Stephen B

I am simply referring to the fact the weigh is more inline with balancing a finesse spinning rod such as a NRX 852S, MB Addermine, etc. The 3000 size Luvias weighs 9.0 oz whereas a Stella 3000 weighs 7.4 oz. I find 6-7 oz reels balance better with popular finesse rods such as the NRX, GLX, etc. IMO the Luvias is a touch too heavy that is just my personal preference.

Given the weight of the Luvius, I would much prefer the Tatula LT, Ballistic LT, and the Stradic CI4 for freshwater finesse applications. However, I do recommend trying a couple of reels on it to determine which size/weight reel you prefer for balance and overall feel.

The Dobyns Fury and Shimano Exage are among the best rods around your price range.

I highly recommend spending more on the rod. IMO it's an easy decision for me.

I definitely wouldn't spend your money on parts as the specific parts ordered may not be your problem. An experience reel tech will be able to diagnose the issues the reel is having by troubleshooting basic operations, then finding the source of the problem and replacing worn/broken parts. Unfortunately, most reel service guys especially the good ones are very busy this time of the year. If you can't find anyone I would look at contacting Daiwa and see what they say regarding repairing.

I think it comes down to what application(s) you will be looking to do. For my experience, the Casitas 150 is much more refined; however, the Revo X is no slouch either but just not to the refinement of the Casitas. However, I always highly recommend the Revo X Winch for cranking.

Do you have any specs you are looking for? What length of rod do you prefer for flipping/pitching? What size jigs do you plan to throw? Also, what price range? Thanks.

What flouro specifically are you looking at? Most 20 lb flourocarbon lines range from .014-.016 mm. That would equate to you getting around 60-70 yards of line on the reel depending on the line diameter of flouro you choose. If it is only for pitching I don't think it would be a problem, but yes the spool is shallow. Consider braid as a possibility for backing to increase line capacity.

No problem!

I would try and find someone local as you will save on shipping cost and time stuck in shipment. Overall the turn around time will be significantly decreased. Both Fisherman’s Warehouse and Sav-on Tackle are authorized daiwa reel repair in California. I will link there information below. Whomever has the faster turn around time is what I recommend. Fisherman's Warehouse 9035 Folsom Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95826 (916)362-1200 Sav-on Tackle 9917 Orr and Day Rd Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 (562)864-2911 I would let these guys worry about which parts to source if needed to ensure they are the specific to your model.

No problem. Yea Phenix seems to run a touch lighter than most in the industry. I would likely go with the 7" St Croix UL or see what some of the staff at Phenix says regarding if any of their offerings would be capable of throwing lures around 1/16 oz effectively.

The rods that come to mind are the: Dobyns Champion Extreme DX 741SF (1/16-3/8 oz), St Croix Avid AVS70ULF (1/32-3/16 oz), St Croix Premier PS70ULF2 (1/32-3/16 oz), Phenix Bass Recon Elite 6-9 or 7'2 Light (1/16-3/8 oz) St Croix also makes the rod in a 6'6 but the additional length will aid in casting distance which is necessary at the weight lures you are looking to throw.

What budget did you have in mind? Awesome I see it now. Dobyns, St Croix, and Phenix makes the best rods for what you are looking. I think the Dobyns 741 may be a bit too powerful but the St Croix UL or Phenix L should be perfect.

I would consider a Dobyns Champion Extreme, St Croix Legend X or Elite, or Megabass Destroyer. The specific model you choose depends on if you will flipping more around 1/2 oz jigs or 1 oz jigs.

You say you are comfortable with the GLX. But I have a couple questions. What is your budget? Also, do you have any length constraints/preferences?

The XX Jig & Worm is discontinued and the new XX dropped the Jig & Worm rod so it is only available in the prior generation. A few may still be floating around. For $200 it may be worth trying. I don't have any experience with the exact model, but I do have experience with the XX Spinnerbait Special and Jerkbait Special. I thought the rods looked great, the sensitivity was good, balance was good, the QC was exceptional. The only negatives were the cork had a bunch of filler and I was not fond of the hook keeper. I would recommend waiting to hear others reviews when the new XXs comes out. I think it will be a great improvement. Megabass is completely revamping the entire lineup and is rumored to be utilizing a new graphite in the new XX being released in May. A bunch of new models are being introduced that may be a good fit.

I would definitely check out some of the Classic Closeouts as you can get a good rod for a great closeout price.

Most rods designed for those applications are typically much longer than 7'2. It may be tough to find a rod that would work for what you are doing. What size weight are you planning to be punching?

The Shimano NASCI and Daiwa Fuego LT are unmatched. They are very good reels that perform well above there price point.

Awesome. Supporting a great family owed business is always a plus.

That is awesome. Gary Dobyns is a great guy! Curious to what rods you are referring to when you say you like it better than some rods that are double the price.

I have had a few experiences with U40 that I will detail for those considering using U40. From my experience with the Megabass Destroyer USA and NRX models it shows all the imperfections in the cork, however, it does protect the cork from mud, dirt, debris from getting into the cork. Ultimately, I think that U40 is a great product that does the job it was designed to do. Has anyone else had the same experience? I bought a NRX 853C and the cork looked flawless however after applying U40 the cork didn't look as good. I however would still recommend it!

100% legit.

No problem. Don't forget that you also do a custom Kistler on there website. There are a bunch of great rods especially at the 200-300 range from a bunch of manufacturers. I am sure others can provide more input regarding models selections for ALX rods and Kistler since many members use a lot of there rods. There are a lot of great rod manufacturers to select from. Good luck on your search!

The Kistler KLX and Heliums are very impressive. Kistler is also running a sale on them. If you wanted a Megabass rod, I would wait for a Orochii XX but those could be awhile before coming out. I can't comment on performance as I haven't fished one. However, I know the Kistler rods don't disappoint. I have also hear great things from ALX rods. They seem to be great rods. The owner seems to be very knowledgeable and builds great rods. I think he can even build a custom to your exact specs.