Finesse Fishing Rods & Reels | Buyer's Guide

Do you enjoy throwing that drop shot, tube, ned rig, senko, etc? This video is for you! From affordable budget rods to top of the line combos, we'll show you some great options to help take your finesse fishing to the next level!
Finesse is one of the few applications where we really stress spending as much as your budget will allow on the rod. If you have to save, save on the reel. Sensitivity is key when finesse fishing and there really is a difference between the various price points of fishing rods.
The Rods from high-end to Budget Rods...
G Loomis NRX 852C: bit.ly/2hedqsq
Megabass Destroyer Addermine: bit.ly/2B7NyFj
G Loomis GLX 853C: bit.ly/2gqziwT
G Loomis GLX 852S: bit.ly/2A6HH3O
G Loomis GLX DSR 820S: bit.ly/2A6HH3O
Shimano Expride 7' Medium: bit.ly/2osaj3q
Dobyns Champion Extreme 742: bit.ly/29OVnDa
Shimano Zodias 7' Medium: bit.ly/2jOUXAO
Shimano Zodias 7' Medium Light: bit.ly/2jOUXAO
Dobyns Fury 702 Spinning: bit.ly/2e7HZPF
The Reels Matt Recommends...
Shimano Exsence 3000: bit.ly/2iMtscV
Shimano Ultegra 2500: bit.ly/2nfApml
Shimano Stradic CI4+: bit.ly/2gu84t7
Shimano Aldebaran 50 Casting Reel: bit.ly/2fdX1Uy
The Spinning Reels Tim Recommends...
Daiwa Luvias Air: bit.ly/2jllD06
Daiwa Certate: bit.ly/2hjRZXg
Shimano Sustain FI 2500: bit.ly/2v5ovAm
Braided Line...
Power Pro MaxCuatro: bit.ly/2clBRiQ
Power Pro Hi-Vis: bit.ly/2g9c2GV
Sufix 832: bit.ly/2ae93Ji
Sunline SX-1: bit.ly/2tn8EzQ
Leader/Fluorocarbon...
Sunline Sniper Fluorocarbon: bit.ly/2p7fxju
Sunline Assassin Fluorocarbon: bit.ly/2h4LNjm
AbrazX: bit.ly/2aaBBDX
Maxima UltraGreen: bit.ly/2ae97J9
Rod Sleeves...
The Rod Glove: bit.ly/2vnwYip
________________________________________________________________
Need Apparel?
Get Tacticalbassin Gear (Hats, Hoodies, Sunshirts): Email [e-mail] for details.
Sun Mask: bit.ly/2vgSsh4
Sun Shirt w/ Hood: bit.ly/2vgTOst
Light Fishing Pants: bit.ly/2foDx10
Horizon Sweater (Water resistant, great for layering): bit.ly/2gTC1oB
Anhydrous Rain Jacket: bit.ly/2uIWf5V
Anhydrous Rain Bib: bit.ly/2xxLDbW
_________________________________________________________________
Equipment We Recommend...
Favorite Pliers: bit.ly/2tfxFvw
Favorite Split Ring Pliers: bit.ly/2fT4Qw0
Favorite Wire Cutters: bit.ly/2soB34k
Favorite life jacket: bit.ly/2odXXIP
Favorite sunglasses: bit.ly/2glE3eN
Hero5 Camera: bit.ly/2iwZqqU
ElectroSamson Scale: bit.ly/2f7QgQ9
Promar Net: bit.ly/2dh9xQP
________________________________________________________________
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[@FishingWithYakPak]

I feel that I learn like, at least 30 new things every time I watch you guys. 👊🏼😁

[@tacticalbassin]

Awesome glad the videos are helping!

[@testme504]

Man!! How have these guys not hit 100K yet. I hope by this time next year we will be at 250K. You guys put so much time an effort in your videos an it shows. Loving the bids as always. Tight lines brothers

[@testme504]

Bids? Meant Vids

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@Gio-nl7eg]

you were right all along :o

[@testme504]

@Westsidesnooker 2020 We in this Bitch!! Still sad that the Googans have over a million like WTH? Still the best #bassfishing channel by farrrrrr

[@christopher1195]

They are over 500k now!! These boys are killing it!

[@jj1154_]

Could you guys please do a video on how to properly clean our reels? Would be awesome!

[@andrewwolf4963]

That Suffix 832 tied to flouro with an Alberto knot is honestly the most beautiful leader I’ve ever seen.

[@wanabpro001]

You guys are fricken awesome, period. You help us open our minds to different aspects, and then you teach us all so effortlessly..

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you!

[@MLeGrue]

Thank you for all of the information, as always. Great channel!

[@awesomeness890]

I’ve been working on watching my rod deflection since your last video. Crazy how much it helps with hooks ups, and keeping up with where your baits at in the water, and keeping it in the strike zone! Helps a lot!!:) Appreciate you guys!!

[@tacticalbassin]

Awesome!! Glad its helping Shane

[@awesomeness890]

TacticalBassin you two really are the best on KZbin when it comes to fishing content!:) Thank you!!

[@normanwillsie5145]

I want to thank you guys for these kind of videos. Unlike the pros who are selling their products I trust your recommendations.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you! We're happy to help.

[@victorxavier9977]

Perfect timing I'm putting together a drop shot/ finesse setup as we speak...thanks!

[@tacticalbassin]

+Victor Xavier Awesome what are combo are you thinking?

[@decoyn-7782]

I also use the DX742 with a Stradic CI4, sometimes I switch out to a Daiwa Aegis 2506. Either way it's an excellent setup, easily one of my top 3 used combos.

[@unseenoutdoors]

Still looking for that how to get started on being a fishing guide video. Love the videos guys.

[@tacticalbassin]

That will be a video for Matt. I can tell you its not easy and always having to produce fish for clients can be stressful. - Tim

[@zachshott7833]

Great video fellas, got my TB fix in before work this morning.

[@tacticalbassin]

LOL thank you

[@sunwukongmonkeyking5561]

Hell yeah just got up and a new tactical bassin video in the morning. My day just started and this video made my day even better. Thank you for making video and please keep making more! The most under rated best bass information in KZbin. I actually like it better with the low subscribers so only I can know all your technique to myself and catch all those fish. If too many people watch your video then it's going to be less fish for me. Lol like if you agree.

[@tacticalbassin]

LOL! Well good morning

[@baitnboujee4369]

Great video, I really learned a lot and it makes me want to step my finesse game up

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks!

[@ohio_tuner_garage]

I'm a big band loyalist when it comes to rods. As I know what to expect with the rods I buy. With that said I love the weight and sensitivity of Kistler Rods. The Stradic Ci4+ on a Helium 3 is the lightest, most sensitive combo I have ever felt. I also enjoy the KLX series rods with the Okuma Helios SX or Lew's Custom Pro reels

[@30minfisherman40]

Great video guys thanks I really need to step up my finesse game for sure

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks!

[@jayhawk541]

a video on DC reels would be cool. Loving the vids!

[@mikeg5523]

As always, great video guys.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Mike!

[@honkeykong85]

You guys are awesome! Also,that intro is straight 🔥 🔥 🔥!

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you!!

[@thegreatfishingadventure2594]

Awesome video guys! Y'all always give great information! -Eddie

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Eddie! Merry Christmas

[@Interp66]

Thank you for the great information!

[@tacticalbassin]

No problem!

[@FishingBuddiesAcademy]

Good vdo guys. Healthy discussion and full of information. Keep it up with your good work. Merry Christmas

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you! Merry Christmas!

[@kenmaylin4744]

i found 2 mega bass spinning rods today that I fell in love with! a little sticker shock at first, but I'll get them.

[@acdarb]

Hey guys- great video. Thank you! How long of a flouro leader do you tie on when you are drop shotting?

[@charlesrichardson3463]

Great video Matt and Tim we need some old school story time on old-school tactics and how you guys got started in the bass fishing anyways great job keep it up guys

[@tacticalbassin]

We can do that.

[@shaunroberts9361]

OUTSTANDING for sure. Thank you Guys..

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Shaun!

[@weouchhere9338]

This was so helpful, thanks!

[@tacticalbassin]

No problem!

[@stephenolson6486]

Been looking at the st croix avid medium light six to seven foot spinning rod with diawa ballistic lt your input would be welcome

[@mikeweller326]

this whole buyers guide deal is great

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you!

[@Michaelb2127]

Awesome video thanks for the tips

[@tacticalbassin]

We're happy to help!

[@fishon8310]

You guys are my wife's worst nightmare! Every time I watch a video my wallet wants to jump out of my pocket!

[@tacticalbassin]

LOL!

[@jamesstanley7796]

Any experience with temple fork rods? I never hear y'all talk about them

[@beardedbassprojekt6639]

James, I have a TFO Gary Loomis tactical cranking rod and it is a blast to fish with, the one I have is supposed to be a 7'9" medium mod-fast but it'll handle things almost like a medium heavy rod, works flawless for bigger cranks, spinnerbaits, chatterbaits and small umbrella rigs. Used it also for 90 size whopper ploppers and it id wonders keeping fish pegged. Hope it helps.

[@fishinginthecity2375]

Yeah i either run to the Lake to fish ,just knowing ill figure em out or to the store just to get a couple things,$100 later!

[@fishgonewildbptwerkstar2879]

Good thanks just what I was needing answers too.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thats what we like to hear!

[@rdking58]

I know this is a video but this is one reason why I'm a big fan of Tactical Bassin and you two guys. I'm upgrading my spinning rod and reel finally, not crazy upgrade but more then what I have now. I knew somewhere in you guys video library there was one on rods. I have reel and I needed that one rod to match it with. Great info as always, stay safe.

[@rdking58]

Old video etc...

[@tacticalbassin]

We're so glad you found it! We just passed the 1000 video mark... there is a video on ALMOST every topic 👍

[@MonsterChuck]

First off.... you guys are easily the BEST and most informative fishing channel on KZbin. I am not sure how you don't have more subscribers but keep at it and you are going to blow up. Second... I would like to see you guys review a 13 Fishing reel. Honestly anything from their Inception up in the line would be great. The reason I would like to know your opinion is because I tested out a Shimano Aldebaran and a Lew's Team Pro Magnesium (about $700 in reels) through the Tackle Warehouse demo program. I was more impressed with the Lew's but I prefer my 13 Fishing Inception reels over both of them. I am so impressed with the Inception, I have purchased a couple of them and even pre-ordered the Concept Z. Something about these reels feels solid to me and allow me to cast further than even the more expensive reels I have demoed.

[@tacticalbassin]

Its tough because everyone has a different opinion. I've fished the Concept A's and C's quite a bit. I just didn't fall in love with them enough to make a purchase. They just didn't stand out to me... but that's just one guy's opinion. -Matt

[@dickiehoskins9835]

Great video fellas you guys are awsome and great fisherman. I learn alot

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you!

[@dickiehoskins9835]

TacticalBassin you guys are on my bucket list to fish with

[@bartbell5778]

Very informative as always. Question: I notice you have not included St. Qroix rods in your arsenal. Any reason or just not a fan versus the Dobyns.

[@gdavish]

Great video

[@HuntStewTV]

is there an advantage to having a longer rod when using a spinning reel?

[@MrSmokeingood]

I just picked up a daiwa tatula elite n paired it daiwa exceler LT, digging the set up I snagged a bass with a shaky head earlier, was going to get the zodias but the tatula felt lighter and more sensitive to me

[@NguyeningOutdoors]

Would that GLoomis 852 spinning be good for drop shot and ned rig shore fishing?

[@jayrough1413]

I am fairly new to fishing and I just bought the stradic ci4+ I plan on finesse fishing alot this year what is a great sensitive rod to help me out

[@su3154]

Tim and matt, for strictly dropshotting 3/16, 1/4 oz what rod do you prefer. 701 dobyns extreme or 702 dobyns extreme

[@NFiltr8Red]

Got invited to fish Clear Lake for the first time and I bought me a Daiwa Exist 3000 paired with a Steez AGS 7’ MF. I literally fished all day and didn’t even feel tired at all. Grabbed one of my host’s rod and damn it weighed a ton. You get what you pay for, I always say go all out or nothing.

[@rwc408]

Did you guys ever fish the Savvy series before they discontinued it? Can get a 702sf for real cheap but heard the sensitivity was an issue with that line

[@rwc408]

Have you guys had a chance to fish Phenix Maxim spinning rod at all?

[@h3adhunt3r69]

Matt !,dale hollow is my hometown lake man!! Wish we could have fished together! Tight lines man

[@bryanfolkens290]

Matt or Timm what's your thoughts on Ducketts? Was thinking of getting a Micro Magic Spinning 7'0" Medium Light.

[@richshackelford5793]

Great video guys.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Rich

[@SHERINSATHAR]

Pls suggest best spinning rod for inshore casting to catch max 25 pound

[@h3adhunt3r69]

Off topic guys but if you had to buy one jerk bait rod that was in the 100-200 range with would you choose. I fish mostly 110 ,110 jr s and the rerange on 12 p line halo with a 13 fishing concept a reel ( which is crap) but I paid so much for that reel I still try to use it lol. Thanks guys

[@jimschollhammer5270]

Choosing between the 853 and 893 for all around fishing which would you recommend. I mainly fish 10 inch worms and 1/2 oz to 3/4 oz jigs but can only afford one high end rod...I am only 5 ' 6" , not sure if that makes a difference but some say short people are better with shorter rather than longer rods..... your thoughts please

[@ChaseFlutyFishing]

i love this channel thanks for the info

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you!

[@benmclaughlin5496]

Is a ci4+ good enough for 10 lb braid

[@BassQuest]

Love the new intro guys. Sweet editing

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks bud! Its probably about time for another one.

[@BassHopesAndDreams]

would you prefer a medium or medium heavy in the glx for wacky

[@corefishing4858]

Have you guys ever fished Lake Mead? If not can you come do a show on it? Would be amazing with your knowledge

[@mattmatthews9517]

What casting rod would you recommend under 200?

[@W1Z4RDCUDI]

Hey guys just wondering what the warranty is for megabass rods. Can’t find anything on the website. Also it’s in Japanese

[@bafishing8796]

Awsome video guys. Like the information

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks man!

[@visailor5951]

Hey Matt/Tim great video. Just wondering if you guys fished the Caius. Im planning to buy a new combo (budget angler) for finesse/jerk bait/topwater(poppers) fishing and I was just wondering if the caius is a good reel for casting smaller baits. Here's what my combo could be Rod: Shimano Exage - 6'10 medium Reel: Shimano Caius 151 Line: 30lb suffix 832 - 10lb mono leader

[@29kwik]

Would you guys prefer the Megabass Destroyer Addermine or the NRX 852 spinning rod if you had to pick one?

[@jbach711able]

Right on about the mono, most water in the country isn't clear enough to justify fluor, and with braid, mono increases landing rates with more stretch and stronger knot strength. Another honest, informative video.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks bud!

[@tomkraft1769]

Do you guys think I can throw a 1/16 ounce Marabou jig (w/o trailer) on the new 7'3" M/L Expride B? Also looking at the St. Croix 7'10" Victory and Ark Reinforcer. Please help. Thanks. I enjoy the site and vids.

[@nawinchester]

Hey guys, I need a little help. I can't find anything on the "google machine" so I thought I would just ask you. I have two spinning rods, both are 1/8 to 3/8 oz rated, but one is a med light power xf action and the other is a medium power XF action. What is the difference in these two rods from a "fishability" (if that is a word) standpoint? Thank you and look forward to your reply.

[@mikebirling9659]

Hi do you know when the new line up of nrx casting rod comes to the market Best regards Mike from sweden

[@robertjacobsfishing]

I grew up fishing 10lb Maxima green and till today have a very big soft spot for that line. Landed hundreds of fish in quite a few different species, fresh and saltwater.

[@tacticalbassin]

Its such a great line!

[@dj80d6]

great vid thanks guys

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks for watching!

[@richgebhardt7960]

Would the Exage be a good rod?

[@kvolo12]

Matt talking about his Tennessee trip got me thinking that I would love a video about traveling with rods and gear on airplanes. Tips regarding proper storage for the trip and (hopefully) keeping the price down when bringing multiple 7'+ rods would be great!

[@tacticalbassin]

Great idea! To be honest, we don't travel with them. We pre-ship all of our rods in GIANT tubes. All of the tackle, reels, line, etc...either gets checked or carried on.

[@kvolo12]

I appreciate the reply! I had a feeling it may be cheaper to pre-ship them. Fortunately I still have a couple of the heavy duty cardboard tubes Tackle Warehouse ships rods in that I could use.

[@hendrickgaming1552]

Is the 7’5” as good as 7’1” GLX? Please let me know I’m gonna buy one first time to buy High end rod so excited 😆

[@danielwalker5985]

Is that Dobyns 742 medium light???

[@TheJhmorgan]

I would love to see you guys travel just a bit more south than tennesse and check out laurel lake in London Ky.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thats a couple hours north of us... We've passed it quite a few times and the day will definitely come that we finally get to stop.

[@BriNbigD]

Could you guys review some Wally World cheap rods? I'm retired military and can't spend $400 on anything. I know you're affiliated with TW, but I would really appreciate your opinion on budget basement equipment.

[@jasoneric5969]

Love the Channel

[@alfonsopreciado903]

I LIVE IN MEXICO I'M WATCHIN YOURS FISHING VIDEOS. I LOVE FISHING ALL DAYS IN THE MORNIG SALT WATER & SWEET WATER. WHAT CAN I DO BYE ROD & REEL WOTH YOU

[@empiricalfishing1187]

do you ever use phenix rods?

[@fishing4reel479]

Hope to see a creature, crawfish video before you guy's are done with this series! Always love your videos!👊💥

[@tacticalbassin]

We will add it to the list. Thanks!

[@full_metal2452]

Which Shimano Ci4+ model though???

[@ricardoborralho9421]

The dobyns fury is a great rod?

[@rickybudeanu3002]

What do you guys think of phenix rods? The phenix k2 in medium light for finesse. Not sure if you’re aware of this brand, big on the west coast.

[@realjeffgarrett]

Are the E6X rods worth the money? I rarely, if ever, see you recommend them. I know of you guys are gonna buy a Loomis rod, it’s probably the higher end, but explaining a $500 NRX to my wife would be difficult. I’ve looked at the 6’ 10” drop shot rods. Not sure if mag lt or mag med would be best

[@andrewwolf4963]

i love you guys i watch every video at least 4 times , mainly cuz i use you guys to fall asleep every night lol but i have 1 critique when you discuss rods you always tell us 742 or 802 etc then you click the link and it takes you to the whole line up and i have to go figure out which one it is lol can you start saying 7 ft ML everytime you do a lot but not always

[@reeltalkfishing7692]

I'm going to buy a new spinning soon...need to stay in the $200 price point. Probably a 7 ft medium...whats best between the new 2020 Zodias and New Megabass Levante?

[@Roboworm99]

What about small finesse crankbaits or shad raps like the SR5 do you use spinning or casting rods. If so which models

[@tacticalbassin]

No we use these 1. Dobyns 704 CB - bit.ly/29OVD4V 2. G- Loomis Imx Pro Crank 845 - bit.ly/2og0BmK

[@mattstringer4966]

Can you guys do an updated one of these

[@frankbradley4487]

Clear Lake is my main lake and my main bait I use on it Creature Baits. I would love a buyers guide on what baits of these I should use just as much as Brush Hogs and Sweet Beavers. Thanks a lot!

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Frank! We are running out of time but can definitely add that one to the list.

[@mcaetano2000]

Can you make a bluegill baits buyer's guide? In most of the lakes I fish, pumpkinseed sunfish (and crawdads) is the main prey of bass. Can you make more videos about fishing bluegill/sunfish lakes, specifically for trophy bass? You have a video about bluegill imitating baits, but I would like to watch an updated one, and specifically about catching big bass.

[@MrRourk]

Daiwa Presso Vega .6g Spoon - Mocha Black or Nightmare Color.

[@jacobmiller9292]

How much lighter in action does the 701 feel from the 702 Dobyns? I love the 702 but I want to try a 701 for light dropshots

[@tacticalbassin]

The 701 is extremely light tip. It is quite a bit lighter than the 702

[@dustinjelliff3564]

Hey guys, great video. I’m looking for a Destroyer primarily for Ned rigging. I’m thinking Brigand or Flyssa... which spinning rod out of their lineup would you recommend? I’ll be fishing out to 25’ or so in clear water. Thanks for the help!

[@tacticalbassin]

Just got the Flyssa and I (Tim) really like it. bit.ly/2B7NyFj

[@simplecircuit]

"Don't touch them if you can't afford them" is the best advice in this entire video.

[@tacticalbassin]

For sure!!

[@FishHuntFreedom]

Can you do a “top 5 baits for pond anglers”? From bank or kayak/John boat

[@tacticalbassin]

Definitely

[@Hiei1029]

Santa Claus is bringing me the new daiwa tatula lt 2500 spinning reel. Suppose to be competition to the CI4. Which I also own two of them 2500 on my glx 6’8” medium XF. Freaking love it. Then a 3000 on. 6’8” MH fast cumara rod. Love it. The new daiwa is for the mojo bass med lite Xf. That’s a nice cheaper rod. Love these rods. I have old GLX rods from when Gary still own the company with the titanium bendable guides. Those rods are just cheating lol. You feel everything with them. Mud sand wood rocks weeds.....fish. You know exactly what you are feeling.

[@tacticalbassin]

Those are the same GLX's in this video. Ive had them for years and love em.

[@davidskinner4017]

I typically throw a lot of 1/8oz shakey heads or light Texas rigs but I’m not very comfortable with spinning rods. What is your recommendations for rods?

[@tacticalbassin]

Depends completely on budget but the best rod you can afford in a "3" power rod (Medium).

[@jerrettkw]

Real ratio for ned rig?

[@aaronyork7837]

Do a video on chatter bait rods and reels

[@brandonbaldwin7916]

Can you please do a video on lure colors and why you choose them at different times of the year and at different water temps

[@tacticalbassin]

It really is a matter of what your fish are eating and not water temp. Keep it simple with these colors 1. crawdad/crayfish 2. Shad or baitfish 3. Ghost or clearer color for clear water 4. Chartreuse or brighter color for stained or muddy water.

[@travisgonsalvesfishing9569]

So I'm new to the north valley any way you guys can do a video on how to fish a lake with tough conditions like super low water level that raises a few feet every week like Oroville?

[@tacticalbassin]

Watch any/all of our older finesse/winter videos. They're all shot with Oroville in mind.

[@drumandball]

It cracks me up when you guys say "it's great for the price point" while referring to a ~$300+ shimano expride lol. It better be heaven in a stick for that much! Sincerely, A poor college student

[@tacticalbassin]

Ha! Sorry Bud! On a positive note... that thing is kind of heaven in a stick. LOL

[@3spressoShot]

its relative, you know

[@stephenolson6486]

Is this a good combo

[@matthewpriestley7202]

Just a quickie, why the GLX 853 over the NRX but then the NRX 852 instead of the GLX 852 ? Thanks

[@tacticalbassin]

Not over the Nrx 853 we just dont have that model in the Nrx. We cant afford to buy every model lol. GLX's are SWEET but the Nrx's are out of this world.