RW, I keep eye balling that G-Loomis BronzeBack spinning rod in SMR8825-SP 7'4" M 8-12 1/8-3/8. Ever had one in your hands?, and if so, what do you think? I don't feel like riding to Baltimore BP. Just asking. Thanks.

Yep, my fishing partner bought several Bronzebacks when they were first intoduced. You already know how I feel about G.Loomis, so I am hesitant to bad mouth them...But...I think this series is a scam. The rods are (generally) too light for soft plastics, have a soft tip and not much sensitivity or backbone.

WOW! I didn't say that, did I?

I have fished them quite a bit and consider them on par with "pan fish" rods. My partner uses them for "guide rods" but has moved up to a PR844S as his main rod. There is NO comparison. I would HIGHLY recommend the SJR series over the Bronzeback. Specifically, SJR783S or 843S. My PR844S is NOT for you, the tip is too soft. It is THE ROD for live bait and poppers.

Thanks RW, thats what I needed to know. It always scares me when a company makes a attempt at a single species special rod. I prefer a much tighter smallie rod than that. I really like a M in the 8-17lb class. I like a lot of backbone and about the first 8 inches a little stiff, but sensitive. I really prefer a X Fast rod. I was just wondering. I liked the idea of the 7'4" for out in the main river channel. One of these days I will find the perfect rod for me. The closest I ever came was a Pinnacle Tri Wing Ti3. I know it was a cheap rod but the action was to my liking to the T. Only problem was, it only came in 6'. I prefer a 6-6 and would really like a 6-6 and a 7 to this spec. 8-15lb line---1/8-1/2 lure wt in a Extra Fast. Oh well, I would really like to sleep with Anna Kournakova and Maria Sharapova at the same time too but, thats not going to happen either.

Hey!

Did you see the Senko Rod thread? The BCR893 sounds pretty interesting if you are interested in a baitcaster.

RW is right, that senko rod is a dream and it is not limited to throwing senkos either.  I use it for just that but I'm confident I could use it for other soft plastics if I needed to.

You should check it out.

I have to agree with RW on the bronzebacks too.

B