Originally Posted by
TDobb
I don't have a ton of experience with all of the various rods on the BFS market, but I can tell you that the rod I built this spring for BFS fishing is all I could dream of and more. I built it on a Bushido Warrior blank that is rated for 6-10 lb line and 1/8 to 3/8 ounce baits, they call it a medium light, extra fast. I wrapped titanium guides on it and made the handle with some cypress. I also put an Alphas reel on it, but the older SV 105 variety. I can pitch crappie baits down to 1/32 on it, can cast 1/16 ounce t-rigged ned baits a good 80 feet, and easily detect bites at that distance on 8lb braid with a 6lb leader. I was running a Hyabusa light wire EWG 1/0 hook on that combo and there was enough power to set the hook, but enough flex to really play the fish on light line. Biggest bass on the combo so far was a 5 pounder, and I also got a 5 pound dogfish on it as well.
I also have a Phenix Feather 7'-1" ML which is one of the BFS rods that is typically recommended for an ultralight t-rig setup. I like it, but the custom I built completely blows it out of the water in every aspect. Less than half the weight, better sensitivity, better flex profile for fighting fish on light line. It also cost me just a little less than what I paid for the Phenix too. I like it so much I want to buy another to build. I've had guys offer me good money for it after I handed it to them to cast a few times.