Daiwa Presso AIR AGS 61LB: The Best JDM Trout BFS Rod? (BFS Fishing)

In this video, Daiwa Presso AIR AGS 61LB: The Best JDM Trout BFS Rod? (BFS Fishing), Hobie-Wan Kenobi does some initial testing of the Daiwa Presso AIR AGS 61LB BFS trout rod and also discusses important tips to consider when selecting BFS rods.
Digitaka Discount Code: K63
Link to Daiwa Presso AIR AGS: www.digitaka.com/items/4/6/6/...
Rod Specifications:
Length: 6'1" (1.85m)
Pieces: 2
Weight: 52gr (1.8oz)
Lure Rating: 1.5-5gr
Line Rating: 2-5lb
I got this rod to use mostly for bluegill and trout fishing in lakes. I wanted a rod similar to the Daiwa Gekkabijin AIR AGS 60XUL BFS rod but, with more power. The Daiwa Presso AIR AGS is two power classes higher yet, has lighter line and lure ratings. Be sure to watch the part where I explain how to use ratings, descriptions and other information to find the perfect rod for you.
With the Shimano Aldebaran BFS XG, the Presso/Aldebaran BFS weigh a total of 6.4oz. This is the lightest setup I have used at this length.
The rod is responsive and very sensitive for the limited testing I have done so far. Be sure to follow me on Instagram to see updated information as I post it.
Lures Used:
Jackson Kanade
Daiwa Lupin Spoon
Eurotackle Micro Finesse Tungsten Jig with Metacraw
Rapala Countdown Elite 55
From Daiwa:
~ The world of under 200g area tackle ~
We aimed for a one-of-a-kind usability.
As a result of thorough usability, we achieved under 50g with the rod alone. (excluding 61 LB). It is possible to simply make a light rod, but it is difficult to make it light without sacrificing usability and strength. However, Daiwa's rod production know-how easily overcame such a difficult mission. Casting, lure operation, hanging performance, landing performance...Without sacrificing any basic performance. Combined with lightweight reels such as PRESSO reels and EXIST, the total tackle weight is under 200g. The door to a new area trout world that cannot be returned once picked up is now opened.

[@elwooddestiny11blues20]

You have by far the most detailed BFS channel on youtube Hobie Wan . Its a great looking rod and sounds like a pleasure to use . Well done . You smashed it out the park with that review .

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Thank you. I am glad you enjoyed the video.

[@seeforever77]

Nice review and it really helps a buyer know what he’s getting. My next bfs rod will be mostly a crappie/perch jig rod. Good info to digest.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I find this format is better than the hype stuff people make these days. I didn't find fish but, my lakes have over 12" of ice still so, Lake Superior was my best option 😂

[@geoffreyschulman9037]

The casting just came in for me along with the spinning. Amazing rods with parabolic bend past fast tip and can’t wait for trout season. Dedicated ultralight jig rods! For distance I’d go with 2lb flouro over braid.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I have been loving this rod for bluegill!!! I have caught a few trout with it though 😂

[@QUEEROSEXUAL-GENDERMANCER]

Damn bruh your camera is top notch. Probably the clearest fishing vids that i've seen on youtube.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I try to deliver the best content I can to the viewer. The viewer deserves quality use of their time and me taking the time to edit and present the best information I can is definitely worth the extra effort.

[@percussionalobsecration6178]

Great video. I have never been into trout fishing, but caught my first ones today. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources did their Rainbow trout stock in a lake about 10 miles from my home, so I had to give it a shot. I caught my 5 fish limit with the biggest about 15" and the smallest around 12". The gear used was my Old18 7' UL rod with the 22 Shimano Aldebaran bfs and 1/16 oz rooster tail lures. I can see how that rod would be a blast to catch them on, as it seams to be very light action. Now for some tasty trout tomorrow!!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Congrats on your trout! Sounds like it was a fun day. I agree, this rod would be a blast to catch them. Stocked trout that get caught a lot can be pretty tricky to catch.

[@hafizanzahari159]

Nice review man, keep up the good work😁, long time not seeing you uploading video 😔bfs tackle i used recently was abu garcia ltx bf8 with abu garcia eradicator bfs rod 😬

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yeah. Winter is very long for me so, filming is limited. I am glad you watched and thanks for sharing your fishing tackle.

[@hafizanzahari159]

@@HobieWanKenobi most welcome man 😬

[@captainrylenaviation29]

Great Vids. I have that rod in spinning. Great rod. You might like the abu garcia baitfiness eradicator slow taper special. Tat rod is special

[@HobieWanKenobi]

This rod is nice. I think for my type of fishing I would prefer a faster action.

[@ingremaudalain]

Bonsoir et merci pour cette très bonne vidéo de présentation ..une bien jolie canne casting bfs .. un look sympa le blank semble très sensible et les anneaux carbone c'est top . Hâte d'avoir vos impressions sur la tenue du poisson ...Cordialement , Alain de France .

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I am looking forward to catching many fish with this rod. As always, thank you for watching!

[@vandn100]

Thanks for info! I think,Presso will be fine with cranks too... but,waiting for your test. And,what the model of Gekka you have? Thanks! Oh,yes,about KKR...I see,you're often change brakes,is that spool feels nervous for you?I just tryed with braid,and it's too picky and censitive to brake adjustment in my hands.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I like the KKR spool. It was my first time testing it and I was still finding the spools limits. I have the 60XUL Gekkabijin Rod. I show the specs in the video.

[@vandn100]

@@HobieWanKenobi Thank you!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@vandn100 No problem

[@bigbaitbattalion4036]

Hey man got a question for you if you don’t mind. I fish mainly largemouth, stocked rainbow trout that can be on the larger side, white bass and other panfish. I am thinking the curado bfs with dobyns 700 is the combo I need to grab, but I’m worried it would be too much for trout. Any recommendations for a rod that can kind of split the difference? Thanks.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I feel the Dobyns 700c is too much for panfish and some trout. If your trout are about 15" and up, it could work with mono or FC. I don't like the rod much for panfish regardless of the size. I personally would get two different setups, as you would be forcing a compromise on all sides to get one rod to make it work. If your bass are smaller, you may find a rod to do it all but, you will still hook into a typical bass and wish you had more backbone. Hook into a trout or panfish and want a softer rod.

[@darrenconway-hy8bx]

Nice video, can anyone on here recommend a way of cleaning/flushing the spool bearings on the Aldebaran bfs 22 ? I'm worried that using solvent on the rubber o rings will damage them. Are the o-rings removable? they look so delicate I'm wary of trying. How often do you clean your bearings, if at all?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

You can use dish soap and hot water. The o ring is removable but, you always run the risk of breaking the o ring

[@darrenconway-hy8bx]

@@HobieWanKenobi Thanks! 👍

[@jamesmjychang3440]

How do the ags compare to the cardiff native special 5’4 UL? I have the cardiff and im debating between the Ags or yamaga blank blue runner for my 2nd rod

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I think the AGS has a little less backbone. The handle is slightly longer too.

[@JoeTK37]

Did you say mono with the KKR spool? How is that working out so far? I'd rather run a 4# mono but I was trying to stick with PE to avoid any issues

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yes, 4lb mono. Be sure to wind the line with little pressure and do not fill the spool. I have never had an issue with spool damage doing this method.

[@JoeTK37]

@@HobieWanKenobi Awesome, I'll give it a shot. Thank you

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Also, do not tighten the drag down super tight and reel in big fish 😂

[@user-hi8fb9oy3j]

Привет дружище 🤚. Планируешь купить катушку Daiwa SS AIR TW? Что скажешь про неё?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

It's going to be interesting to see how the braking system compares to the current Daiwa AIR braking system. It isn't out yet and more info when it is closer to release.

[@arnemueller2112]

Nice rod although it looks a bit awkward with this missing butt cap. My main concern with these AGS guides is the fragility paired with lacking service parts. These rods need to be „babied“. Do you have any supplies for guide repairs in the US? I heard you have to send the rod to Japan for repair. This is a no go for me.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I have never had an issue. There are AGS guides available in the Asian market. I would repair myself. Shipping to and from Japan would be expensive.

[@oscher8249]

@@HobieWanKenobi any plans on reviewing the Daiwa Gekkabin AIR AGS 60XUL BFS rod ? Interested in your opinion on that particular rod. Thanks, appreciate the great informative content.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yes. I didn't get around to it last season. It's a fun rod to use and I have caught quite a few nice bluegill with it.

[@ichphan]

You missed out on the Diawa Presso Bait casting reel. Rhe reel is very light

[@HobieWanKenobi]

They are overpriced for what they are. Modern BFS reels blow it out of the water. Inflated prices are because it's more of a collector's item.

[@leuleu1954]

How dow u thing about zephyr, it's good ?? And beter than slx bfs??

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Zephyr is good for the money but, the SLX BFS is better.

[@LoganWolf1984]

What BFS rod would you recommend for streams that have both small mouth and trout? I tend to catch both on trout baits.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

What size smallmouth and trout? I generally come across smallies less than 10in when fishing waters that have both so, I just ignore them as a factor for rod choice.

[@LoganWolf1984]

@HobieWanKenobi Small trout and Smallies around 2lbs but have caught one in the 3lb range at one stream I fish.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That's much bigger than my average stream bass 😂. Fiberglass rod may give you more versatility but, isn't ideal for using jigs unless you swim them.

[@Fishingmissions827]

Hear me out I was thinking on buying a BFS rod for bass is this to light of a rod for bass? I feel like trout fight harder but I’m just gonna be throwing 2g Ned’s and 2g jigs

[@HobieWanKenobi]

If you are catching smaller pond size bass, this rod would be a blast... especially if you want the ride of your life. If around weeds and such, id go with something with a little more backbone. Read below and I can help you find a rod: What size fish? Weeds, cover or open water? Preferred length? Price range?

[@tommylagebro6865]

​@@HobieWanKenobi so maybe perfect for Swedish perch.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The lighter ones for sure

[@johntownend5416]

Does the rod load up with 1g casting weight?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yes, especially when distance casting

[@skeeterboy77]

Ive got a Presso reel that would look bitch on that rod..

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I thought about getting a Presso reel just to match but...that's an expensive idea

[@fairladyz9957]

Man do they have this exact rod with the rest of the handle

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Nope 😂. After fishing it quite a bit for big bluegill, the rear handle is a non factor.