onthefritz

Update: I made a few changes. I put the Vanford 2500 on a new Expride B 7’ Light, and got a jdm Daiwa Certate 2500 for the Whipsnake. Let me tell you…. Both of these rods now feel INCREDIBLE. Wow. Each one balances almost exactly where my index finger sits with a 3/1 grip. It feels like these reels were made specifically for this matchup. Now, the Daiwa Certate? Holy crap, for $280 (Japanese imported) this reel is incredible. Whoever was saying previously that I should go with a Certate, you were right. It’s buttery smooth, and it’s still light enough that it’s not annoying but has enough weight that it just feels high-quality (and balances great on the Whipsnake). Not to mention it just looks amazing. Figured I’d update this post in case anyone is considering similar purchases.

Update: the Whipsnake is great. Really good sensitivity, I was using 6lb FC Sniper as a leader to 10lb Fireline braid. I like the action, it feels good to use. 10/10 would buy again. The Vanford.. I like it. But I’m not in love with it. I don’t take issue with the quality, but for this particular combo the Vanford feels just a hair too light. This rod with the Vanford 2500 balances just a bit on the “tip-heavy” side. After a whole day of fishing, I could tell they where the reel seat sits between my fingers was starting to feel mildly uncomfortable because of this (3 above, 1 below). Otherwise, the reel is smooth, the drag is smooth, and it performed well. I give it an 8/10.

For anyone else stumbling upon this thread, I think I’m going to take advantage of TW’s 15% off for Labor Day and pick up a Vanford 2500 and Orochi XX Whipsnake. It will save me a little money this time around while still getting a rod & reel which kicks ass. I’ll hop back in here to provide my thoughts after I’ve put some hours in with them!

Couldn’t find that rod in stock, but what about its counterpart, the 2610UL/M? Looks like a killer

LMB in California. I do fish tournaments monthly. I’d consider myself well-familiarized but far from an expert when it comes to drop-shot. I’ve been absorbing all the knowledge I can as a co-angler for the past year. $$$ not an issue, but I don’t feel like I need to spring for the newest and shiniest thing. I’m wanting something more sensitive and refined than what I’m currently throwing: Daiwa BG 3000 on a Dobyns Fury 703SF.

I’ve seen a lot of people rave about the Steez AGS rods. But normally it’s the 7’6”MML they’re talking about. I’d be lying if I said I haven’t considered it, but is it worth $550?

This makes perfect sense, thanks

Good to know! That definitely makes the LTB more attractive. What reel do you have on yours, and do you feel that it pairs well with it?

I like the idea of a 1000 size reel because obviously not casting very far for finesse, but the significantly lighter drag makes me nervous. Is that ever an issue, or is it still plenty?

Looking to get into my first “high-end” spinning combo, a dedicated finesse/dropshot rod. I keep thinking I’ve narrowed it down but then as soon as I do, I find something else that appealing. Here’s the three combos I’ve considered so far: St Croix’s new LTB, 6’10” ML XFast ($290 @ TW); paired with a Sustain FJ 2500HG ($309 @ TW). Megabass Orochi XX Whipsnake 6’11” ($349 @ TW); paired with a JDM ‘21 Exsence 3000MHG ($357 @ Digitaka). Megabass Destroyer P5 (JDM) Landsat 6’11” ($475 @ TW); paired with a JDM ‘19 Vanquish C3000 ($350 @ Digitaka). …AND, if it seems these options are severely misguided then I am definitely open to suggestions! I’m a bit partial to Shimano reels, but it’s not a dealbreaker if you think something else does the job better for cheaper.