Bronzefly

I'm also a fan of the carbontex drag washers. I've found substantially improved performance in my Daiwa reels and my Shimano reels that don't have the Dartanium drag from the factory. I've put the Dartanium drag to the test and it has performed very well for me.

Another vote for the Curado E7... SWEET reel for sure!

I've used alot of FC lines and BPS gets my "best value" vote. I've been very impressed with the Trilene 100% and have been using the 17lb for some time now and really like it. I think the Sunline Shooter is the best I've used so far - but it's definitely not cheap.

Powell gets my vote for UNDER $150. It's a toss up with the Crucials on some particular models though, but they retail a bit over the $150 mark...

I have the GLX version of that rod and I use it ALOT. It may be rated as a medium heavy rod, but it's plenty heavy enough to pitch 1/2 oz jigs into cover. I find that I use it more often than the BCFR 894 - I break it out when the cover gets really nasty!

I haven't fished the Gen2 Dobyns sticks yet, but considering the value play involved, the Powell rods are very hard to beat right now at $139.99 to your door or $159.99 for those over 7'. I've used many Kistlers and many Gen1 dobyns, and I'll take the Powells across the board as one of the absolute best "bang for your buck" on the market today...

I agree - the core is a fine all around reel. and DEFINITELY go with the CBR 845 over the cs rod. You'll be very glad you did...

Yes. I'm a big fan of stick jackets. Guys who have the "tube type" rod holders in their rod lockers can keep their rods untangled and unscratched with these things. I use them every time I go fishing with friends on their boats - it eliminates the tangled mess when carrying your rods around, hauling them in the truck, and of course in the boat.

+1

I'd go with 6lb yo-zuri hybrid or maybe 8lb P-line CX premium - both are fairly limp right off the spool and work well... my buddies use both brands on their kids spincast reels and don't have any trouble!

I've had and used a few different models now. I do not think these rods are in the same league in quality and performance as the Powell rods ($140 to $160) or the Crucial series ($150 - $180). The poor quality finish, components, and squishy foam handle just don't do it for me at all. They are light, and do stand out in a crowd that's for sure...

I've heard good things about these new rods... I really wish Dobyns well and hope everything has been worked out. Sticking a few on the big baits here and there

Pro staffer? ;D

I'd go with the Curado E7 as well. I love mine and they can be had several places for the $155 range TYD. On the rod, I'd take a look at the Powell 683... those are some fantastic rods in their price range for sure! If you haven't checked them out, for $139.99 TYD, they're awesome! http://www.***.com/descpageRDCPOWELL-PCR.html

Correct and the CUCX72MH feels a full power heavier than the CUC72MH in my hands

Check this out!!

$49 for a new Citica E??? I'd go back and buy every one they had. That is absolutely insane and the shop is definitely taking a big loss... Even at $119.99 it's a great deal for that reel.

I have used them all and they all have their place. I think the MBR 783 is an amazing spinnerbait rod for close quarters stuff, but not such a great small crank rod. The MBR 782 is a super sweet stick for tossing small balsa cranks and even up to a RC 1.5 - much bigger, and I'm not crazy about it. The 782 is fantastic for 1/4 oz spinnerbaits, but 3/8 oz. spinnerbaits don't feel right on it to me. Since you've already purchased an E7, I wouldn't suggest that you pair it with the CBR 845 as I don't like my mid-diving cranks to move along that fast. I love the CBR 845 for DT-10 type cranks, but don't like it nearly as well for spinnerbaits. I like the MBR series much better for spinnerbait applications. It sounds to me like you need to buy at least two, but maybe three rods. ;D

Both They each have amazing products and I couldn't just limit myself to using one or the other.

Boring? You guys must not be around alot of smallies ;D Sometimes it's slow, but sometimes it's fantastic. I enjoy the FnF. It can be done on the cheap as well. BPS sells a Microlite FnF rod for around $40 and one can use a relatively inexpensive spinning reel just to get into it. I prefer at least a 9'6" rod and a 2000 or 2500 size reel. It's easier to skimp on the rod than the reel IMHO. A great drag is critical. I use a Fireline main line - 14lb test - run it out to a 3-way swivel. Attach a weighted float, then attach a 6 lb FC leader. Leader length will vary from 8' to 18' (the longest I can cast on a 9'6" rod). I have a friend who makes custom FnF flies, but any will work. I search for bait around bluffs and points in clear water and go to town. I've had alot of success on this technique. It's not for everyone, but it can be loads of fun! It seems like the bite is always the best when the weather is at its worst. 35 degrees, windy, and spitting snow is the time to FnF!!

I'm a fan of big baits in general. When they decide to eat them, it's over. Here's a photo of a nice smallie taken on the brand new 7" 2oz. 3:16 Hyper Herring. http://www.316lurecompany.com/

I can't speak to the BPS reel, but the new Citica E is one sweet reel for the price. It would be hard to beat IMHO.

It's hard to beat a Loomis MBR 783 GLX and TD-Z 103h for all purpose action

That is a SWEET deal! The best I've seen for NIB anywhere. Looks like the supply of new right handed models is getting very short!

The New River looks like it's a fantastic smallmouth fishery. There is hope afterall!