LAO162

Because I don't have enough reels to designate different lines for different types of baits, I use copoly for everything

I called yesterday. Very friendly service. While they indicated that the guides and reel seat (on the spinning & casting rods) were Fuji, they could not be more specific about the components. Also, they had no specifics about the blanks.

Does anyone have experience with Albright Tackle? It appears the 5 year old company is shifting to an internet model. They specialize in fly fishing gear, but also had some travel casting & spinning rods that look like they might be fun to put in a suitcase. Thanks Leon

I usually grab my Exceler before my Stradic FH. It's not quite as smooth, but casts further and line management is as good if not better. Only concern is that bail trips prematurely slightly more often wit Exceler than Shimano. My Dad finds it more difficult to trip the bail by turning the crank, but that's not a problem for me since I flip it by hand. Cheers

Any meaningful difference in casting distance or control with lighter baits? Or, is it mostly ergonomics? Thanks

I've found that sometimes retailers don't distinguish between mono and copoly, lumping them in together. C:

The Daiwa Exceler is in the same price range at Cabelas. It might be worth a look.

The Daiwa Exceler (2500) offers great casting and line management for its price. Leon

Try checking with a guide or the local residents so that your selection is appropriate for the local environment. For instance, a 7'2" rod probably won't be your first choice if you expect to do a lot of skipping around docks or need to be accurately casting into tight spaces.

If you are leaning towards the Techna AV, check out the pricing at Amazon. Amazon is an authorized dealer and typically lists the Techna AV's for about a 20 to 25% discount of MSRP. Some of their sales are fantastic. Due a seach for the recent discussion. TW will pricematch Amazon. I can't comment on the Avid, but the first time I took my 7' MF (119 grams) rod worming, I got so excited about its performance that I ordered a 6'6" MHF (118 grams) rod for jigs. Initially I didn't appreciate the Techna AV because I was using only moving baits.

Although I read some "horror" stories about Amazon, my one experience with fishing gear was positive. Some etailers, such as ***, will price match if you are concerned. If I see another fantastic deal on Amazon, I will probably order from them again (assuming Amazon is the retailer). Amazon is an authorized Fenwick dealer.

I've found that my 7 ft rod limits my ability to position myself around structure when fishing from shore. Also, the shorter rods are easier to handle when casting off balance.

I have 2 Techna AV baitcasters & 1 Crucial spinning rod. For bottom bouncing techniques I find the Techna AV's to be significantly more sensitive. However, that is just my perception.

I've changed the spool several times in the last couple years, so I've been using less expensive mono. A couple possible opportunities for you: - Try at least 3/8 to 1/2 oz. 1/4 oz pretty light for a baitcaster, especially a newby (I speak from recent experience ) - Try tightening your brakes a bit more and don't use brute force. Be happy with 30 ft casts until you are casting consistently without backlashes. (I can still cast further with my spinning setup - but not as accurately) - Follow Reel Mech's steup instructions... I've found that my spool tension knob is very sensitive. Stay conservative. If you get too ambitious too fast...you already know the consequences Have Fun! Leon

I have questionned the same thing. However, I seldom hold the rod where the blank would be exposed. When my bait is in the water, my hand is usally on the reel handle. Leon

If you are on Cabela's email list, you will occassionally receive email specials that are even lower than the "rock bottom prices."

It depends upon the Grip While 2 inches from the pivot point could make a meaningful difference in the speed of the tip during a cast, other factors come into play. For instance, from the reel, my 6'6" and 6'3" rods are almost the same length (< 1" difference) and have nearly the same guide spacing. Most of the difference is in the length of the grip. Thus, depending upon design, the 2" difference could be more a matter of ergonomics than tip speed.

Besides looking for the best brand for the $$$, make sure you get the best configuration for your needs. In addition to overall length, power & action, also make sure the grip feels right. Personally, I think the 10.5" grip on my 7 foot rod feels a little awkward, but I can still cast well with 2 hands using the 6.5" grip on my 6'3" rod. Also, if you're comparing sensitivity of rods using the floor tapping method, make sure you are tapping on a mat or carpet as well as a hard floor. Tapping on a hard surface I (IMHO) found that the Crucial transmitted more vibrations than Fenwick Techna AV. However, when tapping on a soft surface, the Fenwick transmitted more sensation.

From the Bank (under the trees & inbetween the brush) 6'3" MXF Spinning 6'6" MF Spinning 6'6" MHF Casting

I prefer my Exceler to my Stradic FH. It's not as smooth, but consistently outcasts and its line management is as good, if not better. If I were to buy another Exceler TODAY, I would probably look at the Cabelas Prodigy which is still on sale for $79.

Wow, it sounds as though you already have sufficient equipment. With new reel models coming out (from Shimano), why not wait a bit for user reviews and think about what features are important to you. Even if you can afford "the best," make sure you get what is "best for you." Cheers!

A quick google on Texpose found this article: http://www.nodakoutdoors.com/texas-fishing-rig.php Pictures 4 & 5 show how to bury the hook back into the bait. Hope it helps

Looks as though Amazon delivered 3 out of 4 Fenwicks in good condition. While the box mine come in appeared adequate, it was not as solid as the Tubes I have typically received and there was no bubble wrap at the tips. This was a great deal, but like all deals that are too good to be true there is higher risk. In this case we need to consider the possibility of having to return the rod to Amazon until they make it right. I think I'll take that risk again

Very Cool! Congrats

Glad to hear you like it and that Amazon was reliable. Hope you enjoy yours as much as I enjoyed mine.