Craiger12

I recommend going with the DX743. Personally, I prefer full cork handles to split. Also, the added length only helps with hook sets and moving line easier. I completely understand if storage is an issue, otherwise I would go for the longer rod. I have a DX743 for senkos and light jigs/t-rigs, and I have a hard time when I switch from my DX 784ML bc of how short the DX743 feels.

While I'm sad to pack in my normal gear for the year, I'm excited about my first season of ice fishing. I have never done it before. Just picked up my first setup and a few lures to try out once the lakes freeze over. Almost time to see what it's all about. Anyone else planning on dropping a line through the ice this year?

Full cork only.

I went with Toray Superhard Upgrade a few years back for all bottom contact presentations except heavy weeds and will not go back. It is expensive at $37 for 164 yards, but I can fill 2 reels with one spool using backing and the line lasts a full season, longer if I don't break off too many times and just need more line. Worth the increase in price IMO.

Same here. I only use the Palomar for line to lure connections regardless of the line I'm using.

Dobyns is $80 now for the no questions asked replacement service, but I agree, excellent customer service and not bad for a $350 rod.

x2. There will be more memory, but it has never been an issue for me when on baitcasting gear. IMO the increase in strength and abrasion resistance is worth the added memory. Certainly would not recommend anything higher than 6# on spinning gear though.

My Daiwa Zillions.

Zillion 50th. Best in my arsenal, but I'm fond of all the Zillion variants. They are tanks and fit perfectly in my hand.

Catt - do you reel down and set immediately on the fist "tick" of the line or do you try to feel if they are there at all? I always tell myself I should set sooner, but find myself doing the latter more often than not.

I use 12# P-line CXX for all my spinnerbait fishing. It is incredibly strong and abrasion resistant, which some will argue is due to the slightly larger diameter than most 12# lines. But this is why I don't feel any need to go above 12#. You may want to bump up to 15# if throwing into the nasty stuff though.

I would go with pork.

I have read great things about Tatsu and I'm sure they are true, but I have been using Toray Superhard Upgrade for all bottom contact presentations for the past few years and find it to be excellent. It is a stiff line, especially in 16#, but I love it for jig fishing. The sensitivity and abrasion resistance is excellent and I have no desire to try a different type of fluorocarbon. So for me, it's Toray.

Dobyns

I fish mine straight out of the package. Just throw on your favorite trailer and you're good to go.

Zillions are my personal favorite. They are a beast of a reel and the profile is perfect for palming in my hand. I have never paid full retail for one though, especially not now with the relatively recent price increases by Daiwa. If you do decide to get one, go used.

As stated above, the Dobyns 733C or 734C is the rod you want. I love my 733C for 3/8oz and 1/2oz spinnerbaits. If around heavier cover you might go with the 734C. I believe the 733C is the ultimate 3/8oz spinnerbait rod.

I would go with the Owners for a 2x treble. May not be exactly what you're looking for, but they are top quality if you don't mind the price.

What do you plan on throwing with the rod? As stated above, there is no single best answer, but knowing what you plan to use it for would be helpful.

Toray is the manufacturer. Specifically which line are you talking about? I have been fishing Superhard Upgrade fluorocarbon for the past few years for bottom contact presentations and agree with what you have stated. Excellent sensitivity and abrasion resistance. Of course this means significant stiffness. However, I have had no issues with the 14# and 16# on baitcasting gear. Would not recommend it for spinning reels though.

Owner

I fish both, but prefer Daiwa over both. I love the Zillion platform and plan to fish them for many years to come.

Jig

x3

x3. Your treble hook/spinnerbait setup can be used for topwater.