Hi all,

 

Relatively new to the site. Lots of great info! Just bought my first casting reel after 20+ years of spinfishing! A Daiwa Tatula type r. Want to pair it with a Dobyns based on positive reviews of that rod series on these threads. But not sure which model. Seems like medium heavy, fast action gets the nod for a versatile all around rod. But length is throwing me. I do 75% of my fishing from a canoe, and 7' rods feel a tad long and unwieldy to me. So I'm thinking about their 6' 6" model 

FR 663C   /  6'6"   /  $109.99

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DESCRIPTION: 6'6" 1pc. 10-17lb, 1/4-3/4oz, Med/Hvy Fast Action

TECHNIQUES: Flukes / Jigs / Senkos / Spinnerbaits / Texas Rigs

 I fish a lot of jig/paddletail (Keitech) combos up to 1/2 ounce, as well as spinnerbaits and jig/craw combos. (probably will leave the unweighted senkos to my spinning setups.) 

 

Mostly in open water or along weed edges: not gotten into pitching or flipping yet.

 

Thoughts on the Dobyns pick above? Any other rods I should consider? Fenwick Elite Tech smallmouth on sale at one clearance site for $75, medium heavy, 6" 9" I think...

 

Thanks! 

I have the FR663C and really like it for short accurate casts with small spinnerbaits around docks or overhanging brush.  It is also a pretty decent option for walking topwater baits.  With that said, if you will be throwing 1/2 oz jigs or spinnerbaits on a Dobyns I'd step up to at least a 4 power.

Dobyns fish 1 power lighter than advertised. You’ll be better off with a 4 power. The 704 would be a good choice for an all around rod. The extra length will help gain some distance on your casts and also pick up more line on the hookset. You’ll adapt to it pretty quickly. I use a 7’5 out of a kayak fairly often. 

The 704C is a much better fit for what you are describing.  A 663 will be under powered at 1/2 ounce baits.  The 664 for some reason just doesn't have the tip action and I would shy away from it and go to a seven footer.  

Another vote for 704c... Great all around rod

Savvy 664 for 100 dollars on the dobyns website