SoCalRob

My buddy has both and says they are VERY similar, but that the Dobyns seems to have better balance with a reel attached. This being said...I have fished with a Powell Spinning Rod and was very impressed. I do own a 683C Dobyns Rod with a Revo S and it is my favorite combo I own. Either way...you're gonna end up with a nice rod. With that $30 break, I would probably save the $30, get the Powell, and spend the extra $30 towards a nice reel.

I assume all your baits were dark colored like black/blue, purple, etc?

I think you're talking about a spinning setup, correct? Can you give details of your old setup and new setup? You've got a medium heavy rod so unless you're casting like 1/8 oz. lures it should cast a good distance. Did the older rod have a stiff tip or a really whippy one? A rod with a whippy tip will cast lighter lures better. But if you're throwing some like a Senko, you should be able to throw that thing without a problem.

Hey all... Here's my situation: The fish are in weeds in about 6-10' of water. The weeds are on the surface and go down at least 3-5' into the water. There are some pockets that the fish may be hiding in or they are soaking the shade under these weeds. Water temp is about 75, but the fish have not proven to be active or willing to chase anything. What baits would you be throwing into these pockets that will not hang up? Would it be a good idea to throw a weightless worm/senko on top of the weeds? On the subject of floating worms, many articles I read say to use bright colors like white or pink. Whats your thoughts on this? Please help me out. I know the fish are there, but I cannot get them to bite any topwater baits like a buzzbait/popper/spook. And many of my plastic rigs hang up in the grass and I'm having a difficult time finding a presentation that works here.

That Crucial for $79 is a steal!

For the rod...I could spend $150 for the right rod...I just think the reel is too heavy for some reason. Any other concerns...I like the feel of my Revo MUCH better.

Hey all...its the baitcasting reel...have 14 lb. line on it right now. Was thinking of using it for topwater. I'm just curious what everyone is using this reel for. It is a bit on the heavier side and there is no way I could fish with it all day.

Hey all...need some advice on how to fish a spot that I've had several skunks in a row at. Anyhow...here's the situation: Fishing from shore at a small, shallow lake with very little structure. Can't seem to find spots with fish. However, the lake has had a severe algae bloom recently with huge patches about 20 yards off the shore. The depths range from 5-12 ft I'd say and I can only assume there are fish hiding in these weed beds. Especially with 100+ degree weather. This place is very high-pressured and difficult to catch fish. When you do, they are on plastics and they are few and far between. I have never caught anything on a lure of any type, while fishing topwater, spinner baits, etc. Lots of live-bait fisherman, many of which are poachers so I'm sure the bass population is dwindling by the day. If you were to fish these weedbeds, what would you use? Topwater is fun, but I have a difficult time finding confidence in ANY hard bait here. My first inclination is a weightless Senko, but after making 10+ trips here with only one multi-fish day and several skunks, I've just about had it. I like to fish, but tough fishing is a PITA.

If you are bored and reading this, go see the movie Wall-E. I'll admit I was dragged to see it, but its a very solid film on a lot of levels. Good for the kids and has a lot of subtle messages about society and the Earth. I suggest you see it!

Go with the Powell...it owns the Carrot Stix on all aspects except looks...and looks don't affect this kind of rod if you get my drift ;D

I just acquired this reel and it doesn't seem to be the right fit for any of my rods, so I may need to shop around for one. What rod do you have this reel on and what are you using this combo for? Thanks much Rob

Senkos and Roboworms!

I generally rig them skirt up with a EWG 4/0 or 5/0. Use a MH rod since you have such a large hook. I would fish this on spinning tackle just cause it seems to fall more naturally with the way the line flows off a spinning reel. To fish the bait, cast it out and let it sink on semi-slack line. Make sure you watch your line cause many bites on this you will not feel. Your line will tighten up or move off to the side. If you don't get hit on the fall, you have a few options: either give it small hops of the bottom and repeat this process until you have retrieved the bait. OR your second option bring the rod tip up to make the bait rise and then drop your rod tip to let it fall back. This works best in shallower water, but this bait will cast a mile. Just make sure you're not overworking the bait...it does most of the work for you. You can throw this bait anywhere...at the bank, into grass pockets, near brush and timber...it will work everywhere.

I have the 683 with a Revo and its my favorite rod I own

*** has also changed their prices on ALL powell rods.

Everyone know Powell makes great rods, but now they have lowered their prices. Their rods under 7' are now $139 and over 7" are the normal retail price of $169, instead of $199. I'm unsure if this includes the swimbait rods. If you are in the market for a new rod, consider this rod along side the Shimano Crucial Series. I plan to buy another Powell at this price point! I don't think these rods can be beat for that price! By the way, you can order at these prices at *.com. I'm not sure if other sites have adjusted their prices yet. P.S. I am in no way affiliated with either Powell rods or *...just trying to help out prospective buyers

Anyone using these and having success with these? Is this basically like a worm specifically for wacky rigging? Can you use it w/o the Jackall jig heads or do they work best together? Want to hear some of your initials thoughts on this bait. Used the search function and didn't see much so went ahead and starting this thread.

Dang man, that sucks.

I also have a Saros on my Crucial 6'8" MH rod so thats a good choice. On a budget I'd try: - Pflueger President - Shimano Symetre - Daiwa Exceler (like you mentioned)

** MODS feel free to move this to rods and reels...sorry for posting to wrong location. Flechero...does it sound like I have all the brakes on? Will changing this increase distance but also the likelihood of backlashes go up?

The Steez has got to be similar in quality to a GLX (only my assumption). The Steez appears to be a steal, but in the end evaluate which rod fits your need better and go with that. Also, if you go with the Loomis, get at LEAST the IMX version of that rod...GLX even better if its in the budget.

Hey there all... I've got my Revo S (my only baitcaster) and I need to learn to adjust it. I know how to take the sideplate off and use the brakes, but what is your favorite setting? With the way mine is set up now since I'm a newbie to Baitcasting, I don't even need to thumb the spool. I believe I have all the brakes on and my casts don't go so far. How should I set these for better distance but good backlash control? My thumb is not fully coordinated yet, but it will come around.

How do you justify spending that much money on reels? And is your company hiring? Those are some sweet reels. Take good care of them.

Probably not a good idea...a lot of the sensitivity you feel is from the tip. Is it a nice rod and does it have a warranty? A new tip at your local shop would be $20 or less. Or send it in on the warranty.

FYI on Southwest you can check a rod tube FREE as long as its 3" or less in diameter and 91" or shorter long. I had no problem cheking my rods over the weekend and no damage. If you need the link for this on their site, here it is: http://www.southwest.com/travel_center/sports_equipment.html