So after tons of research and holding various rods in my local shop, I decided to upgrade my casting rig. UPS just arrived today and I figured I would share my initial experience.

 

I went with :

- G.Loomis NRX 803C

- Diawa Steez CT SV 700XH

 

I ended up getting both on sale and saved a good bit ?

 

Im sure tons of folks here have a copious amount of experience using these products, but they are new to me and I'm pretty jazzed about it. I have it spooled up with 30# Power Pro braid with a 15# FC leader with the intent to fish small jigs, smaller Texas rigs and other various soft plastics. 

 

Initial Impression: (having very little to compare it to ... so take it for what it is xD)

- Rod is light as a feather and fit and finish are well done. Came with a sticker on the cork handle I took off that left some sticky residue behind. I used 400 grit sandpaper to get rid of it and it is like it was never there now. 

- Reel feels smooth and everything that adjusts or clicks is very positive and sure sounding

- I have never used a reel like this, and just from clicking my release and letting my 1/16th oz weight with a 2/0 hook on the end of the line spool out and hit my carpet, it almost caused a backlash ... makes me scared to cast it a bit. I adjusted the breaks to the higher side for when I actually get out to cast it.

- I have the braid married to the leader via an Albright knot and am hoping it will not cause a hang-up as it passes through the eyelets upon casting. 

 

I'll update this after I get out to use it and have actual time behind the rod.

 

Happy fishing everyone

Nice, that’s pretty exciting. 

Now that is what I call an upgrade.      Very nice.  Enjoy.

Congrats. You cant do much better than that. Now hopefully you can ditch the spinning gear. Definitely keep us posted.

Sweet combo.

Next, you'll be wanting another one.

Then another. Then another.?

Its starts with one and some initial frustration. Next thing ya know you will be ordering your 3rd rod rack..............

2 hours ago, onenutinthewater said:

Its starts with one and some initial frustration. Next thing ya know you will be ordering your 3rd rod rack..............

If I could only afford a rod rack.    All my money goes into rods. 

54 minutes ago, new2BC4bass said:

If I could only afford a rod rack.    All my money goes into rods. 

After you have "acquired" maybe a dozen rods the need to throw away $70 for a good rod rack becomes easier.........