Bronzefly

The 100D was the best of the D series reels - and a very nice one at that, but my choice between the two would still be the Citica E... I like the frame design and the HEG is also great!

Perhaps, but then again, maybe not... if it is identical to the Aldebaran in feel, performance, etc. the comparison to the Core 100 won't be quite so simple IMHO. The Aldebaran is much smoother - and not just as a result of handle bearings - the reel feels much more refined overall and has a more solid feel in my hands. We'll see what others have to say very soon 8-)

I sure am... I totally forgot about the new creamy white Curado!! ;D My beef with the "new" core is that it's so close to the same as the original that it hardly warrants excitement. it holds way less line than the steez, so your turning less mass in the spool. Which is wonderful, if you like light line or use braid. :-X Want to trade a steez for a core? I hate to see you shorting your casts. I'll pick up shipping on both sides. The Core 50 is NOT so close to the original... I've been using the JDM counterpart, the Aldebaran for a few months now and I can tell you that the frame, feel, smoothness, and power are all improved in the Core 50. It's also available in a lefty 7:1 this time around. I've been using 15lb FC on my Aldebarans and haven't had any trouble being short on line. And yes, I did get rid of a steez to get another Aldebaran - I like them that much... The Core 50 is obviously the US counterpart and will be a phenomonal reel.

I'm also a full cork fan. Loomis are my go to rods. I wouldn't mind the loss of the foregrip, but I'd rather them stay like they are before going to the split rear grips... I have some split grip rods and they're fine, I just prefer the full cork. Also I DO NOT like the new ACS reel seat AT ALL!

I have the rods you've mentioned in GLX. They all have their benefits. The MBR 844 is going to be the best "all purpose" rod of the bunch. I'd prefer the 855 for 3/4 oz football jigs, pitching into heavier cover, and it makes an insane toad (not FROG) rod. The 854 is also a great rod that I like for 10" worms in deeper water. Both the BCR's are "less moderate" in action than the MBR, but the BCR's feel more crisp in my hands. Any rod you select will be great!

What a beautiful river!! I had an absolute blast out there and caught some quality fish. I learned alot about how things are done around there. My new friend was an awesome guide, very willing to teach and share the fishery and some secret spots as well. I'll definitely be going back again - hopefully sooner rather than later. Thanks to the mods for running a great site where guys can get together and help eachother out when fishing new areas!!

The Core 50 will be an amazing reel. I've had a couple of their JDM counterparts - the Aldebarans for some time now and absolutely love them. They're phenomonal reels and I'm glad to see that they didn't change much on the Core 50... I'll have to pick one up just to see though

Going up to fish tomorrow with a BR member! I'm excited - thanks guys!

I know some of you guys fish the New River... I'm headed up there next week and I'd like to talk to anyone who knows the area. I'll be around the Blacksburg, VA area and will have one day to fish. PM if you're willing to help out with some basic info. Thanks!

Another vote for the Loomis IMX series out of those you've mentioned. They're fantastic rods, no doubt.

haha, does anyone know what he caught it on In the link it looks like he's holding a triple trout type swimbait...

I like the palomar for larger FC lines - 15 and up. I have better luck with the Trilene Knot for 8, 10, and 12 FC. It seems to have superior strength for me.

Shimano worship site? Interesting observation... It seems to me that there are as many guys who are hardcore Daiwa as Shimano there. Some of us just like a great reel regardless of who makes it Good luck to the Patriarch dethroning either of the big guys anytime soon... sub 7oz. or not I don't think it will happen...

That is a very nice rod and reel. The BSR 852 has surprising backbone for a 2 power rod. Have you though about spooling up with some 30lb braid since the water is muddy? If there are big fish there and muddy water, the braid shouldn't be a problem... just a thought...

Both are good options. If you chose to have the rod covered under warranty, go to the G Loomis homepage, print off and fill out the warranty claim form. Enclose a check for $20, cut the rod in half (to save on shipping charges) put a piece of tape on the site of the break, and they will cover the rod under warranty. There is a section on the warranty claim form where you indicate that the rod broke on a hookset. I recently went through this process and recieved my new rod back in two weeks. The xpeditor service is generally faster, but you may want to call them to see if your specific model is in stock. They're backed up right now due to some factory retooling, etc. Good luck!

I've had and used a couple of them and personally don't think they're very well made and definitely not the best rod for the money. The component quality doesn't match the competition in the $150 price range, nor does the finish on the blanks. I'm sure some of you guys will experience "peeling carrots" after some extended use. The nice thing about it is that we all have choices out there and what works for some doesn't work for others. I like the Powells and Crucials in that price range WAY better than the CS...

The 843 is more moderate than the 783... the 844 is a great 1/2 oz jig rod as well - especially for heavier cover. I also like it for larger casting jigs in open water... if you find a deal, jump on it! I love it for 1 oz spinnerbaits!

I'd also go for the Curado E7 - or the Chronarch D7 if it's in your price range. The Chronarch handles lighter baits better, but both have HEG and plenty of drag power with the stock Dartanium drag system.

The over the counter warranty is good - as long as the dealer has the same model in stock. Sometimes the exact model is out of stock, but if you have a good relationship with your tackle shop, they may exchange for another model in stock. Otherwise, you'll just have to wait for them to restock. I think it's still the best warranty out there.

Hi NJ - That's a GREAT price on a GREAT rod... over 5/8 oz is pushing it for me with that rod. If you're looking for something to handle 3/4 oz. jigs, the 854 or 855 are going to be a better bet. 3/8 to 1/2 is "in the zone" for the 853 though...

Depending on the size of jigs you throw most often, and the cover you fish, the BCR 803 GLX is hands down the best 3/8 oz. jig rod I've ever used. It will handle 1/2 oz. as well, but it's perfect for 3/8oz. If you like a little longer rod, the 853 also has an extra fast action and performs very similarly. You can find them used for less than $300 and they still carry the lifetime warranty.

I'm also on the P-Line CXX band wagon... it's incredibly tough stuff and reasonably priced. I've recently tried out some 100% Nylon Sunline Shooter Defier in 22lb test and it is incredible stuff. Virtually no memory and smooth as silk. It is a "class line" meaning that it breaks at the actual rating. It is only slightly smaller in diameter than P Line CXX 15lb... it's expensive, but its pretty amazing stuff... The Sunline Super Natural mono in 20lb is the same diameter as PLine CXX 15lb and is much more manageable as well. I haven't put in alot of time with this line, but plan to soon...

One more vote for the Daiwa Pixy, better yet, turn it into a PixZilla!! It's absolutely amazing...

Loomis MBR 783 GLX for closer range, 3/8 to 1/2 oz. baits. MBR 843 GLX for burning spinnerbaits in open water, and MBR 844 GLX for 3/4 and 1 oz slow rollers...

I'd look around and find a Curado E5 at a discount... They aren't too hard to find for a little more than $150. It palms very well, casts great, and has power to spare.