kickerfish1

Probably depends on how much you want to spend? The 5 powered dobyns rods like the 735 Savvy and Champion would be good choices for heavier apps. If you could swing it financially the Champion 735 would be a good choice.

I feel the handle and grip is quite comfortable for extended use. The very first generation of NRX rods had handle issues and breakage complaints from how it locks down. They have apparently fixed that problem going forward. I haven't heard much worry or concern on any rods recently so hopefully that was a thing of the past. There is a way you could tell a Gen 1 rod from a Gen 2 rod but I can't recall off the top of my head. But getting back to the grips and reel seat everything on mine seems to be just fine. I would not want to steer you stray on the NRX rod as when you are dropping about $400 you want to make sure you get it right. The 893/894/873 are all rods that are both popular and great for feel techniques on the bottom. On my 873 I fish a lot of 1/4 oz tungsten weights with plastic such as SK rodent or Ribbontail worm, 3/8 oz jigs with trailer, 1/2 oz jigs with trailer and some of the bigger 1/2 oz California style swim jigs. The rod handles all of these just fine. It would NOT be wise choice for a weightless plastic or casting 3/4 oz jigs with trailers. When you go down in length to the 853/854 and shorter I am not sure how they fish as some say they fish a bit lighter. It is odd that the custom builders find nothing special about the NRX blanks when they test them yet the guys that have fished dozens of rod lines will say that they offer the most feel and performance. I haven't tried all mid to high end offerings so it would be difficult to make factual statements about something being the "Best" plus we know that rods, reels, and line perform different to each of us. Probably the most overlooked aspect of the NRX rods at least my 873 is casting distance. I know it isn't as important as accuracy but I have never used another rod that gives me the same casting distance. I will conclude by saying the longer rods tend to have a "VERY LIGHT" tip heaviness to them but it isn't all that noticeable. Spent a few minutes handling an 893 at the local shop and felt the rod was very acceptably balanced given the length. I wouldn't put a feather light reel on it but something like 6.5. to 7.5 ounce reel would balance perfectly. Good luck, and I would say based upon the rods that you have used or currently use, the NRX would be a nice addition. If you don't like it for some reason the market is very favorable and you shouldn't have a problem getting $340+ shipped for the rod.

A friend has two children in sports year round and wife that works a schedule almost opposite of his. Between practices, games, team functions and work/school schedules he has about 1-2 days a month to fish. Even then its a roll of the dice as to what the weather conditions will be like.

What pairing is that Matt? Any upgrades to the reel?

Generally shallow. However water clarity and fish activity could dictate a deeper water use for them.

I was in a similar position 2 years ago. Had to select a premium jig rod and reel. Did a little research and decided on the 873 as the 894 and 895 were not released yet. The 895 even if available at the time, would be too stout for my usages. The 893 I was told would be a touch on the lighter side for 1/2 oz jigs with trailer. Decided on the 873 as it isn't really a true 3 powered rod. It is more of a 4 or 4.5 powered rod. The 3 comes from the CRR rating which would equate to a higher number in the BCR series. This is what I decided on and couldn't be happier. Blue 873CRR with a customized TDZ 100m. Casting distance is phenomenal for jigs and the feel and hook setting power are there.

The 893, 894, and 873 are great bottom contact rods if length isn't a concern. Also the blue vs green argument comes into play some. The blue rods aren't finished and "painted" like the green ones. Some say that they have experienced slight differences between the two colors. The green rods feel slightly heavier and not as sensitive but they were tiny distinctions.

Uh oh, which model are leaning towards?

Maybe just take this info and call Gary and see what plan would be best to get you the right rod. If you needed to you could sell the Champ Extreme that overlaps what your new rod would handle. Should help make the rod more affordable as well.

For Shimano's centrifugal breaking system the breaks are in the on position or applying force to the spool when they are extended outward where they would lightly rub the spool. If you press them inwards or down they will not touch the spool and not apply any breaking force. The only other adjustment would be the spool tension knob. Obviously the loser it is the more free it will be. Lastly would be to flush the bearings and apply one small drop to each. If you tried all of these it could be a rod or line issue. It is hard to believe that you aren't getting any normal distance from the reel if everything is set correctly.

Is the drive for a shorter rod based upon rod locker issues, transportation issues, or personal preference? I am not really sure what length would suffice as shorter? The Tour Versatile may be an option though I can't speak to how this rod fishes. Maybe ask Gary if he has a recommendation? Member KSchultz has the Diablo Spec R so he may be able to help there.

Man, the EMTF is a rod that should handle all of that well. The cork is average but in 2 years The rod hasn't pitted on me after sealing it with U40. My jig fishing weight classes are the same as yours when you include trailer weight. What can the EMTF do? Chatterbaits Spinnerbaits Small paddle tail swimbaits Rage rigs Weightless plastics Texas rigs Bottom jigs like brush or football Swim jigs Maybe KSchultz will see this and reply. He has a good knowledge of these rods and has a few. I talked to Gary at the Tackletrap before pulling the trigger. This was the model he noted as one of the best jig rods and feel rods in the lineup. I have thought about getting a second because of the rods uses.

705 would be my choice based upon weight range noted but if it were 3/16 to a 1/2 I would opt for the 704. I would take the glass for those apps but that's just me. It may just boil down to what you are comfortable with. I fish all of those in the weight ranges you listed on the 705 cb glass fast rod. If you are on the fence call Gary or Rich at Dobyns. They will point you in the right direction. Very helpful guys and nice to boot!

Correct, the X4 line of rods is typically more versatile due to their tapers. They can still fish jigs fine but they wouldn't be a first choice. The Orichi XX line of rods has great feel. I have two and also fish the Champ Extremes. The Orichi XX is a more sensitive rod in my hands. I wouldn't buy another Champ Extreme unless they redesigned them. They balance well and have good feel but the blank isn't all that lively to the tune of $300+. Not sure what sized jigs you toss but the EMTF is a good choice unless you fish heavy jigs, in dense cover, for better than average bass.

Hopefully you will like it. For what you paid it should be a solid buy. I love mine!

For spinnerbaits I would look at a the older Zillion reels. Mag Z braking, more beefed up internals, and bullet proof. The Steeze series reels would be better for tipup presentations.

First, welcome to BR! Second, Sniper is a MUCH better line so that should be a nice upgrade there. I am assuming that you are using Sniper as your main line and not as a leader while using braid? I use an improved clinch knot for everything and can get the knot to hold strong. Been using this type of not for too many years to count and I use it for every line type and technique to attach my hook to my line. You may want to check the inside of your weights to see if they are fraying your line. Tungsten weights generally are sold with and without inserts. Depending upon the quality of the weight and style that may be fraying your line. Also I wouldn't rule out Rock or Zebra muscles as a possible culprit for line fray.

I tend to use traditional over wacky but when fishing dropshot and flickshake rigs I use wacky style.

Surprised the line is still in existence. Used it for a walleye trip up north and didn't care for it.

Chatterbaits that thump and vibrate alot are just going to feel like that even if you fish them on glass rod or cheaper rod. The latter two may dampen the vibrations some but you will still feel it. Personally I don't mind the vibrations as I know my bait is running true. When that thump stops, I know the bait has struck some sort of cover or a fish has it.

Just keep your fingers crossed on the rod.

$12 shipping for a reel or rod? Your customs fees won't become apparent until they deliver it to you. These additional charges won't show up at the point of purchase. Not everyone gets hit with them and the amounts vary.

Very valid points Luckycraftman. Only thing to consider would be warranty support or possible lack there of from the custom builder.

Break it down into 3 camps... 1. A high end custom. If money is not a concern pick the best blank and components money can buy. Add trim pieces and decor to match the reel. Leave nothing behind that you would regret not getting at a later date. The build time would be only drawback however also consider a possibly lower resell value of a rod with your name on it and the name of the builder of there company. Also consider what warranty support they will offer you. 2. Your next option is to buy a JDM rod. Take a look at Evergreen, Megabss, Jackall, etc. The problem is you may be able to source some nice rods from reputable US dealers who can order them but you will pay full retail price. If you buy the rod from Japan expect to get hit with customs fees which could be $50-$100+. You will have no warranty support either unless purchased through an authorised US dealer. The craftsmanship and beauty of these rods is as good as you will find. 3. Of all the off the shelf rods that are performance driven it would be hard to beat an NRX. The rod is among the best for feel but the casting distance of the way the rod loads and launches a bait is incredible. You may be able to find a rep sample for under $400. You also have a solid warranty and great resell value and a market for them. What would I do? Not sure, I have all of the above options but if I had to buy another I would go with an NRX or Custom from a builder who will do exactly what I want done and warranty the rod in a way I was comfortable with. I wouldn't try an Archangel until I knew more about them and warranty support. I would find an NRX on sale on start there. It should meet your needs from a pure performance standpoint.

Rods are purchases you want to get right. For one, the resell value is spotty at times and shipping is pretty outrageous. Take a rod you paid $100 for. When you decide to sell it. You would be lucky to get $80 for it then subtract shipping. You are likely to get a net of $50. Therefore I try to make sure all rod purchases are thoroughly planned out and I am near certain I am making the right choice. I fish alot of feel apps vs the cranking reaction bite guys so most rods I have are fairly costly but have good feel and performance. My reels vary. Most of what I fish is Shimano and Daiwa. A few JDM reels in the mix. With custom and aftermarket parts reels can get pretty costly. Guys that like tinkering with reels and custom parts will likely favor a higher budget on reels. Not really sure where I fit into the mid. All in all probably 60% on rods and 40% on reels.