rangerjockey

If price isn't a factor, the Steeze AGS BC2.

On a baitcaster I only use braid on my topwater rods. If you want to try fluro just get a spool of Invisx or Sniper. Back in the day I got Vicious for free. That line probably wouldn't be at the top of many folks list but I caught a lot and I mean a whole lot of fish on that stuff and even won a few bucks with it. I use 10lb. invisx on my finesse jig rods and 12 on my football and bigger worm rods. I can still remember the last fish I broke off, with it, it's been at least 5 years.

I plan on getting one also..Anyone see a price ?

Of course, I agree with TNBankFishing. As you may know, a shaky head is a bottom technique, while minnow shaking is a completely different one. With the pressure on fish these days, you have to consider finesse fishing with a medium/medium-light spinning rod or BFS if you're inclined. In my opinion, a jig/Texas rig, swim jig, and bladed jig rod are at least two, if not three, different rods. The Daiwa Tatula Elite rods are really good and have models to cover any technique. I have eight in the boat right now. I hope you won't take this the wrong way, but if you're missing fish that bite, it's not the rod. But hey ,it's your money and you worked for it. Lastly, believe maybe half of what you see on you tube. Many of those dudes couldn't catch one in a barrel.

I don't care for EWG's unless the bait is too thick. Otherwise I use a straight shank Trokar T-130

I knew there had to be a you tube "pro" in there somewhere. What a bunch of bull. Put on your lab coat and oil it.

Not to be a buzz kill but after reading all of this I kind of have a different take on it now. I really don't think you need an NRX or Steeze, You're just learning and that's about learning new techniques and baits. For the same money you could buy 2 or 3 good rods for finesse fishing , moving baits and a dragging rod. You won't catch any more fish on the top tier rods.

The Rod locker has several used Steeze on the web site now. It would be worth a call to Brian to see what he can do. I'm sure he could find you an NRX also if you decide to go that direction.

Any questions you have about Kistler call the shop and talk to Trey or Ruben and get answers. Trey is one of the genuinely nice guys in the business. As to the NRX vs Steeze hold them side by side and you will see the difference in build . Doesn't mean one will catch any more fish but NRX is no Picasso and I've fished them since they were introduced. By the way, what rod are you fishing now ?

The Helium is very close to NRX. It's a better build for sure as the NRX looks like it should cost $89.99. The Helium and zbone share the same blank now with difference being in the guide train,

First of all, there's no magic in any of them. I can say that because I get to fish a lot of rods. I'm not a Mega bass guy so I'll pass on those. The NRX 844 would be the best if you want a more versatile action. jigs,worms big spinnerbaits and walking baits. The 893 is my personal fave but it's going to top out about 1/2 oz. It also makes a nice spinnerbait rod though. Personally I use a Steeze AGS universal light for finesse jigs and Shakey heads and it also is good for jerkbaits and poppers ect. For bigger jigs and worms I use the AGS BC2 . I haven't priced one lately but there's no chance I'd pay $700 for one knowing I can catch the same fish on a Tatula elite or Fenwick elite/world class ect. You may want to keep an eye on Kistler . Trey runs some great sales . I picked up a Z bone a KLX and 4 Heliums over the winter at 50% off.

My wife has definitely got the hang of it after 30 years or so. If shes not available I use an old Plano spinnerbait box. 2 spools fit between each divider with some tension.

The 893 has always been a standout in the NRX line for me even though I've never been a big fan of the 89 inch models. Personally, I wouldn't spend that kind of money on an IMX. I think the AGS would be a better buy.

Zenon MGX

War eagle or E factor.

It's always changing but right now with them moving up. Neko , Jig, yellow magic and with some wind a spinnerbait.

Ol' Monster or Net bait C Mac in green pumpkin , plum or red shad

The fury 705 cb is or at least was the best selling rod across all Dobys lines. I think it's still worth $ 150 given what else is out there in that range. I wouldn't buy a one for a draggin' rod however. It seems like GSM is pushing Phenix more these days and leaving Dobyns to flounder .

I'm a big fan of Lucky craft RC 1.5 also. You can still pick them up on the auction sites but they have gotten pricey. After Rick Clunn left LC he went to luck e strike and they made a version that was also good. I like copper perch and black splatter back. The LC big daddy strike is another good one. In balsa , I would just buy Black label.

For me, it depends on the conditions. If it's windy, or cloudy I'm going with a moving bait first thing. Bluebird skies and slick may as well start dragging something.

No, The first thing I do before starting to flip brush or boat docks is turn it off.

I just tried the Big bite pendulum. The eye is on some type of swivel which keeps you from having to tie a loop knot if you are so inclined. These and the Queen are my favs.

I own all of the rods mentioned , The one I never cared for is the FSS, it's too tight for my liking and MB left me holding the bag for 4 of the first gen Levante's they recalled. From what I'm hearing the new ones won't be out until next fall. It's a personal thing but you won't see me in line to get one. The Howell rod is pretty soft and it does make a good 1.5 rod and jerkbait rod even yellow magics but It wouldn't be my first choice for diving baits. Dobyns makes a fantastic crankbait rod. I have the 705cb in Fury and champion xp. Honestly ,I like the fury the best. Sometimes lesser quality graphite is your friend. You can use it for topwater and jerkbaits too. I'll dove tail off of cast by fly on the all'round. It will handle a deep little N as well as warts and Rk crawlers. I have a spinnerbait tied on mine at the moment.

Agree 100% I've been using the snack craw as a Finesse jig trailer for a year or so. I love the finish.

I have 1. I've had it for a couple years which means it must come through wood and rock well , I like the mat finish.