Best Surf Fluke Rod Ever? Daiwa 21 Labrax AGS Review - Shore Flounder Fishing

[@nikmar1338]

Hey roger, it’s nik I met you earlier today. After you left I caught my limit in about 20 minutes. I caught a 21.5” fluke which is my pb! I really appreciate the tips you gave me especially about the hook set. Meeting you really made my day hopefully we cross paths again in the future!!

[@CookingandFishing]

Haha that's awesome, congrats!! Persistence pays off - nice meeting you too Nik!

[@IODell]

Great videos. Thanks for posting. I'm assuming Labrax AGS rods are not available in the US. Are you using braid or mono?

[@CookingandFishing]

Thanks! They're available from ebay/JDM websites - PE1 braid to 12lb fluorocarbon leader.

[@idkwhattouseforname]

Your words expressed the feelings between my 2 shore fluking rods pretty well. I love the way my Labrax 90M bends on a fluke but my Labrax 69M is so much more comfortable to use for jigging 4+ hours. damn now im tempted to get a new rod that I dont need

[@CookingandFishing]

I think you will be very happy with the 86ML - as light and fun as my 90ML is...I sort of wished I went for the 86 instead. Oh well, there's always the Branzino AGS to think about haha

[@hwanchoi4117]

Thank you for sharing, Roger. This is another video I saved to my Playlist; deleted John Skinner videos.

[@CookingandFishing]

LOL!!! Thanks Hwan Choi!

[@PaulyV56]

I chuckled as well.

[@fabulousfishing7358]

Nice video Roger! Awesome rod! See next season YOLO!

[@CookingandFishing]

Thanks Dave! I'm happy you embraced the YOLO this year...you deserve it - congrats on your PB again!

[@adamsmith3996]

Very informative. Just curious, have you ever considered targeting fluke with a fly fishing set up. I think it would be interesting.

[@CookingandFishing]

Nah, they'll eat a streamer I know but I have no interest in fly fishing. There are many fun things to do with a spinning/casting rod in my hand before I start unlocking that door - fluke on a popper for instance lol

[@adamsmith3996]

@@CookingandFishing good enough.

[@bilalchaib7833]

Very nice video. I have the old model of this rode. The 96ML labrax ags. 141g for 2m90cm A nice rode. It didn't vibrate on jerkbait. I jse the shimano 14 and 16cm and even the duo tideminnow 175cm. It is confortable no vibrations. And it is a very string rode on catching big fish too.

[@CookingandFishing]

The new Labrax is if anything crisper than the old one - the thing is the jerkbait I'm using is a freshwater bass jerkbait, and I'm working it like a freshwater bass jerkbait, ie snapping it off slack line. The rods designed to do this are usually 6'8 - 7' rods. Any 9ft surf rod will wobble with that technique, 100% your 96ML will wobble worse. The point is it's still workable with the 21 Labrax 90ML that weighs 115g.

[@bilalchaib7833]

may i buy the old one and purshase the 21 new model of this labrax ?

[@bena4072]

Nice video! I use the Dialuna out front vs. rebellion b/c I love leaning back into the hookset as you described. Half the time with the rebellion I feel like the rod/jig are on autopilot w/o me needing to do as much. Longer rod is more fun b/c you can hook a fluke father out and do a fun dramatic hookset. 😊 The tip of my Dialuna broke when I accidentally set up on a big bluefish so I am in the market for a new rod…perfect timing

[@CookingandFishing]

Yup! Very dramatic load up when you rear back and set the hook on a 9fter - very fun. I honestly would recommend the 86ML, that would probably be perfect but no more than the 90ML - keep it light and able to free hand, forget about versatility lol

[@fabulousfishing4688]

Yup no boga! Left it with my striper bag lol Bummer!

[@MZJ1206]

Nice video, after watch this few times, I have decided to buy a Labrax AGS and pair with Daiwa Certate LT4000C. Which size do you think will have better balance with this reel 86ML or 90ML?

[@CookingandFishing]

That reel is heavy enough to balance either 86 or 90ML nicely, but obviously the 86 will balance more tip up regardless.

[@MZJ1206]

Thanks for the reply. I will get 86M rod, I'm excited about next season already. Also,I have sent you an email regarding lessons (for next fluke season) so can you take when you have a chance?

[@saleen12]

Have you seen the Yamagablanks Early For Seabass 93m? Looks like it would be right up your alley. Along with the Shimano Lunamis

[@CookingandFishing]

Already found the one that's perfect for me, so no real interest in another suzuki rod for fluking.

[@saleen12]

@@CookingandFishing what have yall collectively decided is perfect? The labrax? I wanna buy once cry once, I just don't want a 9 footer, hopefully the 86 is as good.

[@jeffberlly868]

Is that grip tape wrapped around the exposed blank between the butt and the reel seat? If so, can you explain its function? Thanks and be well.

[@CookingandFishing]

Yes - to protect the exposed blank from the hard edge of my rod holder.

[@josepharvizzigno4641]

Back to scented Plastics now that the Snapper Blues are a Pain?

[@CookingandFishing]

nah I just ran out of jerkshads that day lol. The keitechs are actually more expensive than gulp!

[@UpLoadz560]

First to watch the best Chanel on KZbin

[@CookingandFishing]

haha TY!

[@saleen12]

Is this rod 380 bucks? I see lower prices, but the pictures are of the last model even though they say 21 Labrax. Very confusing.

[@Matthew41188]

Where would you recommend purchasing hard to find rods like these?

[@CookingandFishing]

I just updated the link in the description - reputable ebay sellers like Asianportalfishing is always a good bet, and for now the yen is still weak enough to make it an incredible deal.

[@Matthew41188]

Hey, thanks for that man. I'm definitely going to look into the 86 like you were saying. I'm located in lacey Township so I think that might be real nice out back and off IBSP.

[@CookingandFishing]

@@Matthew41188 Yeah it would be perfect for the flatter beaches down there - in fact I would look at the 90ML just to squeeze some extra distance out of the rod, but the 86ML will definitely be a tad lighter and better balanced. Just pair it with a 3000MHG or C4000 Shimano and you're good to go.

[@CytoplasmicGoo]

What do you think about the Daiwa Saltist Westcoast Spinning Rod 9'0 (aka light action surf rod), there's a 7'6" and 8'3" version as well. Would you recommend it for a fluke rod?

[@CookingandFishing]

I've never used that rod, but my guess is it would work fine. A rod I have used and would highly recommend is the Zodias 76M.

[@CytoplasmicGoo]

@@CookingandFishing I'll look into it, I really like the Labrax but I don't need my wife nagging me about buying another expensive rod or reel. Lol.

[@CookingandFishing]

@@CytoplasmicGoo That Zodias is all you really need - the Labrax is fun but most of the time I would rather jig with a 7'6

[@ciufonzhou4723]

Hello friend, between 93M/96M vs 93ML/96ML, to move jig and plastic lures between 18 and 30 grams, wich will you recommend? Considering fishing weight around 2kg up to 12kg (chilean seabass). Thank you!

[@JLTFishing]

Nice video! I was planning to get the 96M. You think that would be perfect for flounder fishing?

[@CookingandFishing]

I think if you are only using 1/4 - 3/8oz heads + plastic (less than 1oz total weight), the 86ML and 9ML is what you should get. 96M will take 80% of the fun out of it for me. My old Dialuna was decent, but much more tip heavy than this rod.

[@JLTFishing]

@@CookingandFishing thank you! I’ll get the 9ML and probably going to pair it up with my size 4000 Certate.

[@JLTFishing]

@@CookingandFishing hey bro, just got the 21 Labrax AGS 90ML like yours. I’m thinking about pairing it with my 19 Certate LT 5000 reel. What do you think?

[@CookingandFishing]

@@JLTFishing Nice!! I have the 3000MHG Stella paired to the rod now, and it's pretty perfect. I'd say the 5k Certate would work but probably the 4k would pair better. Try it and see how you like it!

[@JLTFishing]

@@CookingandFishing thanks man! 😊

[@Jack-tn8im]

Hi, would you say that this ML rod has medium or fast action? For instance my 8'6 Lunamis 7-35m has a fast action which is not great for throwing 8g soft plastics.

[@CookingandFishing]

I'd say it's mod-fast.

[@Jack-tn8im]

@@CookingandFishing Thank you.

[@kchanish]

How would you compare this rod to the shimano Lunamis?

[@CookingandFishing]

Well the Lunamis is basically a Poison Adrena blank/tech, and I think it would be pretty close...but hard to imagine the Lunamis being more sensitive than the Labrax AGS. Also, I'm 90% sure the Lunamis (and Adrena) are getting refreshed next year.

[@kchanish]

@@CookingandFishing You just solidified my choice to the Labrax. I was looking for more sensitivity in my next rod. As always roger, your knowledge and insight has been super valuable to this community. Thank you.

[@loklokoppa9255]

This is my first time watching your vid. Excellent. Where are you located btw?

[@CookingandFishing]

Thanks! Based in NJ but will fish out to Long Island.

[@JJ38119]

Any chance to review shimano hard rocker ss vs dawia HRF? I'm hesitant and looking forward to it

[@CookingandFishing]

Nah if you're looking for a 7 - 7'6 rod for fluke get the Zodias 76M and call it a day

[@JJ38119]

@@CookingandFishing But zodias is not sic. If you want to fish in sea water😆 Is there a recommended rod?😆😆😆

[@CookingandFishing]

@@JJ38119 that doesn't matter at all, the frame is both stainless steel and that's what rusts not the ceramic ring. Just spray your rods down with freshwater after a trip, you'll be fine.

[@JJ38119]

What is the reason for not recommending shimano hardrocker? Thinking about buying but there are too few KZbin introductions Thanks u

[@kamelouaret]

Hello , is this rod sensitive , can you feel clearly the bottom with ?

[@CookingandFishing]

Yes.

[@marcovisconti255]

hello labrax ags 90 ml can be suitable for metal jig from 10 to 25 gr. and jerk minnow (max rap 15cm 21 gr.)?

[@CookingandFishing]

100%

[@james-emeryelkin182]

Is there a labrax model that you would recommend for surf casting? I am looking for something in the 9' range to pair with my certate lt 5000d.

[@CookingandFishing]

Not sure what you mean by "surf casting."

[@james-emeryelkin182]

@@CookingandFishing distance is a priority, as is the ability of the rod to take the kind of abuse normally associated with fishing jetties or wading into the surf. Versatility to work smaller bucktails but also pop a few ounces. Striped bass is the primary target. Things you might normally associate with a surf rod. In short, I'm wondering if the labrax line of rods is generally for lighter tackle. Thanks in advance.

[@CookingandFishing]

@@james-emeryelkin182 Yeah these are not striper rods unless you're only catching schoolies. Even then there are probably better options out there. Too many people want one setup to cover fluke through striped bass, and you end up with a rod/reel that is suboptimal for both. Imo this Labrax (and other JDM "suzuki" rods) are good if you want extra distance for fluking, and maybe albies. That's about it.

[@james-emeryelkin182]

@@CookingandFishing I appreciate you sharing that knowledge with me. Thank you kindly

[@davidlee6454]

What do you think about century demon 9 ft vs dialuna9’6? Beside price point

[@CookingandFishing]

The Century Demons I've tried did not seem to justify the cost. That could be the build, however, but even the blank didn't seem that crisp to me. For a dedicated fluke jigging rod I'll take the 22 90ML or 90L Labrax any day. The Dialuna is only good in the 86L or ML lengths; any longer and they start to get tip heavy.

[@pokemaster1234567899]

do you have a favourite spinning rod rod for casting 3/4oz spoons extremely far? I noticed you said a 1/2oz jig + jerkshad gets a little dicey on this rod, even though it’s rated 1/4 - 1.23oz I have light braided line, and a full spool, all I need is a long rod recommendation to get the job done. thanks 👍

[@CookingandFishing]

The 90ML will cast 3/4oz metals perfectly, a jig+trailer is much less aerodynamic than a spoon or diamond jig etc. Generally speaking with metals, you can go right up to the upper lure rating - not so with plugs or plastics.

[@pokemaster1234567899]

@@CookingandFishing excellent, thanks for the reply

[@jaredcarr9910]

What would be your rod recommendation for 1/2 heads ?

[@jaredcarr9910]

let me rephrase with 1/2 oz heads and soft plastics being the money spot.. what power would you recommend ?

[@CookingandFishing]

@@jaredcarr9910 Probably the 9M - what are you fishing for?

[@jaredcarr9910]

Weakfish fluke and right now schoolie size striper all taking a 3/8 and 1/2 oz single jig and jerk shad at the inlets.

[@CookingandFishing]

yeah if you have to launch those weights I would get the 9M instead@@jaredcarr9910

[@gcomprog]

Is 9’6 MH labrax good for fluke fishing?

[@CookingandFishing]

Too heavy - L and ML for fluke jigging.

[@joebussurfcastfishing]

what's the difference between VFC3000XGF and VFC3000MHG?

[@CookingandFishing]

3000MHG is a JDM model - "4k" body, 3k spool. Basically it's the next step up in body size, whereas the 3000XGF (besides a faster gear ratio) has the 2500 body and 3k spool.

[@joshbekah4755]

That branzino ex ags looks insane. Someone please do a review on it. 😂

[@CookingandFishing]

I fished with a friend's...it was rather underwhelming for what it is.

[@ballsofrock]

Was it better but not by much or hands down the labrax is better? ​@@CookingandFishing

[@ballsofrock]

​@@CookingandFishing underwhelmed for what it was? Does that mean it was better, but not by much?

[@louisvuitton8888]

very good Review thankyou very much

[@thc152]

Hi Roger, I m new to using single jig and jerkshad for fluke fishing from the surf and really enjoying it. So far no keeper yet but having lots of fun. I like to ask for your opinion on the St Croix Legend tournament inshore 7’6” M Fast action spinning rod. Any feedback is appropriated.

[@CookingandFishing]

I'm not a fan of Croix and not a fan of "inshore" rods - usually they are heavy for their power rating and slow tapered. If you are throwing 1/4 - 3/8oz jigheads + 6" jerkshads I would get the Zodias 7'6M, or the Tatula Elite 76MML (or the Steez AGS if you want the best in class for that style rod). If you want a longer rod, the Labrax AGS 86ML is a good choice. If you already have the Croix inshore, use it and have fun!

[@MrNum1phoneman]

What do you think about nrx rods?

[@CookingandFishing]

Certain jig and worm models for dragging a jig in freshwater - sure. For fluke jigging? There are better options.

[@MrNum1phoneman]

@@CookingandFishing what do you think is a good rod that light and can get away with using 6in gulp grubs

[@CookingandFishing]

@@MrNum1phoneman From shore? Probably one of the JDM Suzuki rods rated to 45/50g, so the 93 or 96M Labrax etc. It's not a bait I throw from shore, 6" jerk shad gets it done and you can go much lighter in the rod department.

[@MrNum1phoneman]

@@CookingandFishing yes from shore there's so many rods to choose from but I would definitely like the lightest Rod possible

[@CookingandFishing]

@@MrNum1phoneman My advice is use the 6" jerk shad or 5" grub on a 1/4oz - 3/8oz jig head, then you can get the 86ML or 90ML Labrax and have a sub 4oz rod that is well balanced and fun. You can still throw the 6" grub on a 1/4oz head but 3/8oz + 6" grub you probably need to move up in rod power, which means a heavier, tip-forward balance and less fun. 6" grub is overrated anyway.

[@elliotarakanchi5240]

Anyone interested in light tackle finesse fluke fishing from the surf I highly recommend you reach out to Roger for a lesson . He Is truly an expert .

[@josepharvizzigno4641]

Diawas 3000 reels are Shimanos 4000....

[@Jack-tn8im]

What happened to your Dialuna s9,6? Do you prefer the new Daiwa now?

[@CookingandFishing]

I go through quite a few rods for my own curiosity and review purposes - the Dialuna 96M remains a great stick at its price point but this new Labrax 90ML is better in every way. I would say the Dialuna 96M was a bit too much rod for 1/4oz jigs, if I were to get another Dialuna I'd get the 86ML.

[@Jack-tn8im]

@@CookingandFishing Thank you for your response. The only thing that concerns me with the Labrax is the wobble of the mid section as you pull the jig. Not sure I would get used to it. I have been fishing with the Shimano Exsense Genos S90MH/R 8-48g Wild Contact. As much as I love to fish with this rod for the bigger sea bass I would like something a little less aggressive for the smaller 2 or 3kg bass. I also have Shimano Lunamis S8.6M 7-35g, great rod but I need something a little longer to hit the distance on my marks here in the UK. I am glad you made the review of the Labrax I have been thinking about this rod for a while. The wobble I mentioned already makes me a bit apprehensive. Perhaps the M model wouldn't have it but then it is too similar to my Genos power wise. I will rewatch your vid and probably buy it the one you have, the weight is only116g! That is important to me because I use metal jigs 20g to 30g relatively close to the surface and I find the 9' Genos (132g) is much less comfortable then the 8'6 Lunamis (124g). The weight difference is negligible but somehow the Genos is top heavy in comparison. It is all about balance I suppose. I tried heavier reels with it which killed the purpose of having a light weight rod to start with. The Labrax 116g paired vanford c300hg 180g might be the light but powerful tackle combination I am looking for.

[@CookingandFishing]

@@Jack-tn8im if you're talking about the wobble around 7:24 that's popping a jerkbait off slack line, not what the rod is designed for and frankly any Dialuna would vibrate a lot worse doing the same - overall the Labrax has a much crisper blank than the Dialuna. I'm sure you saw the new Dialuna launched at the Japan show, but afaik the blank remains the same, they did lighten it somewhat. The new Vanquish could be up your alley. That Stella line lay actually makes a difference in casting distance. Also your braid choice can matter a lot when it comes to distance - YGK Upgrade x8 in PE1 has served me well.

[@Jack-tn8im]

@@CookingandFishing Thank you for the explanation. I have the Shinamo Genos S90MH and Lunamis S8'6 M plus two travel rods, so not that extensive experience with rods in general. Hence I didn't quite know what to think about the wobble so I am glad you made this clear. The only rod I had from Daiwa was a Team Daiwa TDX match (float rod) some 25 years ago when I was a kid. A beautiful rod indeed. When I saw your review of your nephew's Labrax and recently the new model I thought I should give a shot to Daiwa again. It's on its way from Japan ETA the 3rd of February. Exciting time but I will not be able to use it until May when the sea water temperature here on the south east coast of UK goes again over 10c. February, March and April water being too cold and sea bass is not coming till late May. Patience is not one of my favourite virtues 😂

[@Jack-tn8im]

@@CookingandFishing The braid I use is Sufix 131 PE 0.8