Thanks for the informative video. Below is a list of my go-to BFS Trout rods. Rayz Jerkin’ (BFS) RZ542BL 5’4” Light Power Line 1-6 pd. Lure 1-8 g Tenryu Rayz Spectra (BFS) RZ51LL (UL) 5’1” Light -Light Line 1-5 lb. Lure 1-8 g Resilure S-Glass (BFS) 5’ 3 Piece. UL. Lure 1-5 g Kuying Teton 522SUL (BFS) 5’2” Line 1-3 lb. Lure 0.8 - 3 g
@@HobieWanKenobi there really are a bunch of great trout rods on the market. Right now I am partial to Handling rods .. but I know I’ll be looking at so many others in the future .
Custom fiberglass rod from Resilure. Tenyru rayz spectra. Daiwa silver creek glass progressive. And Jackson rhapsody telescopic really enjoy this one for jigs
I currently have two rods both are 7' Old18 Bouyancy models, one in Ultralight W/Aldebaran and the other light action that will get the Metanium shallow edition. The UL seems to be a great all-around for both panfish and bass, while the light will be used with slightly heavier lures for mainly bass.
Dobyns and Phenix. Small guides and issues with Albright Knot. Curado BFS and Calcutta D. No joy thus far. Varivas 0.8 and 6 lb fluorocarbon on the Calcutta. Best channel thanks
I love those rods. I havent had issues with a uni to uni knot through those guides. The Curado BFS I feel is more of a "bass" reel. It doesnt like super light lures.
@@HobieWanKenobi Thank You. I have switched to fluorocarbon. There has been a learning curve however setting up my reels correctly, made all the difference. Thank you and appreciate your channel.
The rod I use the most is major craft benkei 6'5" ul/bf with a conquest bfshg . 6# braid with 4-6# fc leader . I use 1/6 --- 3/16 oz most 1/8 oz. Manly jig head and small plastic . I get white perch , see trout , rock fish and a few snakehead .
Hello! I’ve been wanting to get into trout bfs fishing for a while. The only thing I’ve been hung up on is rod choice. I would mostly throw small jigs and minnows. So I’m thinking I’d want a little bit faster action than glass. I usually fish smaller rivers with brook trout and often brown and rainbow trout as well, so sizes probably vary from 5-18in, but mostly on the smaller end. I do occasionally go to open lakes to fish for trout and panfish as well. I would also like a somewhat packable rod, but a two piece would be fine. I think I’d probably like to stay around that 150 dollar range but I wouldn’t mind going higher.
Oh forgot to add I also have a Kuying freestyle walker 4pc UL which is a great little rod that I will be taking abroad soon for some Saltwater BFS fun.
Rainshadow makes some pretty nice blanks. I built a few on an NFC 46UL IM blank. Even for a slow taper rod, it was still kinda fast for my liking. It's good for medium streams.
RainShadow spg601 (4'8 built rod) prefect blank for 1 piece. Now, I need to figure out how to make the same action shorty 3 piece. Casting graphite feels similar to swinging a sword because of a spine, where glass noodle is like finessing a magic wand. Go mage and never look back!😂
I make sure to diversify my skill tree and build up melee and magic attacks. Equipping non-class specific amulets also said in casting, regardless of rod type.
@@HobieWanKenobi Multiclassing eh, I suppose if you could finesse a sword it would come in handy. My wrist casts tend to do circular motion similar to tennis wine up and even side casts that's what i cant get over on a spiny ones
@@lymphy12 I come from a tennis background too. The carbon rods respond quicker so, they tend to "shoot" a lure a little more than fiberglass. This isn't a bad thing, just something to keep in mind
I had the first gen Tarantula rod. Good for the money but no way I'd use that long of a handle for BFS stream fishing. It was ok for lakes. I caught my PB bluegill with that rod...the memories
I’ve got two setups right now. SLX bfs xg with roro spool on a major craft finetail 5’8 1-5grams and a 2022 Aldebaran bfs xg on a Dobyns ultralight finesse 6’5 (kkr spool arrives this weekend). Anything I’ve done bfs wise I’ve gone to ur videos for reference, so thank you!
How do you like the SLX BFS with the Roro spool? I see you have it on the lighter rod and am curious how to like it compared to the stock Aldebaran BFS
@@HobieWanKenobi I’ll have to put in more time on the Aldebaran as I just got a couple days ago. I will say that the one time I did use it I could see myself wanting to use it anytime I go out. But for slx with roro spool I think it’s definitely a great buy, something about being able to throw 1g lures gets me excited lol. I do have another rod coming that I plan to take out with the Aldebaran with kkr spool for trout, rod is 5’10 0-.3-3grams. The Dobyns rod I plan to use it with the stock Aldebaran for bass.
I've got my bases covered for trout/panfish rods in my area being the Yamaga Blanks Blue Current II 71B, Fenwick Aces 60CLJ and a BPS 6' Light Crappie Maxx (pretty good value, but might be discontinued), but I'm looking for my first bass oriented BFS rod. Want to throw 2.8 kietechs on 1/8 to 3/16 weighted swimbait hooks (like owner twist locks) skipping around cover as I'm more accurate doing so with a baitcaster and some finesse jigs. Only issue is I prefer to be at that 7' mark in length to skip, I just can't or really have to focus if I try to skip with a shorter rod. I've thought about the Fenwick Aces 70CLJ+, but the rarity and cost with shipping, I'd prefer something easier to get. Just want a 7 foot 1/16-3/8 or 1/8-3/8 fast ML. Suggestions?
Check out the Cashion Icon BFS 610ML. I too prefer 7ft and up but, being the handle is a little shorter than regular bass rods, it fishes like a 7ft rod. It's great for skipping and has a good balance of finesse and power.
Hi, great video with lots of useful information. My question : for casting 1g lure (like Illex woodlouse), would you recommend fiber glass rod or solid carbon tip rod?
My bfs setup is Abu Garia Hornet Stringer Plus paired up with Daiwa SV light (modified bearings and spool). I caught a lot of Peacock bass even big ones but never manage to land big one as they are smart to go into the rocks to break the line. Other fish like Snakehead and smaller fish in Saltwater too at Singapore. I am getting another rod from Dankung, a fiberglass rod. I wonder do you have more details about that rod?
Singapore seems like a dream place to fish. That fiberglass rod from DanKung isnt a bad rod. After using both rods, I prefer the Palms Egeria XXUL to that rod. I have a video reviewing that DanKung rod.
@@HobieWanKenobi Thanks for letting us know. I was close to purchase the DanKung Glassfin but now i put a Egeria Native Performance ETVC-42XUL in my shoppingbasket instead :)
Can you review the kuying Teton 552 SUL casting rod. I been catching bass and crappie with this rod. Biggest bass was 5lbs. Would love to see you review this rod. I been using crappie maxx 6lb mono hi-vis Camo.
Have you fish the Tenryu Rz51LL-BC before? Deciding between the Tenryu and the Daiwa 51LB-G glass progressive. The lures that I use are at least 4.5g and above. Fish target are at least 8” and above.
I have fished that model Tenryu. I liked the versatility of that rod. It's better than the Glass Progressive for smaller fish (8" and below). If only using 4.5gr and above minnow style lures, I would go Glass Progressive. Digitaka gets them in stock pretty frequently. Discount Code 97J started not too long ago there too
@@HobieWanKenobi unfortunately it has been quite a long time since I have done any as I live on Maryland eastern shore now . I hope to get back up to Vermont this year for some and explore some closer to me across the bay .
This was a very informative video. It never occurred to me to use the descriptiom of the rod over the rating as a clue to the performance of the rod. I only have one true BFS "trout panfish" rod and that is the Kyung Teton. I like it.
Using the description has helped me make better choices. The ratings shouldnt be ignored but, the description helps. I use many of my BFS trout rods for panfish, tons of fun!
I fish exclusively big lakes and reservoirs for 2-5lb trout (rainbow), some bass and, pan fish with little crappie jigs. Mostly from shore but sometimes boat too. I dont have any bfs setups yet but looks like a blast. Thinking about getting two for different applications. What would be your two recommended rods to throw small rapalas and maybe topwater small popper and, another rod for more panfish style jigs? Never ordered from JDM. Thinking conquest bfs and aldabaran for reels or two of same…. New sub, enjoy your videos. Thank you
Great video boss, but out of all the bfs rods I have obtained from 30 to 300 dollars I always go back to use the special edition kuying teton light and ultra light rods between 110 and 150 dollars
That $150 area is a great value to performance. The rods above that can be a little better but, it costs more "performance per dollar" as you grow in price
@@HobieWanKenobi Thanks for the reply. Have you ever used an industrial lubricant for reel bearings? I used to service baitcasters and offered "supertuning" which meant polishing any surfaces that drag washers contact or surfaces that friction braking is applied. The customers would have to reset spool tension and braking. Most increased their brakes if not good thumbers. Reels became "looser". The lubricant gets cut 50/50 with isopropyl 92%. Makes the fluid very thin. Once the alky evaporates a thin synthetic membrane remains on bearing surfaces. TSI 321. I'm not a seller nor benefit from passing this along.
@@charlievthetuna I read about people using TSI 321 for spool bearings. I have not done that myself. Seems like a great product, as the film it leaves does not impede rotation as much as a liquid would
I fish bass and panfish fairly equally. Is there a rod that you could recommend that does both of these well? Thanks in advance and thank you for your great content.
I have a Major Craft Finetail FTX-B38/425UL and it's very compact, but far too fast for the small trout I target in headwaters. I ended up getting the Palms Egeria ETVC-46XUL a couple years ago through a Japanese re-shipping service and it's become my favorite for the smaller streams. Now that Digitaka sells them I may eventually get another. I do wish it was slightly shorter so it could fit easily in carry-on luggage, but if it were more pieces, it wouldn't fish the same. Looking into the Tailwalk Troutia Feerique C43L-T or the C49L/G-P4 for a better travel rod that hopefully isn't as stiff as the Major Craft.
@@HobieWanKenobi Last week I had to pack the Palms Egeria in a checked bag for a trip to Costa Rica. Delayed flights meant my bag almost didn't make it. I just ordered the MajorCraft Finetail glass 5pc rod to avoid that stress in the future.
@@HobieWanKenobi I only had a half-day to fish but landed 20 rainbows in the Rio Savegre. Most were under 10", but they had great color and were good sport on the Egeria. Catching trout in a cloud rainforest is easily one of the coolest fishing experiences I've had, so the stress of getting the rod was worth it.
You didn't mention your Jackson Rhapsody. How is it holding up? I worry about the long term use of a telescoping rod. Would it be suitable for bluegill? I use a Majorcraft 4"10" glass rod that I like a lot. i would like to add a graphite rod to possibly gain casting distance and power. I usually fish lures in the 3 gram range.
The Rhapsody KWSM-C47L-T is holding up fine. The Rhapsody feels nice casting in open water and has more "flick" than a glass rod. It can work for bluegill but, I find myself reaching for other rods for bluegill. Usually some of my longer rods.
I could not understand the soft glass fishing rods from aliexpress. I am still looking for something like Egeria ETVC-46, which I really liked on fish from 200 grams. My #1 for lures 2,5-5 grams.
Many of those soft glass rods from AliExpress are just made to cast the lightest lure and for people to get hype over casting .5gr using max braking and a hard casting motion to make a "viral" video. Those types of rods are not too great to fish when trying to catch fish. The Egeria seems to be a real winner for finesse trout fishing.
I currently only own one legitimate BFS setup, but the one rod I do own I want to recommend to you. I use the Daiwa Wise Stream 45ULB-3 paired to a Shimano Curado BFS XG Left and 4lb Varivas Sight Addition. You would love the Wise Stream! Really versatile and not too pricey either.
I looked into that rod a few times. It does seem like Daiwa's version of the Trout One NS of sorts. Budget BFS rod that keeps the tradition of the manufacturer.
I bought the Shimano Trout 1ns B50UL and I paired it to the Daiwa Silver Creek Air Stream Custom bfs reel. Amazing combo for trout and all around ultra light fishing.
Bonsoir , tout mes meilleurs voeux pour cette année 2023 . Merci pour cette très bonne vidéo sur les cannes BFS ...Que pensez vous des montages d'anneaux en spiral sur les cannes BFS ?? ..J'ai testé mes je n'ai pas trouvé mes lancés plus performants mes je dois avouer que je ne suis pas un très bon technicien ... Cordialement , Alain . de France .
I do not find a spiral placement of the guides make a casting difference with short BFS rods. The angles are usually too sharp because the rods are shorter.
I use the Kuying Tetons, TTC 522UL, TTC 510SUL, 662L, Rapala Snow 4-10lb, Rapala Ceratina Super Light Series 2-6lb, Custom Fiberglass 5'0" SUL 1-5g 1-4lb 3pcs, Custom Suzuki Black Hole 4-8lbs 2-7g, Tsu Dragon 602L, custom built American Tackle Matrix PFR2 6'0" 6-12lb, Storm Discovery 602L 2-6lb 2-7g and the Mavlos Delicacy UL/L.
@@HobieWanKenobi the Snow comes in 1 pc as well as 2 pcs. With only 2 specs. 4-10lb and 6-12lb. The Ceratina comes only in 2pc and 1 spec, 2-5lb and 1-6g. They are more targetted for the JDM and Asian markets.
@@HobieWanKenobi 😁 Yes... I am from Malaysia, and pretty lucky that we somehow get the JDM stuff. Not everything, but enough. Especially reels, what Japan gets, we get.
I was gifted a scorpion bfs reel but dont really know much about bfs fishing. With that said I make my own rods but i only use spinning for panfish or trout when up at our camp in the Upper Peninsula. Im wanting to build my own bfs trout rod but not really sure on the rod blank itself. When I trout fish its mainly just a bare hook, worm, and a small split shot. What type of rod do you recommend so I can build my rod?
Split shots can be difficult to cast with BFS gear, as the weight rotates when flying through the air. You can use any spinning blank that you feel would make a great BFS rod. The blank does not know what reel is being put on it. I would go with a 1 piece reel seat due to the blank bending if using a deep bending blank. I like the Phenix Mirage for a softer UL blank.
Great work Hobie. Very well explained. I only use carbon rods with different actions. I got the Megabass Destroyer Carbon Head, the model is called Elese, which is really slow, but at the end it‘s more of a bass rod. I waited for your custom glass rod to try ;) Don‘t you think it‘s time for you to try a Megabass Great Hunting rod? This is a rod I think about trying for years but unfortunately these are all multi piece rods which I am not a fan of 🤷♂️
For streams last season my favourite was the Tsurinoya Trout master 4'6", solid carbon but due to the location I'm fishing and the approach more often than not I'd use my Major Craft finetail switch travel rod at either 5' or 4'6" depending on the River or the fishband magic trout 4pc if I know the trout will be under 12". I've also got a Rapala Ceratina which I've used for Rainbows in ponds and general purpose UL work on UK canals and the Tsurinoya Elf Trout which I've never used for trout 🤣. I have other BFS rods as well but these are the trout ones.
The Master is tubular I believe. It is similar to the Ares but, is more crisp like a tubular rod. It's a great rod either way. I will be doing a video covering bass BFS rods so, maybe you can post the rest on that video.
Hello, thanks for a good video. Just have to ask, what do you feel is a better head water rod length, 4-5.5ft or 6-6.5ft? Also, how do you feel about the one pice UL rods for head water? I have the idea that no joints make it more sensitive, "better", but sure I am wrong. Cheers from Norway
If fishing headwaters, I prefer shorter rods. The fish are generally smaller and the streams can be narrow. Around me, headwaters have a lot of brush as well so, short rods are better for me.
@@HobieWanKenobi Thanksfor the reply. Well, "my" head waters are from 5 ft wide to a max of say 20 ft and the normal/standard trout is 5"-12". Yes, I have catch bigger, but, not the normal catch. Also, the river/creeks flow hard/fast in 75% of the time. So, Guess a short glass/soft action rod is for me.
Hi, I have a question, what's the drawback of having a strong backbone ultralight rod? For example, if I use a JDM ultralight bass rod for trout, is it bad compared to a JDM trout specific rod?
Drawback to too much backbone is ripping hooks from the fishes mouth. A stiff rod cannot cushion the headshakes from fish as well as a more moderate tapered rod. Bass rods can work for trout, I don't all the time. They just have to be light enough backbone. Using monofilament may help give the rod more cushion as well.
@@HobieWanKenobi I have Shimano Poison Glorious 2510UL, it's an ultralight bass rod, 2-7g lure rating, extra fast action, do you think it would work well for trout?
Phenix k2 b-tx-c 712L custom built by my buddy with daiwa alphas air tw 7.1. And a phenix mirage b mf s 671-1also built by my buddy paired with a shimano vanford 1000. Titanium torzite guides. Custom split grips with stabilized wood and cork
How is the taper of the K2? I have a 714 and it is lighter than I thought it would be. The mirage is a sick blank too. I have a 6ft one I built up and it's great for panfish
@Hobie-Wan Kenobi it feels good but honestly it's been 2 weeks since my buddy finished the k2 and I've been to the not frozen end of the pond but no fish..... it's been rough in ct lately. Going to try again this weekend. But it casts 4 inch keitechs on 1/16oz hooks amazingly. I got some micro pompadours and gancraft 70 and other stuff I'm going to test out. Also the new zman ultralight stuff and mule stuff to test
@Hobie-Wan Kenobi I love my mirage for messing around with pan fish and small bass. Going to try trout this spring never went.... my rods were built like bass rods and I like a slightly longer handle since I'm mostly saltwater.
So I have a question for a different application, so this is a little bit out of left field. I vertically fish for trout in a deep reservoir from an anchored boat 37ft to 50ft directly below the boat with jigs as light as 1/32oz. The rainbows average 2lbs to 4lbs. I am currently using a 5'6" extra fast spinning rod with 4lb braided line and 4lb fluro leader and doing OK. The issue is the line coils coming off the spinning rod and I lose touch with the jig on the drop so not ideal and it takes a while for the line to uncoil when reaching depth. I was thinking about a BFS casting setup as the line will come off the reel straight. So will a BFS casting setup be good for this application? I was thinking about starting at the low end with a KastKing Zephyr BFS. Will need a recommendation for a rod rated for 2lb to 6lb test... and must be extra fast. Extra fast tapers are not consistent between manufacturers so looking for your input.
Regardless of the reel, line choice would be a big difference with memory. Also, with a jig that small, trailer size/shape will greatly impact how fast your lure falls (could play into pulling coils out too). Dobyns makes some sub-7ft BFS rods that are Xfast. They give under force too which would help prevent the fish from tossing hooks as easy. Spinning setup seems best for what you are doing.
at that point use any casting reel and loosen drag unless you do plan to cast with it since you are just dropping the jig down you dont need a bfs spool
@@ireject1203 That's true in a strictly vertical jigging sense. Would still need a lightweight spool to drop the light lure without having to wait for spool to gain momentum.
@@HobieWanKenobi I mean he could just strip line by hand and keep his thumb on the spool to prevent over runs as annoying as that would be great channel btw I am currently starting me a build of my first bfs rod and reel I am gonna use a abu ambassabuer 2500c gonna take a hot minute but o well
My only 2 BFS setups so far are the Dobyns Ultra Finesse 650 with the 22 Aldebaran and the 691C with the SLX BFS mounted on that. Haven't used them yet (Iced out) but they feel really sweet. The 650 has a extra fast action 0 power and the 691 feels like a fast action 1 power. Thank's for the advice HOBIE.
@@HobieWanKenobithank you sir. Here in socal we are catching 2-13# stocked trout and I need something with sensitivity, casting distance with 1 gram jigs and hooksetting power. Thank you. Would you have reel recommendations?
Kinda. If you catch lake dwelling trout, the Phenix Classic BFS can do all three. It is tough for a stream rod to be used as a bass rod due to length. If you like shorter rods and target smaller bass, you could get a away with a stream rod for sure.
Thanks for the informative video. Below is a list of my go-to BFS Trout rods.
Rayz Jerkin’ (BFS)
RZ542BL 5’4” Light Power
Line 1-6 pd. Lure 1-8 g
Tenryu Rayz Spectra (BFS)
RZ51LL (UL) 5’1” Light -Light
Line 1-5 lb. Lure 1-8 g
Resilure S-Glass (BFS)
5’ 3 Piece. UL. Lure 1-5 g
Kuying Teton 522SUL (BFS) 5’2”
Line 1-3 lb. Lure 0.8 - 3 g
That Spectra is a nice rod. I used a friend's and I liked the taper quite a bit
After watching your video I went and bought a Handing magic L. Best decision I every made.
Sweet! There are so many great trout rod options at low prices
@@HobieWanKenobi there really are a bunch of great trout rods on the market. Right now I am partial to Handling rods .. but I know I’ll be looking at so many others in the future .
Custom fiberglass rod from Resilure. Tenyru rayz spectra. Daiwa silver creek glass progressive. And Jackson rhapsody telescopic really enjoy this one for jigs
That's an impressive lineup. I really want to try the UL Glass Progressive
Thanks for covering the Palms Egeria. I can't wait to get mine.
It seems like a good rod on the finesse side of BFS trout fishing. It's definitely more versatile than I thought
I currently have two rods both are 7' Old18 Bouyancy models, one in Ultralight W/Aldebaran and the other light action that will get the Metanium shallow edition.
The UL seems to be a great all-around for both panfish and bass, while the light will be used with slightly heavier lures for mainly bass.
Seems like you like them rods. Good to be able cover most of your fishing with two rods.
That Palms Egeria looks like it will be a fun rod.
It has been fun in the limited times I have used it. Should be a great rod for brook trout and even skinny waters for panfish.
Dobyns and Phenix. Small guides and issues with Albright Knot. Curado BFS and Calcutta D. No joy thus far. Varivas 0.8 and 6 lb fluorocarbon on the Calcutta. Best channel thanks
I love those rods. I havent had issues with a uni to uni knot through those guides. The Curado BFS I feel is more of a "bass" reel. It doesnt like super light lures.
@@HobieWanKenobi Thank You. I have switched to fluorocarbon. There has been a learning curve however setting up my reels correctly, made all the difference. Thank you and appreciate your channel.
The rod I use the most is major craft benkei 6'5" ul/bf with a conquest bfshg . 6# braid with 4-6# fc leader . I use 1/6 --- 3/16 oz most 1/8 oz. Manly jig head and small plastic . I get white perch , see trout , rock fish and a few snakehead .
This is for Eastern Shore march creek
That sounds like a fun place to fish. How dare you use 1/8oz with BFS gear!!??!! Just kidding, there are people that say that to me... 😂
Where is that at?
Hello! I’ve been wanting to get into trout bfs fishing for a while. The only thing I’ve been hung up on is rod choice. I would mostly throw small jigs and minnows. So I’m thinking I’d want a little bit faster action than glass. I usually fish smaller rivers with brook trout and often brown and rainbow trout as well, so sizes probably vary from 5-18in, but mostly on the smaller end. I do occasionally go to open lakes to fish for trout and panfish as well. I would also like a somewhat packable rod, but a two piece would be fine. I think I’d probably like to stay around that 150 dollar range but I wouldn’t mind going higher.
The Shimano Trout One NS 4'7L or the Jackson Kawasemi Rhapsody. Both are carbon trout rods that are great for the fishing you mentioned.
Oh forgot to add I also have a Kuying freestyle walker 4pc UL which is a great little rod that I will be taking abroad soon for some Saltwater BFS fun.
Kuying put budget BFS on the map. Glad to see people still using their rods.
I am building my first one right now on a Rainshadow R6 5’4” UL 2-piece. The blank feels pretty nice, but we will see once I get it set up.
Rainshadow makes some pretty nice blanks. I built a few on an NFC 46UL IM blank. Even for a slow taper rod, it was still kinda fast for my liking. It's good for medium streams.
RainShadow spg601 (4'8 built rod) prefect blank for 1 piece. Now, I need to figure out how to make the same action shorty 3 piece.
Casting graphite feels similar to swinging a sword because of a spine, where glass noodle is like finessing a magic wand. Go mage and never look back!😂
I make sure to diversify my skill tree and build up melee and magic attacks. Equipping non-class specific amulets also said in casting, regardless of rod type.
@@HobieWanKenobi Multiclassing eh, I suppose if you could finesse a sword it would come in handy.
My wrist casts tend to do circular motion similar to tennis wine up and even side casts that's what i cant get over on a spiny ones
@@lymphy12 I come from a tennis background too. The carbon rods respond quicker so, they tend to "shoot" a lure a little more than fiberglass. This isn't a bad thing, just something to keep in mind
I just got the ray turantula finesse rod as a starter rod and I can't wait to try them this summer at these Idaho alpine lakes
I had the first gen Tarantula rod. Good for the money but no way I'd use that long of a handle for BFS stream fishing. It was ok for lakes. I caught my PB bluegill with that rod...the memories
@@HobieWanKenobiI bought the 5'4 and 7ft model they definitely made improvements especially on shortening the handle length
That's good to hear. Great rod for the money from the first Gen1 that I used.
I’ve got two setups right now. SLX bfs xg with roro spool on a major craft finetail 5’8 1-5grams and a 2022 Aldebaran bfs xg on a Dobyns ultralight finesse 6’5 (kkr spool arrives this weekend). Anything I’ve done bfs wise I’ve gone to ur videos for reference, so thank you!
How do you like the SLX BFS with the Roro spool? I see you have it on the lighter rod and am curious how to like it compared to the stock Aldebaran BFS
@@HobieWanKenobi I’ll have to put in more time on the Aldebaran as I just got a couple days ago. I will say that the one time I did use it I could see myself wanting to use it anytime I go out. But for slx with roro spool I think it’s definitely a great buy, something about being able to throw 1g lures gets me excited lol. I do have another rod coming that I plan to take out with the Aldebaran with kkr spool for trout, rod is 5’10 0-.3-3grams. The Dobyns rod I plan to use it with the stock Aldebaran for bass.
You will love the Aldebaran BFS when you get time with it.
I've got my bases covered for trout/panfish rods in my area being the Yamaga Blanks Blue Current II 71B, Fenwick Aces 60CLJ and a BPS 6' Light Crappie Maxx (pretty good value, but might be discontinued), but I'm looking for my first bass oriented BFS rod. Want to throw 2.8 kietechs on 1/8 to 3/16 weighted swimbait hooks (like owner twist locks) skipping around cover as I'm more accurate doing so with a baitcaster and some finesse jigs. Only issue is I prefer to be at that 7' mark in length to skip, I just can't or really have to focus if I try to skip with a shorter rod. I've thought about the Fenwick Aces 70CLJ+, but the rarity and cost with shipping, I'd prefer something easier to get. Just want a 7 foot 1/16-3/8 or 1/8-3/8 fast ML. Suggestions?
Check out the Cashion Icon BFS 610ML. I too prefer 7ft and up but, being the handle is a little shorter than regular bass rods, it fishes like a 7ft rod. It's great for skipping and has a good balance of finesse and power.
You The Man Hobie! Thank's
No problem. Glad you stopped by and watched.
I have Shimano Curado BF paired with Shimano Trout NS One rod. I also have Shimano Aldebaran paired with Shimano NX Cardiff... both great combo.
That Trout One NS is a great rod for the money.
Hi, great video with lots of useful information. My question : for casting 1g lure (like Illex woodlouse), would you recommend fiber glass rod or solid carbon tip rod?
I would go with a carbon rod. You will have enough power to set the hook with the soft plastic lure
Dobyns Sierra Ultra Finesse SUF700C. At times I wish it was shorter though.
Dobyns makes a few shorter models. I like the 701 for bass fishing. The 700 came first so, that's all I knew until the 701 came about.
I just purchased the 691C and it feels sweet but haven't used it yet.
My bfs setup is Abu Garia Hornet Stringer Plus paired up with Daiwa SV light (modified bearings and spool). I caught a lot of Peacock bass even big ones but never manage to land big one as they are smart to go into the rocks to break the line. Other fish like Snakehead and smaller fish in Saltwater too at Singapore. I am getting another rod from Dankung, a fiberglass rod. I wonder do you have more details about that rod?
Singapore seems like a dream place to fish. That fiberglass rod from DanKung isnt a bad rod. After using both rods, I prefer the Palms Egeria XXUL to that rod. I have a video reviewing that DanKung rod.
@@HobieWanKenobi Thanks for letting us know. I was close to purchase the DanKung Glassfin but now i put a Egeria Native Performance ETVC-42XUL in my shoppingbasket instead :)
@@DanielOdell Good choice. I find it to be a little better rod than the GLASSFIN.
Can you review the kuying Teton 552 SUL casting rod. I been catching bass and crappie with this rod. Biggest bass was 5lbs. Would love to see you review this rod. I been using crappie maxx 6lb mono hi-vis Camo.
I have no plans to review that rod but, I know many people say they enjoy that rod.
Have you fish the Tenryu Rz51LL-BC before? Deciding between the Tenryu and the Daiwa 51LB-G glass progressive. The lures that I use are at least 4.5g and above. Fish target are at least 8” and above.
I have fished that model Tenryu. I liked the versatility of that rod. It's better than the Glass Progressive for smaller fish (8" and below). If only using 4.5gr and above minnow style lures, I would go Glass Progressive. Digitaka gets them in stock pretty frequently. Discount Code 97J started not too long ago there too
I have quite a number of BFS rods , from extreme ul to light saltwater . I fish small mt. streem to Chesapeake bay tidel creeks .
That is quite the range of fishing. I want to do some BFS fishing in saltwater sometime. What rod is your favorite for stream fishing?
@@HobieWanKenobi unfortunately it has been quite a long time since I have done any as I live on Maryland eastern shore now . I hope to get back up to Vermont this year for some and explore some closer to me across the bay .
There are some nice areas in Vermont and such for Brook Trout.
This was a very informative video. It never occurred to me to use the descriptiom of the rod over the rating as a clue to the performance of the rod. I only have one true BFS "trout panfish" rod and that is the Kyung Teton. I like it.
Using the description has helped me make better choices. The ratings shouldnt be ignored but, the description helps. I use many of my BFS trout rods for panfish, tons of fun!
I fish exclusively big lakes and reservoirs for 2-5lb trout (rainbow), some bass and, pan fish with little crappie jigs. Mostly from shore but sometimes boat too. I dont have any bfs setups yet but looks like a blast. Thinking about getting two for different applications. What would be your two recommended rods to throw small rapalas and maybe topwater small popper and, another rod for more panfish style jigs? Never ordered from JDM. Thinking conquest bfs and aldabaran for reels or two of same…. New sub, enjoy your videos. Thank you
i use a kuying teton L and UL and a tsurinya dragon for trout and yellow perch .
The Teton is a legend, a pioneer for budget BFS rods. Perch on BFS are really fun.
Great video boss, but out of all the bfs rods I have obtained from 30 to 300 dollars I always go back to use the special edition kuying teton light and ultra light rods between 110 and 150 dollars
Old 18 buoyancy rod is my most expensive one and love it but it's a 7' and I lean towards 6' to 5' rods mostly
That $150 area is a great value to performance. The rods above that can be a little better but, it costs more "performance per dollar" as you grow in price
Exactly to a T
A daiwa 7’ ul cast rod has been working great for bank fishing in the lakes.
Good to know! I like longer rods for lakes. Much more versatile and the longer rods helps with casting.
Not sure if you have covered this. Best/lightest/smallest OD star drag replacements for popular BFS reels.
I haven't covered it and, I rarely replace the drag stars. I may go over some of my favorite aftermarket parts or something
@@HobieWanKenobi Thanks for the reply. Have you ever used an industrial lubricant for reel bearings? I used to service baitcasters and offered "supertuning" which meant polishing any surfaces that drag washers contact or surfaces that friction braking is applied. The customers would have to reset spool tension and braking. Most increased their brakes if not good thumbers. Reels became "looser". The lubricant gets cut 50/50 with isopropyl 92%. Makes the fluid very thin. Once the alky evaporates a thin synthetic membrane remains on bearing surfaces. TSI 321. I'm not a seller nor benefit from passing this along.
@@charlievthetuna I read about people using TSI 321 for spool bearings. I have not done that myself. Seems like a great product, as the film it leaves does not impede rotation as much as a liquid would
I fish bass and panfish fairly equally. Is there a rod that you could recommend that does both of these well? Thanks in advance and thank you for your great content.
I would go with the Phenix Classic BFS.
I have a Major Craft Finetail FTX-B38/425UL and it's very compact, but far too fast for the small trout I target in headwaters. I ended up getting the Palms Egeria ETVC-46XUL a couple years ago through a Japanese re-shipping service and it's become my favorite for the smaller streams. Now that Digitaka sells them I may eventually get another. I do wish it was slightly shorter so it could fit easily in carry-on luggage, but if it were more pieces, it wouldn't fish the same. Looking into the Tailwalk Troutia Feerique C43L-T or the C49L/G-P4 for a better travel rod that hopefully isn't as stiff as the Major Craft.
Carry-on luggage is definitely a perk for stream rods. I had to put my rods in my checked luggage...very scary
@@HobieWanKenobi Last week I had to pack the Palms Egeria in a checked bag for a trip to Costa Rica. Delayed flights meant my bag almost didn't make it. I just ordered the MajorCraft Finetail glass 5pc rod to avoid that stress in the future.
@@frog2610 That would be nerve wracking. Did you catch any fish though?
@@HobieWanKenobi I only had a half-day to fish but landed 20 rainbows in the Rio Savegre. Most were under 10", but they had great color and were good sport on the Egeria. Catching trout in a cloud rainforest is easily one of the coolest fishing experiences I've had, so the stress of getting the rod was worth it.
@@frog2610 That sounds amazing
You didn't mention your Jackson Rhapsody. How is it holding up? I worry about the long term use of a telescoping rod. Would it be suitable for bluegill? I use a Majorcraft 4"10" glass rod that I like a lot. i would like to add a graphite rod to possibly gain casting distance and power. I usually fish lures in the 3 gram range.
The Rhapsody KWSM-C47L-T is holding up fine. The Rhapsody feels nice casting in open water and has more "flick" than a glass rod. It can work for bluegill but, I find myself reaching for other rods for bluegill. Usually some of my longer rods.
I could not understand the soft glass fishing rods from aliexpress. I am still looking for something like Egeria ETVC-46, which I really liked on fish from 200 grams. My #1 for lures 2,5-5 grams.
Many of those soft glass rods from AliExpress are just made to cast the lightest lure and for people to get hype over casting .5gr using max braking and a hard casting motion to make a "viral" video. Those types of rods are not too great to fish when trying to catch fish. The Egeria seems to be a real winner for finesse trout fishing.
I currently only own one legitimate BFS setup, but the one rod I do own I want to recommend to you. I use the Daiwa Wise Stream 45ULB-3 paired to a Shimano Curado BFS XG Left and 4lb Varivas Sight Addition. You would love the Wise Stream! Really versatile and not too pricey either.
I looked into that rod a few times. It does seem like Daiwa's version of the Trout One NS of sorts. Budget BFS rod that keeps the tradition of the manufacturer.
I bought the Shimano Trout 1ns B50UL and I paired it to the Daiwa Silver Creek Air Stream Custom bfs reel. Amazing combo for trout and all around ultra light fishing.
That's good to hear. I feel this 47L will give me a similar experience
Bonsoir , tout mes meilleurs voeux pour cette année 2023 . Merci pour cette très bonne vidéo sur les cannes BFS ...Que pensez vous des montages d'anneaux en spiral sur les cannes BFS ?? ..J'ai testé mes je n'ai pas trouvé mes lancés plus performants mes je dois avouer que je ne suis pas un très bon technicien ... Cordialement , Alain . de France .
I do not find a spiral placement of the guides make a casting difference with short BFS rods. The angles are usually too sharp because the rods are shorter.
@@HobieWanKenobi Merci pour votre analyse et votre réponse .Cordialement , Alain.
I use the Kuying Tetons, TTC 522UL, TTC 510SUL, 662L, Rapala Snow 4-10lb, Rapala Ceratina Super Light Series 2-6lb, Custom Fiberglass 5'0" SUL 1-5g 1-4lb 3pcs, Custom Suzuki Black Hole 4-8lbs 2-7g, Tsu Dragon 602L, custom built American Tackle Matrix PFR2 6'0" 6-12lb, Storm Discovery 602L 2-6lb 2-7g and the Mavlos Delicacy UL/L.
Some of those Rapala rods look pretty nice. Hopefully they bring those rods to the American market.
@@HobieWanKenobi the Snow comes in 1 pc as well as 2 pcs. With only 2 specs. 4-10lb and 6-12lb. The Ceratina comes only in 2pc and 1 spec, 2-5lb and 1-6g. They are more targetted for the JDM and Asian markets.
@@HobieWanKenobi the Storm Discovery is also a pretty neat BFS rod.
Seems like the foreign markets always get the fun tackle.
@@HobieWanKenobi 😁 Yes... I am from Malaysia, and pretty lucky that we somehow get the JDM stuff. Not everything, but enough. Especially reels, what Japan gets, we get.
I was gifted a scorpion bfs reel but dont really know much about bfs fishing. With that said I make my own rods but i only use spinning for panfish or trout when up at our camp in the Upper Peninsula. Im wanting to build my own bfs trout rod but not really sure on the rod blank itself. When I trout fish its mainly just a bare hook, worm, and a small split shot. What type of rod do you recommend so I can build my rod?
Split shots can be difficult to cast with BFS gear, as the weight rotates when flying through the air. You can use any spinning blank that you feel would make a great BFS rod. The blank does not know what reel is being put on it. I would go with a 1 piece reel seat due to the blank bending if using a deep bending blank. I like the Phenix Mirage for a softer UL blank.
PS. Love your CZcams channel buddy.
Thank you, it means a lot.
@@HobieWanKenobi you're welcome buddy.
I have a question I like the Daiwa rod that you said is your favorite pan fish rod where can I find one that's like that
They have been hard to find. I been looking for the 57UL version for years. This rod is the 52L Silver Creek AGS
Great work Hobie. Very well explained. I only use carbon rods with different actions. I got the Megabass Destroyer Carbon Head, the model is called Elese, which is really slow, but at the end it‘s more of a bass rod. I waited for your custom glass rod to try ;)
Don‘t you think it‘s time for you to try a Megabass Great Hunting rod? This is a rod I think about trying for years but unfortunately these are all multi piece rods which I am not a fan of 🤷♂️
Did you see the new Great Hunting rods? They are like a work of art.
@@HobieWanKenobi I did and it‘s hard to resist the temptation;)
I may look into getting one. I would need a proxy buyer I'd imagine. Seems like a limited production
@@HobieWanKenobi maybe someone from the Hook Up Tackle can help?
@@arnemueller2112 Maybe...they do import some Megabass trout rods @thehookuptackle_usa
For streams last season my favourite was the Tsurinoya Trout master 4'6", solid carbon but due to the location I'm fishing and the approach more often than not I'd use my Major Craft finetail switch travel rod at either 5' or 4'6" depending on the River or the fishband magic trout 4pc if I know the trout will be under 12". I've also got a Rapala Ceratina which I've used for Rainbows in ponds and general purpose UL work on UK canals and the Tsurinoya Elf Trout which I've never used for trout 🤣. I have other BFS rods as well but these are the trout ones.
The Master is tubular I believe. It is similar to the Ares but, is more crisp like a tubular rod. It's a great rod either way. I will be doing a video covering bass BFS rods so, maybe you can post the rest on that video.
Can you reccomend some trout rods for bass?
Kinda tough. Other than some L powered carbon rods, there isn't much functional overlap due to length and taper.
Have you done a vid on your custom bfs rod ?
Not a specific video of it.
Hello, thanks for a good video. Just have to ask, what do you feel is a better head water rod length, 4-5.5ft or 6-6.5ft? Also, how do you feel about the one pice UL rods for head water? I have the idea that no joints make it more sensitive, "better", but sure I am wrong. Cheers from Norway
If fishing headwaters, I prefer shorter rods. The fish are generally smaller and the streams can be narrow. Around me, headwaters have a lot of brush as well so, short rods are better for me.
@@HobieWanKenobi Thanksfor the reply. Well, "my" head waters are from 5 ft wide to a max of say 20 ft and the normal/standard trout is 5"-12". Yes, I have catch bigger, but, not the normal catch. Also, the river/creeks flow hard/fast in 75% of the time.
So, Guess a short glass/soft action rod is for me.
Yes. The Palms Egeria NATIVE Performance 44XXUL has been a great rod for that type of fishing.
What's your thoughts I have a 16 aldebaron paired with a phenix feather 7'1 fast light 1/8 to 3/8 oz.
Seems like a good setup for bass fishing. Most likely a little stiff for trout fishing
Hi, I have a question, what's the drawback of having a strong backbone ultralight rod? For example, if I use a JDM ultralight bass rod for trout, is it bad compared to a JDM trout specific rod?
Drawback to too much backbone is ripping hooks from the fishes mouth. A stiff rod cannot cushion the headshakes from fish as well as a more moderate tapered rod.
Bass rods can work for trout, I don't all the time. They just have to be light enough backbone. Using monofilament may help give the rod more cushion as well.
@@HobieWanKenobi I have Shimano Poison Glorious 2510UL, it's an ultralight bass rod, 2-7g lure rating, extra fast action, do you think it would work well for trout?
Phenix k2 b-tx-c 712L custom built by my buddy with daiwa alphas air tw 7.1. And a phenix mirage b mf s 671-1also built by my buddy paired with a shimano vanford 1000. Titanium torzite guides. Custom split grips with stabilized wood and cork
How is the taper of the K2? I have a 714 and it is lighter than I thought it would be. The mirage is a sick blank too. I have a 6ft one I built up and it's great for panfish
@Hobie-Wan Kenobi it feels good but honestly it's been 2 weeks since my buddy finished the k2 and I've been to the not frozen end of the pond but no fish..... it's been rough in ct lately. Going to try again this weekend. But it casts 4 inch keitechs on 1/16oz hooks amazingly. I got some micro pompadours and gancraft 70 and other stuff I'm going to test out. Also the new zman ultralight stuff and mule stuff to test
I wouldn't have a chance up by me. Snow and ice until April most years
@Hobie-Wan Kenobi I love my mirage for messing around with pan fish and small bass. Going to try trout this spring never went.... my rods were built like bass rods and I like a slightly longer handle since I'm mostly saltwater.
@@notillegal6771 The Mirage is great for trout too. I prefer to use braided line with mine.
M. Kenobi why not fly fishing, what is your thoughts?
I am afraid I will get too addicted to it 😂
So I have a question for a different application, so this is a little bit out of left field. I vertically fish for trout in a deep reservoir from an anchored boat 37ft to 50ft directly below the boat with jigs as light as 1/32oz. The rainbows average 2lbs to 4lbs. I am currently using a 5'6" extra fast spinning rod with 4lb braided line and 4lb fluro leader and doing OK. The issue is the line coils coming off the spinning rod and I lose touch with the jig on the drop so not ideal and it takes a while for the line to uncoil when reaching depth. I was thinking about a BFS casting setup as the line will come off the reel straight. So will a BFS casting setup be good for this application? I was thinking about starting at the low end with a KastKing Zephyr BFS. Will need a recommendation for a rod rated for 2lb to 6lb test... and must be extra fast. Extra fast tapers are not consistent between manufacturers so looking for your input.
Regardless of the reel, line choice would be a big difference with memory. Also, with a jig that small, trailer size/shape will greatly impact how fast your lure falls (could play into pulling coils out too). Dobyns makes some sub-7ft BFS rods that are Xfast. They give under force too which would help prevent the fish from tossing hooks as easy.
Spinning setup seems best for what you are doing.
at that point use any casting reel and loosen drag unless you do plan to cast with it since you are just dropping the jig down you dont need a bfs spool
@@ireject1203 That's true in a strictly vertical jigging sense. Would still need a lightweight spool to drop the light lure without having to wait for spool to gain momentum.
@@HobieWanKenobi I mean he could just strip line by hand and keep his thumb on the spool to prevent over runs as annoying as that would be great channel btw I am currently starting me a build of my first bfs rod and reel I am gonna use a abu ambassabuer 2500c gonna take a hot minute but o well
@@ireject1203 Parts can be hard to find with the older Abu reels but, seem so worth it in the long run
My only 2 BFS setups so far are the Dobyns Ultra Finesse 650 with the 22 Aldebaran and the 691C with the SLX BFS mounted on that. Haven't used them yet (Iced out) but they feel really sweet. The 650 has a extra fast action 0 power and the 691 feels like a fast action 1 power. Thank's for the advice HOBIE.
Those are some solid finesse bass setups. I like the 1c rods without the solid tip a little more.
@@HobieWanKenobi I'm feeling the same way. The 650 with the solid Extra fast tip is soooo thin. I'm sure it will hold up but it does make me nervous.
@@philipfalco7304 The feeling of the xx1c rods is more like a traditional rod
@@HobieWanKenobi Agreed! the 691C feel's like a really light, traditional Bass rod.
Do they make 6-7 ft rods for casting 1-2 gram jigs for twitching?
Yes. Mostly called Ajing rods. Usually fast action lighter rods around 6-7ft.
@@HobieWanKenobithank you sir. Here in socal we are catching 2-13# stocked trout and I need something with sensitivity, casting distance with 1 gram jigs and hooksetting power. Thank you. Would you have reel recommendations?
I really like the Daiwa Gekkabijin AIR TW for open water distance casting. Good control with getting distance, even with wind.
Thank you sir.
Is there rod for both trout, panfish, and bass for BFS?
Kinda. If you catch lake dwelling trout, the Phenix Classic BFS can do all three. It is tough for a stream rod to be used as a bass rod due to length. If you like shorter rods and target smaller bass, you could get a away with a stream rod for sure.
I’m up in Utah where I’m catching 20-26 in rainbow and cut throat trout. Any suggestions for bfs rods and reels? Cheers.
Dobyns 700
I prefer the 701 but both are great rods.