How to Order Fishing Tackle From Japan, Ordering BFS Reels from Digitaka

***UPDATED Digitaka Discount Code: 79J
www.digitaka.com/
In this video, "How to Order Fishing Tackle From Japan, Ordering BFS Reels from Digitaka", Hobie-Wan Kenobi goes over how to order reels and rods safely from Japan and a few tips to save money as well.
I have been using Digitaka for a few years to order Japanese fishing tackle. Digitaka is a supporter of this channel and I encourage you to at least consider them when purchasing JDM products. The continued efforts by Digitaka and all you viewers is what allows me to do the in-depth reviews on fishing tackle that you all love.
A good majority of quality fishing tackle, including BFS gear is available in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). These pieces of fishing tackle usually have to be purchased from a Japanese retailer or, gambling ordering from eBay. I go over some money saving tips such as avoiding PayPal currency conversion fees (4.5% of purchase price as of now) and factors to accurately compare prices between fishing retailers.
Links to some JDM Gear That I Use:
Daiwa Gekkabijin AIR TW: www.digitaka.com/items/4/4/2/...
Daiwa Silver Creek AIR TW: www.digitaka.com/items/4/4/2/...
Daiwa Silver Creek Glass Progressive: www.digitaka.com/item/4/6/6/4...
Shimano Aldebaran BFS:
www.digitaka.com/items/5/4/2/...
I hope this video was helpful to you!!!!

[@dcrane4]

Hey man I just wanted to say thanks for taking them time to make videos that help bfs newcomers like me.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

No problem! There was a time I didn't know all this stuff. Me not sharing would be a disservice to you all who are getting into JDM gear.

[@I_Am_Squirrel685]

Digitaka has been one of the best online retailers I have ever bought from. They ship amazingly fast considering how far they are from NA. The packaging is so nice that I have to sit and admire it sometimes. The best part is they respond to questions and issues fast as well. Had an issue with a shipment that wasn't their fault and the fixed it for me within the week. Always recommend them. Sometimes I just browse everything they have to see cool things in the JDM market.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

It will always baffle me how fast they can ship a reel across the globe. Good to hear about them fixing that situation for you, even though it wasn't their fault.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

UPDATED CODE AS OF 09/08/23: 79J Thank you all for watching and supporting. If you have ordered from Digitaka, please share your experiences in the comment section to help other people.

[@ShaneJMcNair]

Because of you... 🤣 I think my first JDM purchase was an Original JDM Daiwa Steez A 100L. My latest purchase was a JDM Daiwa 21 Zillion SV TW 1000L. I have ordered JDM parts for my Daiwa reels over the years too... The exchange rate saved me some $$$ too. Thank you for sharing 🍺🎣

[@HobieWanKenobi]

My first JDM purchase was a finesse spool for a Daiwa PX Type-R. It was a great setup but, I parted the reel out and sold it on TackleTour.

[@StaySaneFishing]

I know a lot of your videos are reviews, which I appreciate and is super helpful, but I would love to see some longer length stream fishing videos. Not many creators with stream fishing videos using BFS. Nice to kick back and watch some stream fishing because I live so much further from trout fishing that I used to. Always looking forward to the next trip and videos scratches some of that itch lol…

[@HobieWanKenobi]

You will have one in a couple days. It will be a little longer. Still technically a lure review but, plenty of trout action. It was probably my best day trout fishing!

[@ernievegajr7058]

Thanks for the code

[@HobieWanKenobi]

No problem. Every bit counts.

[@FishiganMilligan]

Awesome thanks! Great video.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Thanks!

[@FishiganMilligan]

@@HobieWanKenobi should I buy one of those Alderbaran BFS reels? They are only $280 on digitaka?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@FishiganMilligan I think the 22 Aldebaran BFS is very nice for trout fishing as well as bass fishing. There is a discount code E42 that's still good too.

[@leepao6302]

Always Digitaka and always will hands down

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Fast shipping, low prices and straightforward ordering...why not?

[@arnemueller2112]

I purchase directly from Japan since years. DIGITAKA, JAPANLURESHOP, JAPAN TACKLE, PLAT and so on. Indeed, DIGITAKA mostly has the best price but for example Japanlureshop always includes a very nice gift such as Vision Oneten. Unfortunately, the exchange rate to Euro is worse and we have about 20% customs fee, so price is not the main driver, rather availability. Greetings from Germany!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I agree. In todays market, availability is the biggest issues worldwide. Seeing availability on most JDM sites is very frustrating. Good thing is that Daiwa is seeming to restock items faster than Shimano.

[@markodjurakic1515]

What's going on with the EU - Japan Free Trade Agreement? It seems that if an order has appropriate documentation, 0 fees would be applied. However, my friend ordered a reel from Digitaka to Germany, and there was about 30% added fee (19% VAT and 11% unknown source 😂).

[@MrLarrypad]

I got on to Digitaka from your videos. I got burned a few times using eBay. Thanks for the code

[@HobieWanKenobi]

eBay is a gamble a lot of times. If ordering from a legit shop on eBay, it isn't bad. Getting reels from individual sellers is definitely a gamble. I got a "slightly used" Zillion from a Japanese seller years ago that was trashed. Gears were tarnished from saltwater and had a buzz.

[@Hammarlux]

90210... Used to watch Beverly Hills too back in the days. Great video! Even though I already buy alot from Japan it's great to inform others! Digitaka get 5/5 in my book. Great prices extremely fast shipping.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I'm surprised nobody said anything about the phone number 😂. I obviously don't live in Beverly Hills with all the snow 😂

[@Hammarlux]

@@HobieWanKenobi Beverly Hills have another kind of snow 😉 The expensive type...🤭 I live in Sweden and had 1.5 feet of snow a few days ago so no fishing right now...

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Haha...I see what you are talking about 👃. I am waiting for ice to get thicker to fish the lakes. A few rivers are accessible year round.

[@blongyang5547]

Thanks been looking at get a bfs reel from Japan

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Glad this video was helpful for you. What reel you plan on getting?

[@uncclifford1877]

I buy a lot of JDM reels. Most of the reels sold in the USA hold more line than needed for bass fishing. Digitaka is my go to store. I'am getting into BFS in a big way, I just ordered a Silver Creek the morning just prior to your posting. I fish Daiwa Exist spinning reels and save over $200 per reel when buying from Digitaka.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Definitely agree with the line capacity statement. The Silver Creek got a lot of use this year from me. I really like it, even for panfish in open water

[@philipfalco7304]

How do you like the Exist? I purchased the 22 Stella C2000shg and really like it but need another small spinner. I was looking at the Exist 2000 size.

[@uncclifford1877]

@@philipfalco7304 The Daiwa Exist is the way to go. I don't have a 2000 (yet) but 2500 up to 5000. The new 2022 is a work of art. The difference between the two is the 2018 has an anti reverse while the 2022 does not. So if you are a back reeler this is something to consider. The drags on Daiwa reels are so buttery smooth that back reeling not necessary.

[@philipfalco7304]

@@uncclifford1877 Thank's Unc; I guess I'm going to have to give it a go. I've never been a back reeler so that's not a minus for me.

[@R..I..P..]

Been using them for years, always hi end gear, never a problem, the quickest, cheapest and safest in the online world.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Great to hear. I havent heard anything bad about them

[@philipfalco7304]

I've ordered 20 reels from Digitaka over the last 8 months and only had to send 2 back. Best prices, really fast shipping and no tax with the added bonus of points. 😃

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That's a pretty good track record. I do like that the price you see is what you pay.

[@philipfalco7304]

@@HobieWanKenobi I got really lucky with the majority of Reels. I'm very picky! I hear a lot of people say it's about 50/50 with Japan sites. The biggest problem I have is that I'm even more picky with rods and I can't bring myself to order rods through the mail. That's where I rely on you with your informative video's to help me out.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@philipfalco7304 😂 I have been known to be a guinea pig for people's tackle addiction.

[@philipfalco7304]

@@HobieWanKenobi You've earned it!😄

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@philipfalco7304 It is great to share my tackle experiences with you all.

[@IrishAllroundAngling]

Would love a review of the major craft finetail full glass 4’10 bfs. I’d like to know how it compares to the other rods you’ve used.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That rod is on my short list. I was also thinking of a short version, as I have some pretty tight streams near me.

[@warefisher]

Good info! Thanks. I started using the JDM sites a month ago and now two Zillions and a Certate. I’d love to get a Conquest BFS just on its looks alone. Gorgeous reel. What would be your recommendation on an all-around BFS rod for bottom contact bass fishing (ned rigs)? Maybe mid-level price range. I don’t have a true BFS reel yet but might initially use with a Tatula sv tw 70 or a zillion sv. Smallmouth fishing.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The Cashion Icon BFS 6'10" ML is really nice. I been liking it a lot. It is great for bigger smallies and still has fun factor for smaller bass

[@trgxdnb]

Ordered from digitaka for the first time this week...great experience! quick shipping on my slx. I was lazy and used paypal but I didn't know about the transaction fee

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Did you get the SLX BFS? That reel is the definition of JDM vs USDM. The Curado BFS is a good value in the USDM but, that SLX is basically the same reel at a lower price.

[@trgxdnb]

@@HobieWanKenobi Yessir slx bfs! I was looking at the curado but after tactical bassin brought it up in their new video it's sold out everywhere. I also picked up an abu garcia alc bf7 for an absolute steal

[@arnemueller2112]

Although a bit outdated, the ABU ALC BF 7 still is a great reel. I have two of them and fish them for years without any problem. Easy to do maintenance as well. This is a nice reel 👍

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The Curado BFS seems to always be sold out. Shimano seems to have slower to restock than Daiwa. Silver Creek and Gekkabijin have been getting restocked about every week versus months for any Shimano reel.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@aenemueller2112 I am waiting to see if Abu Garcia comes out with a new BFS reel.

[@Cliffhume]

If you order a reel on Digitaka, you also get free shipping on lures, line, terminal tackle, etc. Not so if you only order a rod.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Good point. Combining products to get free shipping helps quite a bit.

[@philipfalco7304]

Great Video Hobie! I have a question: I want to buy a Dobyns Sierra BFS rod for my Curado BFS, Scorpion BFS and SLX BFS but I really don't want to go 7'. I was looking at the 6'9" models. The 690C is rated as light/mod with extra fast tip and the 691C with light/fast action. I'll be throwing 1/16-1/4 Oz. spinners and spoons. Which one would be a better choice for these techniques? Thank's.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

If going with the Sierra Series, the 690c would be the better choice. The lighter tip will help you cast those lures and the mod taper will help keep them pinned. I would run monofilament line with the setup.

[@davidwilfong7262]

Any current code? I tried the one in your bio but didn’t work. Thanks

[@RitchFishing]

So I just discovered digitaka and I am looking to get a Stella FK 2500 but something I noticed is that all of their 2500 options are shallow spool. Do they not have non shallow spool Stella FK’s in JDM models or is it just that they don’t have any in stock?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Most mid to high level JDM spinning reels have a shallow version. The arbor of the spool is shallower to still give the cast casting performance of a larger spool but, with less line capacity. I am not sure from model to model with reels have a shallow spool.

[@sijiali525]

Do you think the Alpha CT SV 800s a good choice for BFS fishing?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Depends on what type of lures you are casting. It would be the upper end of what most people consider BFS but, it will cast most finesse bass lures just fine.

[@user-bg7tg9ec3j]

Подскажите пожалуйста а в Чехию можно купить на digitaka спиннинг? Есть ли томоженный сбор ?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Digitaka sells spinning rods and they do not charge custom duty. If there is a custom duty charge, that will come from the Czech Republic. It happens a small amount of time here in the USA.

[@emnico6063]

im planning to order reel from digitaka and i dont know much about paying custom fee/import fee. can you help me?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

In the USA, I haven't paid any on a reel. I know some people have paid from the USA on rods but, pretty rare

[@Brannok812]

So far, I have not ordered from Digitaka. I have bought rods and reels from Asian Portal (yeah, it sounds like a massage parlor). Shipping is usually free except for 1-piece rods. One disappointment is that so far, I have not been able to get combined shipping for rods. Also, if they have the same rod on eBay and their website, it will be cheaper for a 1-piece rod on eBay due to the shipping discount sellers can get vs. going straight to FedEx or Japan Post.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I haven't ordered a one piece rod from Japan. Not combining shipping is odd, as most people who order one piece rods from Japan usually buy multiple rods to ship at once to save on shipping.

[@Brannok812]

@@HobieWanKenobi Agreed. Perhaps it was a communication issue (all via email) or perhaps they just don't feel the need? Thanks the the helpful video and the reply.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@Brannok812 Thanks for watching. Most times an email can solve a lot of confusion.

[@jeffbranson835]

Hey can you help me decide witch bfs reel to buy??? I mostly bass fish from a boat and currently have a dyobns Sierra 700 with a zephyr. I’m really enjoying fishing it but think I need a reel upgrade. budget is around 300$ I mostly throw wacky sankos , small neds and Texas rigs with it. I’m leaning towards the aldebaran bfs but just not sure. I’ve been trying to do research but most reel reviews seem to concentrate on how light of a weight can be thrown and not just regular ol finesse bass fishing. I’d love your take on this. Maybe even a video as you seem to do a lot of bfs bass . Thanks for all the content you do. I love the channel

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yeah. The almost meme-worthiness of people casting super light lures is something else 😂. You could get an SLX BFS from Digitaka for about $150 and cover all what you listed. The Aldebaran BFS is quite nice and a noticable upgrade. Either route you go, there is a discount code for Digitaka 9J7 that saves you a little. Worked as of this morning. I will be having some BFS bass fishing videos coming soon. Tomorrow will have one catching some big bluegill and a few bass from a boat

[@jeffbranson835]

Just ordered the aldebaran! I followed your video on how to order and the code worked. Thank you!!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@jeffbranson835 Glad it worked for you! Let me know how the Aldebaran is for you

[@jeffbranson835]

Update on the aldebaran. The thing is super smooth , tight, and just feels like a very high quality reel. I was expecting it to be a hair less temperamental and was over casting it a first. I was a bit disappointed with the backlashes I was getting but upgraded to a higher quality braid(16#ygk to 8# leader) calmed myself down a little now I’m effortlessly casting far and accurately. I love it!!! my third day on the lake with it throwing a wacky sanko. I caught and landed a 13.3 pound catfish. It handled it no problem. I ordered a slx and love it too! Your recommendations were spot on ! Thank you!!!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@jeffbranson835 Glad to hear the Aldebaran is working for you. I really like mine.

[@ethanshaikun180]

I tried ordering and it said my card was declined and I used visa and a Mastercard credit card. Do u know if that is common or not? The visa is through us bank so don’t know if it got declined because of international concerns of it being a fraudulent purchase. Was a little sad

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Most likely the bank/credit card seeing a foreign transaction and declining it to protect you. You can call or log into your account online and authorize it. Happened to me once

[@alexdashevsky2180]

I like your video. I have ordered from Digitaka once. Very good price for JDM merchandise. What I don’t like it is quality. I have purchased Daiwa sv tw 800s reel. Cool looking reel but quality isn’t good. I don’t know why maybe because is not build in Japan . TWS has a lot of play. I have filings Daiwa never checked their quality. No more Daiwa for me.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I have the Alphas SV TW (similar to your reel) and I really like it. the TWS will have a slight amount of play but, doesn't affect performance.

[@alexdashevsky2180]

@@HobieWanKenobi I understand. When you paid for the reel almost 200$ you expected something better quality.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I had a Steez SV Tw that I had to lube. The reel was rough and casted terribly. I put some grease on the gears and oil in the bearings...reel was perfect afterwards. Not saying this is your issue but, worth a shot.

[@alexdashevsky2180]

@@HobieWanKenobi I don’t talking about main gears. Same issue. I can grease my gears bat that play in tws is really annoying.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@alexdashevsky2180 All of my TWS have a slight amount of play that I think is by design

[@andreicretu5339]

Hey! Is 9J7 still valid? I've tried to use it for an aldebaran but it's not working. Many thanks!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

K63 is a new code

[@andreicretu5339]

Thank you very much! Really appreciate it! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@HobieWanKenobi]

No problem man. Share it with others, as the codes seem to last like 2 months

[@BfsMania]

Anyone from EU can tell me how many days have waited their orders from digitaka? Thanks 💪💪

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Most people seem to get their order in 4-6 days in Europe.

[@dontdoxmebro1780]

Sad to see the usd/jp finally topped and it dropping pretty fast

[@HobieWanKenobi]

It was a fun ride while it lasted.

[@percussionalobsecration6178]

I have found it pretty easy to order from the major Japanese stores. My 22 Aldebaran bfs from Japan Tackle, as it was the only place that had it In stock for the Lefthanded xg model. They were priced about 12,000 yen higher, plus you had a $26 shipping fee. My other reels have been from Digitaka, with good prices and free shipping. they have all shipped pretty fast, except the most recent one I ordered, which I am sure will ship on Monday. I have found Digitaka to be the best place to purchase JDM reels, as their pricing is the best. The 21 antares DC I purchased was around $480, while Japan Tackle has them at $595. However, I think I will probably stick to US stores for my rods, as I typically favor 1 piece rods.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I have had similar experience ordering JDM gear. Digitaka is the best overall for me. One piece rods are a nightmare to ship from I heard. Need a proxy buyer, very expensive shipping and more than likely getting hit by customs too.

[@bxcloud104]

Anyone's sound not working? Working on Android, but I used like 3 Browsers on Windows 11 and hear nothing. Other YT videos work fine.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I just tried it on Windows. The audio is working for me. Let me know how you resolve the issue. Thanks

[@bxcloud104]

@@HobieWanKenobi It works when I plugged in my headphones.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

🤣I have done that a few times.

[@jordanramirez4185]

Coupon code was disabled😢

[@jordanramirez4185]

Never mind just seen the description thank you🙏🏾

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I will always have an updated coupon code in my About Me section on KZbin and my bio on Instagram

[@peterouuu]

is it used or new?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Current code is N95

[@muskyvictim]

That's what I'm trying to find out literally now after one year bought several high end reels - 2 ANTARES DC , Excense DC , zillion 1000 hd , Steez HLC , BUT I noticed slight click play in scorpion DC handle AND so I took a real closer look at the pics of the ANTARES dc s and Excense DC THUMB BARS , and I see some white discoloration in between the ridges ??? Take a look guys please advise ... Am I mentally reduced or is it possible they're used ?? Another thing is why pics are out of box too right ? I ordered from Asian Portal and also Plat but no suspicion there . Hate to bring this up after all this time but please take a look at pics on site of antares DC and DC mds

[@JayJay-vu8tj]

Is there a new code ?

[@peterouuu]

@@muskyvictim i got a shimano twin power in december. it’s new! unless listed used. but they’re all new !

[@vpuentes1956]

ANY CHANCE: I am hearing from some that Digitaka sells Chinese Knok-off Daiwa and Shimano reels. I am trying to do my homework and not be concerned about any purchase from them.......

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That is definitely not true. Myself and MANY other people have purchased from Digitaka over the years and they have been authentic Daiwa and Shimano products.

[@Juan-rx6qj]

Noon these is not good now everything will be sold out !!!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

😂...The Silver Creek and Gekkabijin AIR TW come back in stock frequently

[@Juan-rx6qj]

@@HobieWanKenobi i been waiting for the bantam to restock and nothing 7.1

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@Juan-rx6qj Did you set restock notification on Digitaka?

[@Juan-rx6qj]

@@HobieWanKenobi i didn't know you can do that brother i just wanted to say you are the reason I got the silver creek i wasn't sure but now is One of my favorite reel with the roro spool

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@Juan-rx6qj That Silver Creek is a great reel. If you have an account on Digitaka, just go to the item page and if it's sold out, click "Notify When In Stock" and you will get an email when it comes back

[@andreiiancu5144]

Did you leave your address and phone nr on purpose?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That is fake information I used to make an account just for this video.

[@andreiiancu5144]

@@HobieWanKenobi that makes sense! Thanks for the video!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

No problem! Thanks for looking out.

[@alainingremaud5626]

Bonjour et merci pour cette vidéo intéressante et surtout merci pour le partage . Je vais aller voir sur le site DIGITAKA .Bien cordialement , Alain ,un pêcheur Français .

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Digitaka ships worldwide so, you can enjoy fishing tackle, even in France. The discount code NS4 works for anglers all over the world.