Shakespeare Micro Series rod review | Great Ultra Light for Crappie, Trout, Panfish

[@louisoctaviojr6876]

I came back to thank you. I bought 7'ft Micro and took it trout fishing. 9 brown trout later, I couldn't switch it out with my other rods. Love it sir, thank you again

[@ifishcatfish]

doesn't look fancy but this blank casts good and is a joy to play fish

[@fishtheworld5100]

I love this rod! I have the 7ft light too. I use it as my do everything multi species setup. I love your videos 👍

[@ifishcatfish]

thanks buddy!

[@derekwilkin]

Thank you for all your reviews and videos I have watched many ,I know it's 5 years on but I just bought one and paired it with the Shimano Ultegra 2500 2021 on your recommendations and am very happy, thank you👍

[@ifishcatfish]

its still a good rod

[@D.Botherme]

You are my go to fisherman when I need solid information, advice and instruction on everything fishing ❗👍... experience and knowledge on the subject..Thank you for being a great teacher 👍❗...Number 1 on light tackle also

[@kennyb0y1597]

I remember thinking about getting this rod when I was still fishing on a tight budget. I went around on Daiwa and Shimano looking for a rod that was under $100, could cast 1/8 or 1/16 - 1/4 oz and 7' 2 peice but only found the Procyon freshwater that met those requirements but I wasn't able to find it in any of my local shops or online. I eventually found your video about UL rods and reels and then watched the review for this. I completely circled back to this rod. After looking for it at 2 Walmart and taking it fishing, I was extremely happy with this rod. It's paired with a Daiwa Exceler 2500 and I'm extremely happy with it. Thanks for reviewing and recommending the rod.

[@ifishcatfish]

its a great rod even today

[@ronkauffman9058]

I have this rod in a 4'6" u.l. for streams. Just bought the 7' light today for trout in large ponds etc. Good rod for the money.

[@stephenstalter2481]

Finally. Someone reviews my main rod for the last ten years(actually, I own the black micro graphite and the micro...I also own everything else except the 6'6" and the 7'UL) I have caught everything from micro-fish to an eight pound channel cat on it and it has never broken. I found the 7'6"UL to be a bit floppy for me however. The 5'UL is fantastic. None of my Micro Graphite or Micro series have ever broken and I have been pretty rough on them. The only weak point in my estimation is the guides. I would rather have cheap aluminum oxide ones than the stainless polished ones(the titanium oxide ones on my new F&S Tango rods are excellent and must be cheap). The tips just wrap up so badly(same with my Fenwick Eagle). The 7' L is perfection. I need to get some of that cork seal as I still have the plastic that survived on most of mine still. I am going to get that Presso as a result of this video. It doesn't look nearly as floppy as the MicroUL or the Fenwick Eagle 7UL.

[@brandywineangler6748]

Totally agree with this review. These rods are a ridiculously good value.

[@joel4225]

8:20 “because I love you guys” lmao sold me on the rod. Great review! I’m thinking about picking a couple up and pairing them with my Abu Revos

[@Airborn2volleyball]

I finally found this 7 ft light rod at Walmart for $16. Love this rod and thanks for the video.

[@ifishcatfish]

your lucky. Everyone's been searching for this rod. What state are u from?

[@Airborn2volleyball]

@@ifishcatfish I’m in Dallas. I was searching for over a month and went to 5 different Walmart locations. I scored the only one I saw and was at a location I checked 3 times before. I would say check in person and don’t rely on what the inventory says online.

[@caseyturner8773]

Keep those fantastic videos coming! Your cork handles are fantastic. An idea for a new video might be "how to seal a cork handle". I would very much like to see a video on how you keep your handles so nice. The grey color blank you don't like actually looks exactly like the blank on the St. Croix Mojo Cat rod, which is fantastic. I've looked at the Shakespeare micro since last year but it's so short. I think I might have to pick one up though if you think this much of it. If worse comes to worse I'm sure it would be great for catching skipjack! Great video and thank you for all the time you put into making them.

[@ifishcatfish]

thanks Casey. I am going to the catfish conference next Saturday. If you are going as well send me email if u want to coordinate. I will drive there and drive back the same day so wont be there long. On the rods, I think someone like you should get the Presso instead. And I will make a video on how to seal the cork handles!

[@earngheng2004]

Best rod ever! I caught 5lbs hybrids without problem. Very sensitive for 1/64oz jigs

[@John..18]

Thank you for showing us this one, I've tried unsuccessfully to find a Presso over here in England, so I might have to go for this one, which seems readily available,, the other rod I'm considering is the 10ft Abu Devil,, have you any experience of these rods ?,, all the best my friend from across the pond,, 👍

[@ifishcatfish]

we don't use 10 foot rods here in USA. Even 8 foot is considered crazy long. In USA people cast to the fish. I know u guys in UK like to assemble these 7 piece 7 meter long rods and just drop on top of the fish, but here this just doesn't exist..

[@edwinrcorbin2579]

Once again, thank you for your review of a rod that most people would not waste their time reviewing. Again, as a very average senior citizen living on a fixed income, I am not going to spend $100 for a fishing rod. I love the fact that I can shop for these rods at my local Walmart and test them out in my hand before I buy them. I own the 5 foot six ultralight, the 7 foot ultralight and the 7 foot light action Models. That’s three rods for about $50. That suits my needs. Please tell me exactly what you use to seal the cork handles. (I did previously ask this question…You do not need to answer twice)

[@ifishcatfish]

I can tell u now, 2 years later, having tried some exceptional JDM rods, this rod and the Daiwa Presso for $60 are the best value in ultralight fishing rods world. Also, this is by NO MEANS a beginners rod!

[@ericmarks6322]

Always liked Shakespeare gear. caught many fish in fresh and saltwater with their gear. Always held up well with proper maintenance, of course

[@BWEEZY8023]

*Xmas gift to myself, packaged decently and received in good condition i had to adjust a couple eyelets but nothing major. I paired it up with a Quantum Optix 10, 10lbs PP braid and a finesse jig. In two days, I pulled in a bunch of dinks and a 5 & 6 pounder. The rod held up well with the biggin’s, take your time and go easy when reeling in the big girls. Fun rod to fish with, i’ll probably bring this rod on every outing. Time will tell how it holds up but based on my experience so far, I would definitely recommend this rod!

[@ifishcatfish]

thats a very frugal gift to self - your wife should appreciate that..

[@gerryb8879]

For best balance, would you pair the Sahara 2500 with the 5.6 foot micro light or the 7 foot light? The Sahara is the same weight as the 5.6 ft pole but from reading your comments I'm wondering if the reel may be too heavy for the rod?

[@ifishcatfish]

yeah, that reel is too heavy for any Ultralight rod in the world. This is a bass reel. Even if you have the new sahara, which is ligher than the old, you still need the 2000 size

[@ClearWater7.62]

What do you think of the 4'6" rod? Mostly for trouts in narrow creeks in California forest. Or 5' would be better?

[@ifishcatfish]

im not familiar with those models.. if they come in L power, go for it. But in UL power they might be wobbly

[@darrenhays021]

Love your reviews and thoughts on fishing gear. I bought the 7’ light that u recommended. I thought about gluing the 2 pieces together since all of my rods are all in piece. Would I destroy it gluing it or would it be ok?

[@ifishcatfish]

it would be fine. but careful how u glue. Put very little glue on the walls and very THIN layer. Otherwise when u put the top piece u will push the glue down and the top piece will not be able to go all the way down for good fit

[@darrenhays021]

@@ifishcatfish thanks so much I hadn’t thought it out that far. I will be sure to keep the epoxy thin

[@edwinrcorbin2579]

The cork handles on your rods appear to be quite shiny and rich looking. Did you treat them with something as a preservative?

[@ifishcatfish]

I have video on that. Please search my channel for 'How to'

[@sirmikey7v844]

Hey man thank you for reviewing cheaper rods appreciate it

[@MissingNumb]

My favorite $20 Holla rod. Ended up rebuilding with SeaGuide XO guides. Very fun in Hawaiian Saltwater. From fingerling wrasse to single digit amberjack on live bait these rods can make any species fun. Love it for "Hawaiian Carp" (Bonefish), sensitive enough to feel the inhale of the bait, but soft enough to allow the fish to set hook itself without noticing and spooking. Excellent dropshot and drift float as mentioned. One thing to watch is tip wrap, have had a couple shortened when that breeze from hell comes out of nowhere mid cast (Hence the rebuild with concept style guides.). Love that a majority of your tackle tastes line up with mine. Have both the Sahara and Legalis and was given peace of mind by your teardowns and reviews. Now if only Daiwa came out with a higher capacity Ryoga for us SW guys!

[@ifishcatfish]

I find the rod market very different from the reel market. In reels the cheap reels are way different than the expensive reels. You just can't make hagane gears for $20, and ceramic bearings are not cheap, and magnetic oil seals are even more expensive. Not to talk about ultra light but super rigid zaion body. And I have plenty of Ryogas as you know. But for fishing rods I find it a waste of money. There are so many cheap rods that I simply love fighting the fish with. Even my favorite daiwa Presso is not really expensive.. Spending 300-400 on a rod is just silly as most of the time those have too much carbon and are too stiff.

[@uAintliveifudontthiz]

Just got this rod and paired it with a president 20. I love this set up!! Caught so many yellow bass on them.

[@cincinnatiking8008]

Would this rod still be good for all around fishing in the 6'6" light rod power and medium action? I mainly want to use it for smaller fish like crappie and bluegills. Maybe a bass or two. I want to get the Daiawa Legalis, but I don't know what type of rod to get for multi specie's fishing. I usually catfish, but would like to try some other types of fishing. I'm very interested in crappie jigs

[@ifishcatfish]

6'6 Light power would be fantastic with 2500D Legalis (or Exceller or Regal LT - all the same reel) . Very durable rod, wont mind fighting occasional bass or channel cat

[@Abcdiiiiii]

For how many days you are using Shakespeare micro rod did it break Can we use it for small 2lbs snakehead

[@ifishcatfish]

The way you ask this question... i would say don't buy this rod. I have landed several big catfish with this rod, but u need to know how to play fish, you cannot just yank on them like when u do bass fishing.

[@Abcdiiiiii]

​@@ifishcatfish then suggest me a cheap ultralight snakehead rod spinning

[@ifishcatfish]

something stronger than Ultralight for sure.. Maybe SHimano Sensilite A. Watch that review. That rod is stronger

[@G3Steve]

Would the Shakespeare Micro 7' Light be too stiff to get any distance with 1/32 oz jigs? Trying to decide between the light and the UL. I want something that I could use to dunk Powerbait for trout, but also light enough to cast trout magnets and mini tubes a decent distance.

[@ifishcatfish]

I only recommend the L. The UL is very unstable. You will cast the jig fine. It's not the perfect rod for that but the blank is perfect for fighting the fish. UL will not cast farther, UL is no good. This is $20 rod that performs like a $60 rod so dont be too picky.

[@nicholaspietrzak9992]

Just got one today. Loved the feel the second I picked it up and multiple people told me at the store that it was fantastic for what you pay for it. Taking it out tomorrow on some crappie and can’t wait. I have a fenwick ultra lite as well and I’m interested to see how it compares

[@ifishcatfish]

did u buy before or after watching my video?

[@nicholaspietrzak9992]

After!

[@gerryb8879]

I'm looking at the 5'6 L for pond fishing but saw your comment that it is wobbly. Do you think this size would not be a good choice? The 7' L is also available but I was looking for something for tighter spaces. Thanks.

[@ifishcatfish]

they have a 6'6 L. which is even better than the 7'0. I didn't like the shorter models but u can check them out. Same exact problem with Daiwa Presso - the models shorter than 6'6 are wobbly. Not much, but enough for me to dislike them.

[@mistermatsuda]

Thank you for this review. I was looking for a rod that was of great value - this one is it! $20! How can you beat that?

[@ifishcatfish]

you can't.

[@stephenstalter2481]

Quick question Victor. If someone was looking to have the same sort of rod(same feel and action with lighter weight and a bit more sensitivity) with a bit better quality, what would I look at? I have looked at your review on the Presso and they seem a bit softer. Have you tried the 7' light Okuma Celilo? I grabbed a Fenwick Eagle UL 7' and an Ugly Stik gx UL 7" at the store and they were way too wobbly. Any thoughts? I don't want to end up with two more Featherlights and a 7'6" Micro that I never use.

[@ifishcatfish]

watch my fenwick XMH and Shimano Sensilite reviews. Those do not wobble

[@mitchgarcia4591]

Hi Victor , I need a recommendation reel for my new TFO panfish :trout ultra light 6’6” one piece spinning Rod fast action. Lure 1/32 - 3/16 I have a couple in mind should I go 1000 size or 2000? I been looking at the Japan Shimano vanford 2000S. I chose this cuz it has lower gear & shallow spool. Wich I hate USA models because of deep spools and hgs. Another reel I been looking at is a cheaper option. The Daiwa legalis , but I hate the deep spools, because I will be using 4lb mono. Lastly, I’m fishing in small lakes , Resevoir, creeks , small ditch canals , targeting small blue gill , crappie, small bass. Thank you sir for all your help & suggestions, I trust your input. 👍

[@ifishcatfish]

the new Legalis is a better option for that rod. 1000 or 2000 size. 4lb line is NOT thin.. you don't need a shallow spool if u fish 4 lb line. I strongly recommend the new Legalis LT. Then go to my shop and get the line roller bearings and the handle knob bearings and u will have a legalis w 10 bearings! : )

[@mitchgarcia4591]

@@ifishcatfish awesome thanks!

[@mitchgarcia4591]

@@ifishcatfish yeah I just went online & checked it out , looks nice only the color. Too much gold for me lol. I hate being picky , but what about the Daiwa 20 Legalis Lt 1000.? That one too me looks better, any experience with that model you can tell me about? Hell I just might spend the extra n get the new Cardiff. Ci4 1000 That’s the one I really like! It’s the $300 price I don’t like 😕

[@ifishcatfish]

@@mitchgarcia4591 I bought my cardiff for $200. The new Legalis is much better than the old. I recommend getting over the gold color

[@mitchgarcia4591]

@@ifishcatfish thanks , do you have a link to that Cardiff?

[@pescuimcumayaleon4162]

I bought the micro series after watching this video, happy with it, thx!!

[@richpena2176]

Sealed cork... nice.. what did u use..

[@ifishcatfish]

check my channel for a video where i explain how to do it

[@theoravelo136]

Thinking of getting the 5’6” Micro Series Light for small lake/park or creek trout fishing. Good idea?

[@ifishcatfish]

perfectg

[@theoravelo136]

@@ifishcatfish Thanks Victor. I will get one.

[@davidb4122]

I got the 4’6 ul paired it with a Shimano sienna 1000 and 6lb mono havent used it yet but it looks great

[@ifishcatfish]

@@davidb4122 2 lb SOS line. 6 lb is not ultralight :)

[@davidb4122]

@@ifishcatfish Well I don’t know about that

[@antaranexpress7502]

How you sealed the cork handle ?... It looks nice & glossy.

[@ifishcatfish]

please search my channel for 'How to Seal' . I made a video about it

[@jairusaudwin2605]

Whoelse is here after watching the 2024 buying guide?

[@ifishcatfish]

the right thing to do!

[@quanloikid1]

I found a deal and with a with a small gift card I bought 2, 7'-6" microlite UL rods for $10 each. Probably softer than you would like but probably good for casting Cleos and The CP Swing'(most under-rated spinner) from the Pier. I used to catch Northern Pike and Pickerel with it and with is hydrodynamics it runs close to the surface, very good for early morning fishing

[@ifishcatfish]

yeah, i prefer the L.. but if u don't mind the slow recovery, these will be great rods.

[@quanloikid1]

@@ifishcatfish This 7-6 UL rod is NG for micro twitching but should be great for float fishing.I bought them because the 7' was out of stock If it were 6-18" longer it would be great for downrigger fishing with a Stradic C3000 HG loaded 4-6lb test. You have to be careful with the release settings or the strike will break the line and/or the lure will not set. My personal best was a 20 lb King with 6lb mono a few years ago. I would love to use 4lb mono or fluoro. I hope I will live that long!

[@justkoolrayray75]

Good informative vid, I've been looking for a good but cheap weekend warrior rod to slay the trout.

[@ifishcatfish]

this is the best budger UL that i know. I think the only good one.

[@quanloikid1]

I was looking at this review again and I have noticed you use gloves frequently and thus the screw thread on the handle shouldn't bother you unless your sense of touch is out of control. I did buy the 7' light as you suggested and it did just as you suggested--good for both.

[@ifishcatfish]

its true, on the water it never bothers me...

[@usmclee65]

Thanks for all the great info, i just bought a one after watching your vid, i bought a 7 6" that's all i could find

[@ifishcatfish]

Light or UL? I find the L being better. UL is too wobbly

[@pmrp12]

Just discovered your channel and love your well informed and direct presentation! Being new to ultralight, seems this rod (6’6” light power) with a Daiwa Regal LT (1000 size) is the way to go. Just to confirm, will this rig easily cast smaller 1/32 oz jigs with soft plastics? Other ultralight channels seemed to recommend the 13 Fishing Defy Silver rod (5’6” UL power) with Okuma Inspira reel (ISX-20b)-have you tried either? I live in south Florida, so multi species is my objective and grassy conditions are common.

[@ifishcatfish]

yes, it will, MUCH BETTER than the 13 fishing Defy, which is a stiff rod. U got the best value combo in the world now, don't ask any more questions, just buy it, and later will see what to use it for.

[@pmrp12]

@@ifishcatfish this is why I follow you-no doubts with your recommendations. Consider it done. Thank you sir!

[@ishkhanishvili]

Hello could you tell me what is lure test for 7.0 ultralight? And for 2-2.4g spinners which rod you recommend light or ultralight micro series? Thanks

[@ifishcatfish]

Vakho Ishkhanishvili u can see the specs on the shakespeare website. I dont have the UL. But the Light is already so soft that i would not recommend the UL. 2.4 gram is not a livht spinner, and then u have drag in the water..

[@duanebledsoe7566]

I generally hold my rods by the foregrip with all 4 fingers in front of the reel stem. Only placing a pinky behind the stem to make a cast and then immediately moving it back in front again. For me, the Shakespeare rod would be better since it has more of a foregrip than the Cabelas. But aside from that, I agree, flip the reel seat over during the rod build and make the foregrip serve as the tightening nut. If they did this while also making the foregrip large enough for my hand then this would be the perfect design for me. Even just have it large enough so that from the reel stem to the end of the grip I can keep 3 fingers on it, and place my index finger and thumb tip on the blank itself for sensitivity. Make the hook keeper a few inches higher up the blank, which it would be with this design so that the foregrip would have enough room to twist loose to release the reel. That keeps the hook keeper out of the way of my fingers too. This design is hard to find. A rod that comes in close enough to this is the St. Croix Premier that has its hook keeper placed farther up the blank, but it still has a tightening nut positioned like the Shakespeare. Still it is good enough for me since my hand will never be on the threaded area, but we are talking $155 rod vs the $20 rod here. BIG difference. But it was worth it to me so I paid it, LOL!

[@ifishcatfish]

$ 20 and readily available! You can't say readily available for many items these days

[@thereeldealkellen1311]

do you think it would be alright for bass fishing?

[@ifishcatfish]

if you catch accidental bass it would be no problem, but i wouldn't target bass with that

[@greeneyesfromohio4103]

I have that exact rod……I found it to be to stiff to throw small 1/32 jigs……I want to buy the same rod but in ULTRA LIGHT. You have one?

[@ifishcatfish]

the Ultra Light is very wobbly. Very different. I don't recommend it. Very few rods can load with a 1/32 jib, even ultra lights. I dont think its that stiff, although if it was softer it would help. But this is 7 foot long and if softer will wobble.

[@greeneyesfromohio4103]

@@ifishcatfish - ya I watched a video of a guy who had one and it looked wobbly as heck! So I was turned off by that…..I ended up buying a Bass Pro Micro Lite 7ft in a light power/fast tip. I actually have the rod already but it’s 6ft, and I love it. I was hoping to get some increased distance with the 7ft. Have you reviewed or experienced a Bass Pro micro lite? Their great rods for $60…..100% graphite…..not graphite composite like the Shakespeare rod.

[@ifishcatfish]

I know the BPS micro light. Nice rod but to me it feels just like the Shakespeare Micro Light, only with nicer handle. I don't feel anything different in the blank, and the guides are the same. But it is a little softer and will load better with 1/32. I prefer Shimano Sensilite for $60.

[@greeneyesfromohio4103]

@@ifishcatfish - That’s strange you don’t feel any difference in the rod blank…..the Shakespeare rod is a graphite composite blank, so it’s only partially graphite. The Bass Pro Micro Lite is 100% graphite. Most certainly a difference.

[@ifishcatfish]

well i haven't fished them both.. only played around in the store. But felt the same to me. Nothing is 100% graphite, except the core of a pencil. These cheap blanks all have plenty of resin in them. But its hard to tell everything in the store. probably feels better when u fish it

[@ericmolina6091]

I broke 2 last week (My fault) but they lasted! I caught some solid 8-10lbs fish on it! I rather break $20 rod instead of my Fenwick 😂. Ill just back and get 2 more!

[@OCDFishing87]

I just got a 7ft love it thanks i_fish

[@wayne9914]

Massively informative, great review! Thank you very much.

[@ifishcatfish]

Massively appreciated sir! Thanks for taking the time to drop a line!

[@adanzavalza3134]

I just got the 7 foot light. Perfect for pan fish and casts the smaller crank baits extremely far.

[@ifishcatfish]

blank is great

[@scottpope7180]

7'6" model is my favorite crappie rod!

[@ifishcatfish]

Light? Or UL . People don't know there is L and UL in this series..

[@TheFrogfeeder]

Just got the 7footer for my Xmas present to myself, nice little rod, can damn near tie it in a knot, and prespooled reel for 30$, can’t go wrong. It almost no backbone at all, which is what I was looking for. Can’t wait to get it wet.

[@ifishcatfish]

TheFrogfeeder 1. It is 20, not 30. Hopefully u didnt overpay. 2. They have L and UL so watch which one u get. I have the L. If u like the UL thats fine but keep in mind they make L

[@TheFrogfeeder]

i_fish I got the combo, so with a prespooled reel, 30$, you could not convince me I over payed ;)

[@TheFrogfeeder]

i_fish I did not see that yours is a light, yes mine is ultra light, seen both in rod-only. The light was just a bit stiffer than I was wanting. Great series of rods tho, thanks for the vid!

[@ifishcatfish]

Oh, didnt know its a combo. Now that i know - inthink that you .... still overpayed :). That reel is all plastic. Wont reel much or for very long. Check my reel reviews too. That legalisLT 2500 matches great :)

[@TheFrogfeeder]

i_fish k well I’m just gonna make this my last comment then cause you obviously dont know what you are talking about ;)

[@richieg8432]

Do you think this rod is good for throwing 1/8 oz Kastmasters,,Roostertails etc?

[@ifishcatfish]

Rould be perfect for that.

[@richieg8432]

@@ifishcatfish i bought the ultra light by accident,,uh oh

[@richieg8432]

@@ifishcatfish so am I screwed being I bought the Ultra Light?

[@ifishcatfish]

Why are u asking me?? U have it in ur hands. Do u like it? It is still a great rod, but softer and not so good for jigging lures. But plenty good for everything else, especially casting small spoons or spinners. Just the tip is not so sharp for twitching

[@richieg8432]

@@ifishcatfish why am I asking you? cause you do this stuff alot..but dont worry,I wont be asking you anything any longer..attitude is not needed.

[@elyazinho]

Can the 5'6 one be used for twitching?

[@ifishcatfish]

No. Too wobbly

[@bobbielentz1902]

Whats the line capacity of each rod for mono line?

[@ifishcatfish]

line capacity of a rod? Do u mean diameter?

[@finnafishfl]

I also love this rod! Haha you get the good stuff. Will watch later 👍

[@ifishcatfish]

i want to connect with u. Email be at [e-mail] . I need someone who knows the species because i constantly catch stuff that I don't know what it is..

[@borfishing7690]

👍🏼

[@DV-ol7vt]

Do you have a review on the Fish Eagle rod?

[@ifishcatfish]

no, but this here is a better deal. Fish eagle is very fast action and very stiff first half of th erod

[@DV-ol7vt]

@@ifishcatfish I like the handle on the Fish Eagle rod and the Presso rod, it is hard to find similar handles without spending over $100.00 for a rod.

[@infie]

How do you seal your cork? What product?

[@ifishcatfish]

i have a video 'How to Seal your cork'

[@leomortimer2565]

How does the 6' UL Cabela's Fish Eagle compare to the 7' L Shakespeare Micro rod? Love your video and subscribed. Thank you for your feedback!

[@ifishcatfish]

Well it looks and feels much nicer. Sharper tip, better for jigging. U cant really compare 60$ to 20$ rod. But the shakespeare rod will catch just as many fish and can do everything as well. Just wint be as enjoyable.

[@leomortimer2565]

@@ifishcatfish Thank you for your reply. This year, I really want to get into panfishing/crappie fishing. I bought a Trout Slayer Series rod but want a second rod to use as well. The 7' Light action Shakespeare looks to fit the bill. I have a spare Daiwa SS Tournament 1300 series reel I can put on the Shakespeare. A little heavy reel but hopefully balances out the 7' length. I don't like the tiny UL reels and prefer to go one size up for better castability.

[@ifishcatfish]

i always told people to go Legalis 2500 instead of Legalis 1000. The daiwa LT reels are so light that it makes no sense to go to 1000 size and get that small spool with curly line. The 7' micro rod is balanced very well without a reel though. If u put heavy reel u wont like it. I have used it with 2500 Legalis LT and its perfect. Thats 205 grams

[@brianbay8479]

What action is the rod? Medium or fast?

[@ifishcatfish]

Fast. U can see the bend curve in the video. Not too fast. Better look at the image

[@fishenfootball]

Fantastic review.

[@pan8a]

I love the micro series for trout. I have two of them I have a 7'6" and a 4'6". The Shakespeare micro series and the Berkeley trout dough rods are hard to beat for trout and crappie. The great thing about these two series of rods is that you can get them in longer sizes, like 7.5' and 8'.

[@ifishcatfish]

they really are hard to beat.

[@billwalker4836]

I bought the 7' 2piece model to replace one that I bought in 99 and the five foot six model just because. I wish they had a 6-foot model and I wish they were all three of them, one piece rods I kind of prefer one piece rods but for ultralight fishing I think will work out just fine for crappier. Till that day when you hook a big bass or stout cat that'll be the true test or maybe a Northern you just never know what's gonna bite.

[@ifishcatfish]

they have a 6'6 that is incredible. Why not get that? 5 lb bass can do nothing to that rod, and neither can a pesky pike. Check my channel home page for a 40" musky on a ultralight. It was no problem. The power of the fish is severely exaggerated by everyone. Rods only break from people not paying attention when they close the car door or the trunk... I do mostly carpfishing actually. I will make a video this summer of carpfishing only with ultralights, just to show people how little rod u need if u know how to use the drag on your reel.

[@matthewjackson2853]

Is this rod good for dropshot?

[@ifishcatfish]

yeah, actually - yes!

[@BassBros8]

Nice review!!👍

[@tylerparker3024]

What do you seal the cork with on your handles?

[@ifishcatfish]

I have a video about that. Please search it. It is a good video, showing all alternatives.

[@brandonmaples]

What model is the reel again? Thanks

[@ifishcatfish]

This is a very old, discontinued Team Daiwa ADVANTAGE. This reel is still super smooth. The only thing is its so heavy for a 2500, because back then everything was metal

[@DV-ol7vt]

How has this rod held up after a year?

[@ifishcatfish]

D V absolutely. But I sealed the handle.

[@jamesaritchie1]

Good review. I have a fair number of more expensive rods, but I love using cheap, simple rods because of the challenge. I have the five foot six and the seven foot Micro, and I find both very useful,. The five foot six model is excellent for small creeks when finding casting room is sometimes almost impossible. I also love a Shakespeare Ugly Stik when I need a rod that simply will not break. But I'm different. I even love fishing with the Zebco 20 and 404, but the 202 is my favorite. Using that cheap little rod, it was ten bucks WITH a reel and four pound test line, I've caught a LOT of fish, including a thirty-five pound carp. That was a challenge. I've also done a lot of fishing with nothing but a can pole, and that is a LOT of fun. I had a friend, now deceased, who spent more than thirty years fishing with cheap, 3 weight, seven foot fly rod. He went after all kinds and sizes of fish with it, including ones far larger than the rod/line were rated for. He caught so many good fish that it was incredible. I hate nothing about fishing as much as I hate seeing an "angler" go out with more electronics than a nuclear submarine, and with tackle so big, and line so strong, they could hoist a bull out of the water. Then they call themselves sportsmen. No, they aren't/

[@ifishcatfish]

This is EXACTLY how I feel! I got all 3 of my biggest carp on 0.30mm mono (less than 8 pound line) . They were 41 pounds each. Plenty of 30 pounders (u can see them in my best carp video) . I LOVE the sound of drag and I LOVE the bend in the blank and playing the fish!

[@andyh183]

Great Review.

[@selamatsentosa1388]

What size reel fit for the rod?

[@ifishcatfish]

2500 LT from daiwa

[@henrymccarty8014]

Can i use a 6'6" Shakespeare rod in salt water like in piers??

[@ifishcatfish]

The Light power blank would be fine... but the rod has steel guides that will rust from the salt.. U can still do it... the rod costs only $20

[@henrymccarty8014]

@@ifishcatfish so I wash before nd after I use it will that save it from the rust nd my friend so I can't use plastic baits nd jiggs?

[@ifishcatfish]

Henry McCarty in practice u wont do it and it will rust. But go for it. Not a big risk. Light powe is ok for baits up to 1/16. U can do 1/8 but will be too heavy

[@siloecontreras8185]

So then what is the presso good for ?

[@ifishcatfish]

Go to the store and hold one in your hand : ). It looks and feels like a piece of art. Weight 40 grams less that this rod, and fighting the fish with the presso is just amazing pleasure. But in terms of capabilities... it doesn't have anything extra. It is just lighter and more fund and more pleasant

[@siloecontreras8185]

i_fish ohhh nice unfortunately they don’t have any of these where I live but I was looking at buying one online because of your videos and your recommendations thank uou

[@siloecontreras8185]

i_fish what would be a good ultra light jigging rod you would recommend

[@ifishcatfish]

this has too many variables. This rod is actually pretty good for jigging, if u go with L power. Shimano sensilite. Fenwick HMX. watch the rest of the reviews. there is no short answer and the answer is not the same for different people

[@siloecontreras8185]

i_fish yes very true thank you

[@dopey006969]

Nice video!!!!!!

[@robertveith2255]

I live in West Virginia I want one for trout I have really good one i want a micro for places that could break my other one 20 dollars i don't have to worry about thanks for this..

[@ifishcatfish]

pay attention to the models I recommended

[@victorsimonsen921]

do a review on the cabelas prodigy 7 ft 6 in rod.

[@ifishcatfish]

coming up. I can tell u, next time u see this rod on sale for $60, just go buy it. There is nothing in this price range that looks or feels in similar

[@ifishcatfish]

i think its worth full price as well, btw, but it goes on sale at every major sale... i got mine for $60

[@usmclee65]

Thank you!

[@jmhelfri]

Sold!

[@ifishcatfish]

still available at a walmart near you

[@jmhelfri]

@@ifishcatfish I bought the 5'6" light action version for one $18. I was wanting 6' or longer but this one has a really nice feel with my Daiwa QZ750. Thanks again for the suggestion.

[@raaalph1705]

What do I use to seal the handle

[@ifishcatfish]

im making a video next week. THere is plenty of cork sealants out there..

[@raaalph1705]

i_fish thanks man this I was my 2nd vid of yours 1st was you talking to Luke at cat conference good stuff.

[@22lbsboost]

Would you say it behaves more like an ultralight? They do have a 7' ultralight model as well

[@ifishcatfish]

i said that repeatedly in the video

[@22lbsboost]

@@ifishcatfish oh I didn't notice bottom caption first watch sorry! Do you think the light model could still cast 1/64 oz jigs?

[@ifishcatfish]

@@22lbsboost yes, although not the best rod for that. But the UL models are too wobbly and unstable. If you are too picky, u need to look at higher cost rods. Buy Shimano Soare XR 6'0 SUL. That will cast 1/64 more than anything else i have tried.

[@22lbsboost]

@@ifishcatfish well I bought it yesterday and caught some 18-20" stocked rainbows and big crappie...amazing rod! The Regal LT 1000 I put on it feels far too light and doesn't balance well. I'm thinking I should get the Regal LT 2500 or possibly the Revros LT 2500 as it's shallow spool, but an entire ounce heavier than Regal.

[@roborovski008]

thinking of getting the L version, is it as good as the UL version ?

[@ifishcatfish]

the version I have is L , I only recommend the L. The UL is too soft and wimpy

[@roborovski008]

@@ifishcatfish aside from jigging, is this good for lure casting as well

[@ifishcatfish]

roborovski008 yes.

[@roborovski008]

@@ifishcatfish have you tried favorite blue bird ? If yes, is it better than the micro series? Thanks.

[@ifishcatfish]

No, i have not bought any favorite rods. I hope somebody sends me one for review

[@rhye_guy7717]

I love you too man.

[@ifishcatfish]

LoL

[@uAintliveifudontthiz]

Is there anything that can throw a 1/64th trout magnet?

[@ifishcatfish]

thats what i use! 1/64 trout magnet! Best bait on earth! Asked them for sponsorhip even... Shimano Sensilite 6'6 ultralight will throw it, but u need VERY good reel setup. I use Legalis 2500, and then u have to spool it with red label fluorocarbon all the way to the lip of the reel. I throw them pretty good. U can't use small reels if u want to throw small baits, because the line will be curly and u will have too much spool drag. 6 pound line or lower or course. I use 6lb red label and it casts them very nice.

[@uAintliveifudontthiz]

i_fish I agree it is an amazing bait! I’ll check them out. What line would you pair with a 2500 exceller? What rod would you pair it with? I have it on a 7’6 Fenwick HMG and it feels off. I’m not experienced so I don’t know what I’m doing.

[@G3Steve]

@@ifishcatfish How far can you throw a 1/32 jig on the Shakespeare? I see a lot of guys using the Presso to throw jigs for trout. Would the action on the 7’ UL be more similar to the Presso?

[@ifishcatfish]

I don't have the UL. I have the Light. You can see the action in the video

[@G3Steve]

@@ifishcatfish I guess I’m asking if the Shakespeare L could cast 1/32 jigs (without a bobber) as far as the Presso. Seems the softer tip on the Presso would create more velocity for distance.

[@HazyIPA15]

These rods are complete garbage. In less than 20 days of owning a 1lb bass broke the tip. It's the classic example of "you get what you pay for". Having said that, I agree with you the Daiwa Presso is an excellent rod. Daiwa has really upped their budget game the last 10 years. Amazing rods and reels.

[@ifishcatfish]

That blank has a lot of glass. Ive used it a lot, boat flipping everything.. You can see it in my videos. U may have gotten something damaged, or u damaged it in transportation. This is not a fragile blank, even though it is ultralight

[@antonmilanov6118]

Where do you get the cork sealer? If you share a link would be great. Thanks.

[@ifishcatfish]

www.amazon.com/U-INC-U-40-Sealant/dp/B075VC6JZS/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=rod+cork+seal&qid=1550162027&s=gateway&sr=8-1

[@ifishcatfish]

to be honest i ran out of my bottle and now I use just cheap polyurethane that I bought for other purpose. Seals very well too, but it does have a lot of warnings on the label, so I never recommend that to people..

[@viper2788]

@@ifishcatfish Seems like you do more than a single layer of the u40 cork seal... i do it twice to get that gloss finish. Anyway, do you think the polyurethane is more durable than the u40? Also, what brand did you use?

[@ifishcatfish]

Yes, I do more than one layer. Not for gloss finish but to fill the cracks in the corks. I actually don't like the gloss finish. Sometimes i will roughen the finish with rough sandpaper to make it look more natural. Poly is more durable for sure, but there are some health concerns on the label, so I would never recommend that. The brand of Poly really doesn't matter though and I think mine is Minwax but I don't even know. I bought something that said triple protection for Marine use, because I actually bought the Poly to build some racks for my boat. The wood on my boat looks the same, if u go watch my boat videos.

[@Anthony_626]

So you recommend the 6'6" light action best for jigging?

[@williammorgan1452]

Jesus loves you!

[@ifishcatfish]

i wish he would tell me that

[@CaptDavesSportfishing]

you need to move! I think the ice is effecting you. ......really? you're picky? NAW, no way.

[@ifishcatfish]

Im trying to move. I am going for training in our Georgia office in March, for training that I don't need, just to take a look at out office down there, and if I would like it.

[@CaptDavesSportfishing]

@@ifishcatfish compared to Chicago, whats not to like...LOL

[@ifishcatfish]

Atlanta has a huge 'Chicago' neighborhood too... I want to see whats around our office

[@CaptDavesSportfishing]

@@ifishcatfish oh hell yeah.......get out your gattlin gun and armored car!! shithole dark, it has a plenty!

[@muze-tessa6938]

Shakespeare is so cheap and awesome dawai is not worth it for 80.

[@ifishcatfish]

yes, i have some really nice rods and i still have the shakespeare rod with me on every trip.

[@ifishcatfish]

which daiwa is $80 by the way?

[@209chevymon]

Shakespeare light or eagle claw light? Im having a hard time deciding reason why is im target golden shiners and want a rod thats sensitive enough to feel the bite cant catch them with my bigger rods so im trying to downsize my setup to catch them

[@ifishcatfish]

Shakespeare will be better for that but correct answer is buy both before they are discontinued. If you know what model you want I can give u an amazon link that will support my channel and wont cost u anything. That eagle claw rod is pure gold, even though not as sensitive

[@209chevymon]

@@ifishcatfish well i looked at both from my local walmart and for some reason the eagle claw felt more sensitive to me but i still decided to wait to make my decision after i did a little homework first and to see if you had anything to say about them and sure enough you had both on your channel but the ones i was comparing at the store where the 5'6 models and i heard you say anything under the 7' models are trash so i gotta go back and do some more comparisons dang shiners got me losing my marbles lol

[@ifishcatfish]

6'6 models are still very good. 5'6 are very wobbly on the shakespeare. Make sure u get L power on the shakespeare, not UL. The eagle clas is a heavy glass rod and it only comes in ML power and up - it can't be sensitive due to weight and the thick blank. Shakespeare has some graphite and much thinner and lighter blank and will be more sensitive. It has lighter guides also. These rods are so cheap and such good value that you should buy both of them. Many people want to buy them but they don't have them in their local stores, especially the eagle claw is very hard to find. Consider yourself lucky.

[@209chevymon]

@@ifishcatfish But in the title and description you say best UL but at 2:08 the text say its a 7' L im getting confused now lol 7' is the max length i wanna purchase so 6'6 or 7' im ok with just wanna no what action will do me better for those golden shiners gunna go try and get some today if i can make some time later

[@ifishcatfish]

7' Light is the best rod in the lineup in my opinion, and the real action is UL. What they sell as UL is way too wobbly. As for title... UL is a thing.. Light is not a thing.. I know its confusing but I believe technically everything is correct. The 7' Light power is the best budget UL rod in my opinion. U can get the 6'6 Light too, but if u fish from the bank its better to go with the 7'. It has no wobble and u can even jig with it..