Stephen B

I don't doubt your strike detection as I have no reason to. But I'm not convinced your strike detection using rods from the 70s as you stated would compete with someone (even yourself) using a NRX with flouro or braid. That's all I'm saying. The equipment (rods,reels, line, etc) is amazing nowadays.

Hard to beat the Orochi XX in that price range. Megabass Orochi XX rods rival rods in terms of craftsmanship and sensitivity that cost much more than them.

Your method is where the problem is underlying. For example, often bass just pick up the bait for a brief second (95% of the time undetected when they just briefly pick it up whether your holding the line or not) thus not only will you likely not feel it and also you won't see the line jump. Another issue is a lot of people don't have large enough hands to palm the reel and put there finger on the line. Also, braided line and floruocarbon have evolved a long way since the 70s along with the rods, so I'm sure equipment is much easier to detect strikes.

I agree that if you have the means, definitely go for it. Different things make different people happy. However in my eyes I would just buy another Steez or Metanium MGL for the upgrading cost to the reel. Your reel looks slick though. ?

I agree, however, the majority of aftermarket products for the reels are not worth the cost. I recommend just buying a quality reel and and clean it regularly. Then send it to reel techs such as DVT for maintenance when the reel needs repairs or in depth cleaning to keep it working at peak performance.

For me I don't see the purpose of buying a Curado, Chronarch, Metanium, etc and spending more money for upgraded bearings or parts for cosmetics. I'd rather sat the money aside for a new reel,rod, lures, etc. I had a Curado 70 and put Hedgehog bearings in it and immediately took them out as I didn't think they provided the performance I assumed they would. I much prefer the stock bearings. However, I do buy additional spare spools from the manufacturers (not aftermarket spools).

Definitely think your son will be extremely happy!

This is one thing that is often overlooked is the fact that why does a frog rod have to be only a frog rod? There are many rods that could be utilized for more than just one application. For example, the Megabass USA Valdivia was designed as a frog rod, but also makes a great carolina rig rod (where sensitivity is important). I highly recommend buying the best you can afford even for a frog rod, however look for a rod that could also be versatile enough for other techniques. Just my take on it. But I definitely know many do the same.

I definitely agree with Junger. My one question would be that if the line is in contact with the tip top with the guide insert wouldn't a harder material such as a Torzite isnert trasmit more sensitivity as it would be a harder material than SIC or Alconite?

Thanks! That make sense.

If that is true, then how does sensitivity actually travel to the blank? It can't be 100% through the line as a NRX is noticeable more sensitivity than an E6X with the same reel, line, etc. It would somehow have to be a combination of through the line, and from the guide to the blank itself. But I am unsure as this is just a theory. I'm all ears.

Definitely should be a solid performer. With Diawa and Shimano you can rarely if never go wrong.

Haha!

Touching. Must have been a great guy. I'm glad he had a great friend like you for support and having a blast with.

As you mentioned, diesel engines vs gas engines definitely have their own unique advantages and disadvantages associated with them. Ultimately, the initial cost of diesel will be MUCH higher and cost of maintenance with the diesel with be much higher (I hate having to buy DEF and paying for oil changes on my RAM), and diesels definitely don't like sub freezing temperatures. But that comes with many benefits such as improved torque, improved towing, increases in fuel efficiency, and typically have better longevity. While the gas engine Class C RV will be able to effectively tow a boat, there fuel efficiency is impacted more when towing than a diesel engine. If I had the choice and funds and I plan to tow the majority of the time, I would definitely go with the diesel.

Marcus Lemonis is a genius, but I honestly don't think the large scale brick-and-mortar model works for the most part. The only true exception that I am aware of is Bass Pro/Cabelas which has expanded to acquiring a bunch of other companies. They have acquired so many boat manufacturers that they own the majority of the boat market. With the price of real estate being ridiculous, increasing wages, and the cost of running a physical store (utilities, insurance, rent, etc) more and more businesses will continue to close locations.

I'm pretty sure the Edge Black Widow, which is there current highest rod offering, utilizes the same blank materials that the prior Kistler Zbone had. Thus, the sensitivity should be relatively similar. Regarding the blank, the MBR style taper is extremely versatile. However, for the price the sensitivity was ok for the NFC HM blank. I would rate it just under the GLX from my experience. However, I did try the Zbone 3MH and 4MH, which doesn't have the carbon fiber handle which Gary Loomis claims to enhance sensitivity in his Edge Black Widow rods. However, North Fork Composites has a new blank that was introduced recently. So, I would assume the Edge rods would be updated with the new blanks soon.

I assume you are throwing 3/8-1/2 spinnerbaits. Is that right? I think the Diablo Spec R is a great rod for your application. Possibly check into a Megabass Levante Diablo Spec R, Curado 7'2 MH, or Zodias 7'2 MH. All are great sub $200 rods. However, St Croix and Dobyns also have great rods. I recommend going to a tackle shop and finding what you like as another persons recommendation may not be what you may like.

The LTB has been revamped for 2018. The balance has improved.

It's a little over your budget but the 7'6 H Hammer Swimbait rod (rated from 1 to 3 oz) would be the closest rod to what you are looking for that I can think of. But ultimately a rod that can effectively handle heavier crank baits, swimbaits, and punching is a difficult task especially for one rod. However, I am sure others can give other options as well that you could consider.

A rod that can effectively handle heavier crank baits, swimbaits, and punching is a difficult task especially for one rod. A little more detail regarding how big of swimbaits and crankbaits you plan to throw would help and price range as well. I have rod in mind that may work for what I currently think you are looking for. Thanks!

Absolutely not true. This was all incorrect information regarding warranty about a company without every going through the process and then saying someone said. Definitely not the case at all. I have seen new rods replaced within 1-2 weeks free through the Megabass USA warranty. Great people. Kschultz76 is absolutely correct. Megabass has a good customer service and build great quality rods. All are warrantied in the US through Megabass USA.

I haven't fished the H3 but you will get a lot of differing opinions on this. But ultimately, I am not a fan of Kistler rods so personally I would look elsewhere. I sold all my Zbones for new rods within a year of owning them. There sensitivity was subpar for the rods I fished when compared to my current rod from G Loomis, Megabass, JDM Evergreen, etc at similar price points. I was disappointed in the sensitivity of the 2015 Zbones for a retail price of $500. The only advantage going the Kistler route is he runs a discount a lot. I recommend going to a real tackle shop and talking with their staff about what you are looking for, plan to use, and they should be able to give you some great options. They likely have fished every rod in the store and talk to other fisherman. I am curious to how the new 2018 Zbone fishes though. Ultimately, of the rods you named none are bad rods so you can't pick a wrong one. Just make a list of positives and negatives and decide based on what works best for you.

I wouldn't recommend them unless they were refurbished from the manufacturer.

The 2000 sized Daiwa Exist LT weighs 5.5 oz but retails at $800. The Daiwa Tatula LT, Ballistic LT, and Shimano Stradic CI4 are all fabulous choices as well.