evilcatfish

It seems the new xx rods and the jdm xxx are nearly identical except for the the fact that the individual models are geared towards the American market in the xx, and Japan in the xxx. I own an xxx and really like it, but I can understand the criticism as a lot of folks expected the new xx to have more of its own identity. These rods have been discussed extensively over in the tackle tour forums, as well as the others listed above. *Also, if you choose the Levante, I don't really see any reason to go with the japan limited one. Especially when you consider the US ones now run $169

What are you using the rod for? The rods you listed are all nice, but some are better suited to certain applications than others

Have you called Daiwa about the reel in question? Even if not under warranty they may be able to do something. I'm surprised the gears stripped that easily. I use a 7.3:1 and 8.1:1 Tatula for frogs and have had no issues.

You'd be fine with the Curado. I use a regular Tatula 100, or sometimes a Tatula HD on my 795 and both feel fine. I've actually found that larger reels aren't all that comfortable on the 795

Plenty of swimbaits out there over 10oz

The weirdest part is that if I go to the FedEx shipping calculator, the estimated total is in line with what I paid previously. Very odd

Hey all, does anyone here ship rods via FedEx? If so, have you noticed a significant price increase recently? I've always used them via my fedex account and shipping rods generally cost $20-30, but two recent rods hit my account for $65 and $70. Since I print a label at work and just drop the shipping tube off at my local office, I don't know what the bill will be until the invoice hits, but it's never been an issue until now. Unfortunately FedEx customer service was no help at all, so it looks like I need to find a new shipping service.

Those are smoking deals my friend. If you don't want them, I do!

Definitely check out the discounted xx rods at the tackle trap http://tackletrap.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=1066_941_942 Darn it, now I'm sitting here trying to not order one of the discounted xx rods for myself

The owner flashy swimmers are great hooks. I use the 3/0 on 3.8s and 1/0 on 3.3 or 2.8s.

Looks like Megabass Levante Rods are being discounted at most retailers. Not sure if they are clearing them out like they did the XX or what, but its nice to get Megabass for less than normal retail

I think you'd be best with the heavy, which is more like a medium heavy anyway.

My mistake

In no particular order, my treble hook topwater preferences: Lunker punker, chug bug, ms slammer, gunfish, giant dog x, pop max.

Not sure what you would be paying for the XX used, but not long ago they were reduced to close out price to make way for the new XX rods. If you look around you might find one from a retailer at the reduced price and still get the warranty. Otherwise, what about buying both then selling the one you don't like? Again, not sure what you are paying used, but I'd think you could resell either at zero to little loss since both are well respected rods.

Bettencourt?

I will say the pad crasher is probably the best value frog on the market. Ol smokey is a great color

The Luc e Strike Rick Clunns aren't bad. Also, Husky Jerks and Storm Twitch Sticks are fairly priced options and perform well for me

This is one of those questions where you ask 20 different people and get 20 different answers

Possession

I've got the 6'10". Too bad the handle on the 6'8" is so long, otherwise it might be just about perfect for you. If not the 6'9", what about the 6'6" crank/jerk? The handle is slightly longer than the 6'9" but not much

The only model I have real experience with is the iovino, but I really like it. I've used it for 1/4-3/8 poppers in a pinch and while it does a good job, always felt a slightly slower action would be just about perfect. Assuming the power is close to the iovino, then go with the medium.

Where did you buy the rod from? I know TW and other places can get you a copy of your original invoice I do think it's bs though that you have to provide proof of value. You paid extra for $300 in insurance, they broke your item, now they need to pay up

Hey guys, I'm picking up a new frog rod and am probably going with a Champ XP 735 or 736. Which one of these is more comparable to the original Powell Max 735? (Not the newer 3D) I know it's a long shot hoping somebody here has fished all the rods mentioned but figured I'd ask. I appreciate any input

Can a coupon be used via the "make offer" option? I was just thinking about this...