to implement crankbaits this year.
Funny that you're doing this video now. I'm about to jump down the Shimano/Powell rabbit hole I think, looking at that endurance line primarily with a a few SLX DC's., might throw in a Scorpion or Curado DC as well. Only have a 5 baitcaster line up and 2 spinning. Now to sell a kidney to pay for it lol.
I have a 4k twin power, a 5k stella, a saragosa, & a stradic they all have heavy bodies on em when it comes to stripers an they've never failed me... It's just like ODM when it comes to rods.. Freshwater I run all shimanos & st.croix's... I've always really stuck with what I've known.. If you're ever in CT an wanna hoist some big stripers lmk...
I totally agree with your buddy! Definitely go single brand. I’ve been experimenting over the last couple of years with different rod and reel combos, lengths, gear ratios, cork handle, foam, standard eye, micro eyes, and with $200 rods to $60 rods. Diawa, shimano, reels etc. Shockingly, my preferences all wound up at the pretty low end of the price spectrum. All my rods are 13 Fishing, Omen, Defy series. And my reels are various Kastkings, with one 13 baitcaster. My spinning reels are all 2500 Shimano Sedonas. I could pretty easily afford $200-$400 set ups but love my 13’s, my Kastkings, and Shimanos... plus, I tend to be fairly tough on my gear. I dc be pretty bummed if snapped a $300 rod vs a $60 rod. The way I see it, and believe is; today’s lower end is yesterday’s hi end 🤷🏼♂️🏄🏼♂️🎣
Started with lews and wore them out, made the jump to shimano and now own most of their reels. Just ordered the 2020 Metanium mgl. Try some Nrx or conquest rods!
What a great vid man! I mean, hell -- ya covered it all......... and it's your perspective; hell, you're the one that is out throwing 'em everyday, right!?! --- A nice in-depth review of what ya throw. Nice!