I just had a deal on a Team KVD combo so I got it. 6'10" Heavy/Fast baitcast.

I read many guys frogging with longer rods than that (7'4 to close to 8') but I'm just shy of 5'8" and I fish from a kayak, most of the time sitting but sometimes standing. Will that do the trick ?

 

Also, I ditched the reel (a Quantum Solo baitcasting) for a KastKing Royale Legend Elite in 8.1:1 ratio as I like to pick line fast when needed. I hesitated for a while with the ratio between 7.3 and 8.1 but I finally get the 8.1 as I already have another 7.2:1 reel if I really don't like it.

 

Any members bought the Royale Legend Elite ? Its a fairly new model from KastKing. Also, what's the handle lenght and hole size as I will likely replace it with a carbon aftermarket on, mainly for look purpose  The new handle should be a tiny tad lighter as well.

 

This is my first KastKing, I use to be a Shimano guy but I decided to cross the line. I hope it will compare with similarly priced Shimano reel (I have a Citica 200E that I upgraded with a Curado spool and swapped a bushing for a bearing) or even better, outperform them, any toughts about that ?

 

Thanks,

Tom

Don't have any experience with your specific gear, but personally I think the rod length would work great, especially from a kayak.  I find it difficult to work a top water lure if a rod is too long.  I fish from a Sun Dolphin, so even while standing, I'm pretty close to the water.  

 

I also like a fast reel for top water.  I think a 7 or 8 speed would both work great, and for the small bit of difference, I wouldn't find myself regretting going with one instead of the other.

I think you'll be fine, I also like a high ratio reel for frogging. 

I'm 5-09 and fish from a kayak also, my rod is 7-03 and I use it with no problem.

Congrats! I have this gut feeling it’s going to serve you well. 

 

@BaitFinesse: what’s the deal with aluminum in that what makes it less than ideal compared to say brass in your opinion? Just a straight up question with no bias.  You have however piqued my curiosity. ?

4 hours ago, BaitFinesse said:

 Durability of aluminum gears are not as great as brass.  It is not uncommon for aluminum gears to become very geary feeling after some hard use.  Reports of stripped gear sets are also common.  

Thanks. I appreciate that. Good info to know when choosing a reel.