Randy Price

@casts_by_fly, so is it size or weight that determines what reel should go on a light rod?

I just bought the new SC Avid Panfish 70LXF rod and need advise as to what reel to pair it with. I already have a Shimano Nexave 1000 (cheap reel I know but I do like it) or I have an older Shimano Stradic 2500 Ci4+ that I could put on it. The Ci4+ is actually lighter than the Nexave even though it's a 2500. I know most guys recommend the 1000 size for a pan fish rod but I didn't know if that was based on size or weight? Thoughts/opinions???

This summer I've primarily been a bank fisherman targeting panfish. The lake I fish in has a decent crappie population and they are good to eat. I didn't want to spend a lot of money for a slip bobber/panfish rig so based on the recommendations of others I bought a SC Triumph 66LF rod and a Shimano Nexave 1000 FL spinning reel and lined it with 4 lb. Stren XL. I have caught quite a few nice crappies and blue gills with it and have been very pleased. I'm glad I went with the L power vs. UL because occasionally I've caught a LM bass and liked the little stiffer power. I liked the way the Triumph loaded up when catching a larger fish and it had the backbone for a few larger bass. I was really impressed on how smooth the Nexave was for a $ 50.00 reel. If I were blindfolded IDK if I could tell the difference btwn it and one of my Stradics. So if you're looking for a relatively inexpensive slip bobber rod the Triumph and Nexave are a good choice.

Thanks guys for the replies. I am hoping to try one out prior to purchasing. I have a few SC Legend Elite's and I do not know how much better it can get but I've always heard that the NRX+ is the pinnacle in rods so I want to see if I'm missing out.

I'm looking to purchase my first NRX spinning rod and want something that's very versatile. TIA....Randy

It will never happen because my wife wouldn't be happy there but I "think" I would love living in the northwoods of WI. I used to hunt and fish there a lot 15 years ago. I say "think" because the fantasy vs the reality is probably a lot different.

I broke a Mojo Bass rod a couple of years ago and SC just has me send the picture of the break along with the serial and model number. I chose to upgrade to an Avid X (now discontinued). I complained about the $ 50.00 shipping but the CS person did lower the upgrade price so I felt like I got a little bit of a deal. Normally I visit the factory once a year on my way up to Cable, WI to musky fish and take care of any warranty issues in person. My experience with SC CS has been excellent!

I used to love reading Patrick McManus in F&S.

I remember when SC used to sell C-Stock rods occasionally you could find a real nice Legend model with only 1-2" missing from the top. The employees there told me an inch or two doesn't hurt the action too bad but any more than 2" and it's really no good.

No leader. Straight braid or straight mono depending on what I'm fishing for.

Thanks to all that replied. I would up choosing a SC Triumph LF 6' rod. Once I get a chance to test it I'll let you know if I like it. Randy

Yep. Sadly a little too much.

I tend to be brand loyal. I've never had any issues with Shimano and Daiwa Reels and SC rods. My favorite spinning combo is my SC LE rod with a Stradic (Ci4+) and my favorite BC (not musky) combo is my SC Avid with a Metanium attached. For musky a SC LT rod and a Tranx 400.

Great review! I wish more guys took the time to post such helpful information. I bought my first BPS rod earlier this year. I was looking for an inexpensive spinning rod for friends and family to use. I bought the Pro Qualifier 2 68MLF and have been very happy with it. Best Wishes, Randy

Thanks guys for all the replies. Now I just have to see what's available locally. A few shops are really low on rods at the moment.

@Eric 26, which do you prefer the ultralight or light powered?

Like the title says I'm looking for an affordable ultralight spinning rod for bluegill/crappie fishing. TIA. Randy

@J._Brickera SC Avid 66 MHF. Thanks for the information. I feel a little better about my purchase!

Thanks @T2DM for the info. Sounds like I didn't get the killer deal I thought I did. I believe the one I purchased was a JDM.

I have a chance to buy a NIB Shimano 20 Metanium XG for $ 200.00. I tried to do a little research online and if I understood correctly the 20 is the Japanese version of the model. Is that correct? What are the other differences? I would think being made in Japan would be a good thing?

2021 Subaru Forester Sport. I've never owned a Subie before but I needed a new car for work back in September of '21 and couldn't find a new Rav4 like I wanted. Been pleased so far with the Forester. Getting 30 MPG with it.

I primarily use spinning reels and my "favorite" was the Shimano Stradic 2000 with the wooden knob for the reel handle. For a BC probably my Chronarch 200e7.

@N Florida Mike, You took the words right out of my mouth! I do 100% of the initiating and the old "friends" seem glad to hear from me but never reach out to me!!!

Does anyone else have a hard time telling real friends from just work associates? I have worked (in some cases for years) with a number of guys that enjoyed hunting and fishing as much as me. We used to participate in tournaments and even create our own little fishing tournaments and take trips to N. WI. But as time has passed all the guys have left the company and no longer want to do anything as a group any more. I have tried to maintain what I thought were friendships but sadly I'm starting to accept that I thought more of them than they did me. Anyone else have similar experiences?

The "Kermitizer"