I recently got into BFS. While I opted to go for the best available reels on the market, I didn’t go the same route on rods and ordered them from ali express. One is the Ace Hawk Venom in 5 ft 6 in. The action is moderate fast and it can load well on a 1/32 oz jig + plastic. I would definitely recommend it for crappie because of the soft rod action. Also, it does not feel too powerful for bluegill. Plenty sensitive for $40 - $45. The second is Tsurinoya Dragon II 6 ft in UL power. It is correct stated as a fast action rod and will cast 1/32 oz without issues, though the Ace Hawk will load better at that weight. Again, plenty sensitive for $74.99. No issues at all with 1/16 oz+ jigs on both rods.

In my opinion casting bfs reels calls for a much more refined cast than bass baitcasting reels. Smooth fluid motion has helped me. But I’ll get a birds nest when I unconsciously whip cast.

It is an interesting light tackle fishing technique. So far I have used it in still water and looking forward to using it in the streams during fall trout stocking. Using the thumb for braking in tight quarters should be a big benefit.


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