Travis Lofton

Picture doesn't do justice. She was thicker than a snicker. 6# test. Shallow pond. Had to walk the bank to wear her out

Relatively new to being a serious angler so I'm sure I'm in for worse, but here's a tough one to swallow. My grandpa who is a long time bass fishing vet, Indiana Bass federation hall of famer, took me to Skegmog in Michigan for a 2 day trip to prefish for his clubs classic up there the next week. He's caught giants up there many many times. I caught my pb smallmouth (4.5) but only caught 1 other one the day before and he only caught 1 greeny. 16+ hours of fishing. 3 fish. 9 hour drive and hundreds of dollars spent on the trip. The next week it took 30+ lbs to win their classic. Go figure.

I had read on a *** thread that they would consider it a moderate but after using it I disagree. It'll definitely be softer than what you're used to though. I used to use an XF Lew's custom speed stick drop shot rod so I was concerned too, but I think you'll enjoy it. ***. Apparently can't put ***. without punctuation lol ?‍♀️ the forum that rhymes with Cass tote ventral. Lord forbid if it's mentioned here or they censor it

Update: tried the rod for the first time yesterday. Incredible. By far the most sensitive rod I've ever used. I own an E6X (it's ok) a Curado (also just ok) and a BPS Platinum (eh) in spinning for comparison. Blows them out of the water. It does have a lot of tip to it (again, 6'10 ML fast) but I wouldn't call it a moderate like I've seen some claim. Can't wait to get another. Probably getting the 7'2 MH MF casting for jigs. Highly recommend the Expride like many others would.

Right on. I chose the 2000 for the weight. Spooling it with 10# braid 6# leader or straight 6# fluorocarbon. Fishing in open water. If it can handle 6lb smallies I'm good to go.

I did. 90% of the discussion is over the name or arguing. 100% of that when I posted. Looking for productive content.

Hey everyone. Just ordered a Shimano Vanford VF2000HG to pair with my new 6'10 ML Expride. Anyone else preorder? Anyone think it's overhyped? Will it outclass the Daiwa Ballistic? Let's hear your thoughts!

I have a 7'1 ML fast BPS Johnny Morris Platinum rod paired with the spinning reel. Got the combo on sale last Black Friday. The reel looks like a Daiwa and have read they make them. I've searched numerous times, but can't seem to find a solid answer on who manufactures their rods. Anyone got the scoop?

Hey guys. So, I've read a lot about the Expride models, and finally ordered one. As you know, they're tough to find in stock, but managed to get a 6'10 ML on tacklewarehouse. I planned on using this rod for light dropshotting and ned rigs, but have came across info suggesting this model is pretty much dropshot specific. It's listed as a fast action rod but heard it's more of a moderate. I've heard guys say they've used the 7' Light+ . Curious if anyone has opinions on using the 6'10 ML with 1/20 - 1/10 oz neds? Thanks! P.S. First post here. Thankful for everyone's input and the info shared on this site. Also figured I should mention I'll be pairing it with a Stratic FL 2500 with 10 lb braid to 6-8 lb fluoro Also figured I should mention I'll be pairing it with a Stradic FL 2500 with 10 lb braid to 6-8 lb fluoro