NorthernBasser

I'm kind of leaning this way. What do you feel comfortable throwing on it? Like I said I'm mainly looking at treble hook baits. But if it does small T-rig as well like @Big Hands says that makes it even more intriguing. As well as the new micro bladed jigs.

That sounds amazing!! I can only imagine the thoughts and ideas you have swirling around in your head over what you wanna do with it. Exciting times. Congrats!

One of my main Texas Rig rods is also a Helium. 7 MH/XF. It's the previous model built on the NFC blanks. Not sure how the new model compares, but that thing is insanely sensitive. It also only weighs 4.11 oz. Awesome rod.

You mention this rod can also throw tiny t-rigs as well as trebles. How do you think it'd do with the new MicroMax bladed jig (3/16 oz). With a tiny trailer would that be pushing it?

Are these previous models you guys are using? The 7'1 L on TW and Phenix site (BFS-C 71) is rated for 3/32-1/4oz baits.

The $119.99 model? Where the 7 speed has blue accents and the 8 has gold?

So you like the ICON better than the Sierra for the Karashi? Have you tried the 700?

I believe that's the one Matt Allen (TacticalBassin) uses for his dedicated Karashi? Is it really whippy? Do you throw anything else on it? Would it work for small topwater/cranks? I'd love to hear your impressions as well once you're able to play wit it more.

Sounds like the right call!

Awesome, thanks. I have been looking at that Gravity reel. As far as those CarbonLites, I see there's a 6' and 6'9. The 6'0 is their "BFS" and the one you have is the "Super Finesse". I'd love to hear your thoughts on it.

Pretty much any MH/F rod will do the trick. Whether it's fluoro, straight braid or braid to leader. With braid you just don't have to set the hook as hard if you don't want to.

If I'm able to get out at all anymore fishing, I've been thinking BFS/lighter tackle may be easier on me If I struggle with my regular tackle. I've always wanted to dip my toes into the BFS world, but just never have. I really wanna give that Karashi a whirl. Along with tiny cranks and tiny topwaters. The market has obviously grown over the last few years, which is nice having more options. But it also makes it harder to choose what setup to get. I looked back on a few older threads but was hoping to get more opinions on people who have had more time now with their rigs. If possible I'd like to stay around $250-$400 for the rod/reel. This would be for hard baits. Obviously if there's a rod that could double for other stuff as well, great. I just think it'd be a blast catching panfish on this as well, if the rod is right. Thanks for any help.

Pretty much all the top ones have been covered. Keitech's are usually considered the gold standard. And for good reason. But they definitely lack the durability of others. I'll add a drop of superglue on the base of the head to keep from sliding down the hook. That'll get you a few more fish catches before having to replace them. The Mayor is a good one. The Swammer is great. Z-Man DieZel Minnowz (also great bladed jig trailer). Gambler Little EZ and EZ. The Largo Shad and Yum Scottsboro Swimbaits (surprised these aren't talked about more) are both great. Just wish they came in more color options. Houdini used to be my favorite color for the Largo Shad but it looks like they stopped making it.

Yeah, but have you tried braid to fluoro leader to mono leader to braid leader back to fluoro leader? Game-changer! Catch 4x as many bass!

Definitely.

Yeah, don't let the H/XF rating fool you. This rod is a GREAT bladed jig rod and could definitely be used for jigs (tho I like a little faster/stiffer tip for my jigs, unless in open water). The thing is crazy light as well. Just a really fun rod to fish with.

Good one. Out of curiosity I checked to see if it works Even works on Megabass. It does. They even carry the P5 Destroyer now (5 models). Is that new? I know for the longest time the only Megabass rods they carried was the Levante. Looks like only $12 shipping (to WI), which isn't bad.

The 80 is the new, larger version. Perhaps you're thinking of the original Karashi, which is only 3/16 oz?

Daiwa Tatula SV TW 70. Not to be confused with the BF70. This a pretty small-framed reel. It casts light baits very well. But as was already said, a 1/2 oz bait should cast well on just about anything.

I made this my primary punching reel a few years back. Very happy with it.

Haha, good point. Got lost in translation. Anyways, I happen to have a new in package Picasso I just linked in chart/white 3/8 oz conveniently sitting on my desk right now if anyone would like to try one. Just PM me your address and I'll try to get it out to you ASAP. *edit- Spinnerbait spoken for

Have you tried the new Picasso Titanium? Very nice, but dang I don't remember paying that price when they came out. But they last. Has a swinging head on it. Also comes in other blades and without the swinging head. https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Picasso_Titanium_Pro_Double_Willow_Spinnerbait/descpage-PNTI.html

Thanks again for all the kind, uplifting words everybody. ❤️

Sound strange, but the 7'1 heavy Feather rod is a great bladed jig rod. Those M1 rods are great as well.

You certainly could spray/wipe the outside down with the 303 every once in a while if it brings you peace of mind. Once it dries it shouldn't really have a smell. And if you just did the outside it'd be no biggie.