SWMIBASSER

Well I found a deal I couldn't refuse. New Pflueger Supreme 8030 for $73.99 with free shipping. I wanted to try the XT, but I've been very happy with the regular supreme, and I'm not a big fan of the Gold/yellow color. I don't hate it, but it's not my favorite.

These types of threads quickly turn into an arguing match. That isn't my intention. My reason for choosing the Revo is in part due to an attachment to the brand since first starting with baitcasting gear years ago. It's what I learned on, it's what I like. Second, the reels peform pretty similarly, so I like the Revo for it's construction. Aluminum crank handle sideplate, and bearing suported components vs bushing supported. In the end, you are absolutely NOT going to go wrong with either reel.

d**n! They used to be made right here in the US. Of course then it was a marketing point, and they don't mention that anymore. I found something on a google search mentioning the moved the manufacture from MS to China, but the link was dead. Whatever. I got the general idea. So then, I'll waver a little and say I would rather support a US based company.

Not sure. I'm sticking to Rapala, and Bandit. Bandit is not only one of the cheaper crankbaits, they come in TONS of colors, are very effective, and made in the USA. Sorry I couldn't help you. I've been going the opposite direction. I see all the new japanese stuff cutting into the american tackle market, and with a few exceptions here and there I try to stick to things made right here in the US

Check out the Bite Me bait company. They sell them, or VERY similar, but they are made here in the USA, and they are comparatively inexpensive. I like to support small tackle shops when I can, especially the relatively local ones.

Revo

It's funny I've given guys a hard time about choosing based on appearance. But I'm really curious what an XT looks like mounted on a rod. Heck to 'ME' a $375 combo is alot of money so I want to be darn sure I'm happy with all aspects.

Looks like most people don't bother to pay the extra money for the XT

How do the Legend Tournament rods by St Croix compare to the Mossyback Loomis rods? I think I have it narrowed to a 7ft Legend Tournament, and a Mossyback 7'1 M I like the Legend Tournament. I checked that one out in person. I also like the mossyback, but haven't been able to check out the 7'1 in person, just a 6'8 version. Anyone fished both? FWIW I also checked out an IMX and at $265 I might have been interested but it was to moderate an action for what I want.

So other than the color and the oversize bail wire what is the different between the Pflueger Supreme, and the Supreme XT?

I'm going to use a bunch on spinning gear this year. 1/8 and 1/4 small finesse jigs with tiny chunks and tiny paca craws.... Part of my resolution to finesse-i-phy all my presentations this year. I'll still use 3/8 and 1/2 jigs on casting equipment for pitching and swimming jigs.

Greased or dry is fine. I like to grease most of their drags but leave the Premier/Skeet dry. I haven't tried greasing the Premier/Skeet since it only has one drag washer. It may function fine, but I haven't tried it.

Jig/pork, chigger craws, drop shot w/various plastics, shad raps and Rapala DT Flat.

Just to double check you are talking about the drag right? As I understand Daiwa and Shimano drags are greased, and Abu are dry. With the multi stack Abu drags you can grease them, to make them a little smoother especially in start up. I've greased plenty of stock Abu Carbon Matrix drag washers with good success. You just don't want OIL in the drag.

I can't comment on the Ultra Soft. Or with the heavier weights. But I can directly compare 100% Flourocarbon in 10lb test with 8lb test Y/Z Hybrid. I don't see any difference in sensitivity. I'm happy with Y/Z and am switching EVERYTHING over to it this year.

I don't know if I'm the only one noticing this but some of the new "budget" fishing rods like this one, the Buuco, Vendetta, Tessara, etc have nice light casting rods, but the spinning rods are poorly balanced and much heavier. Just an observation. People may read reviews of these rods and assume the spinning rods are the same. IMO they are not.

Where at in Indiana are you located? Northwest....Valpo area. Do most of my fishing, though in SW MI...Sister Lakes region. Your welcome to check out my combo. I don't go over that way anymore, but I could meet you in edwardsburg at Lunkers. Lunkers may have the SHR also. Last time I was there I think they did. About two weeks ago.

I think it depends on where you are from.... My jig rod has had 14lb mono, and 15lb flouro on it. I'm dropping down to 10 or 12lb Y/Z Hybrid this season. The smaller diameter IMO, can only contribute to a more natural action, and less line visibility. Plus the Y/Z has a high break strength.

My absolute best drop shot worm was a "slim senko" that I bought in packs of 100 a couple years ago, on ebay. I wish I would have saved the seller. Those were killer.

I like the round weights, in 1/4 to 3/8oz for virtually all conditions. I haven't fished heavier cover areas yet but plan too. With a casting outfit. In this case I'm going to use "bass casting sinkers" instead of drop shot sinkers. You have to tie them on, but you won't loose them. When I first started drop shotting I used them for awhile until I tried the weights made just for drop shotting.

No problems at all. These are rock solid reels. Not sure about the XT. I think I'm going to get one though so I should be able to compare it to the regular Supreme. I used an 8030 with 10lb 100% Flourocarbon last season with 1/16 and 1/8 oz shakey heads with ZERO line management issues. These reels are light, smooth, manage line well and are fast. A pretty good combination if you ask me.

Each reel can have a few unique areas that need or can use attention. In all honesty, there are many reels that just don't need it. Others see a nice improvement.

I have a 8030 Supreme, and just serviced K macs Presidents in the 30 size. The president is definitely smaller

I like the 8030 as well. It's not a big spooled reel, but not what I would consider small either. FWIW the 30 series in a President is quite a bit smaller.

Also in that book, he points out that the oil based scents like alot of the gels and sticks are useless and bass never even notice they are there....