My Thoughts On The FENWICK ELITE Light Finesse Rod

After several fishing trips with the Fenwick Elite Light Finesse Rod, I felt it was finally time to make a video on this stick. I have the 6'9 Light power, Fast action, model and it has been good to me since getting it from my friend Steve last fall.
In today's trip, I was primarily focused on shallow spawning Crappie. I wanted to fish for slabs with this rod because I feel it excels at Crappie fishing. While it is considered a fast action, I feel it is a bit wobbly towards the 3rd guide down. Hard to showcase, but it kind of loads on a cast down the blank a bit, so I feel it acts a bit less than a true fast. I don't think there is anything wrong with that necessarily, but you should be aware as it will impact what techniques this rod will do best with.
In my opinion, this rod is a good pickup if you plan to fish primarily Crappie or other larger panfish. I personally prefer a more fast rod if I am fishing for other species or want more versatility.
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[@RomanMoroniesFargingWall]

Your uber productive fishing trips finally got me to pull the trigger on an UL setup. Found a 5'6" 13 Defy Silver at a local tackle shop that I paired with a Daiwa Regal LT 1000 from my local BPS. Of course, that meant I had to place my (first) order with Mule Fishing! Can't wait to throw around some Mule jigs with Burro Bugs, Donkey Tail Jrs, and Horse Flies on south Louisiana sac-a-lait and bream!

[@leomortimer2565]

That is a nice set-up you have! Congratulations!

[@RomanMoroniesFargingWall]

@@leomortimer2565 Thanks! I've been really impressed with my 2500 series Daiwa Regal on my "bass rig", and the 1000 series seems to be just as nice. First evening out with the UL rig, and I caught 12 panfish and dinky bass in 75min. Not bad for a 10 minute walk from the house. 😉 Especially compared to my success rate with bass fishing! 😆

[@chipseiler1766]

I have 2 of those Regal 1000's. Can not beat them for the price. Congrats on the UL setup. Funny you posted on this particular video. My Fenwick Eagle UL rod was purchased when I lived in LA. Used to live in Baton Rouge, LA. That's where I started fishing again, as an adult. (That was 1979 - 1989) I had an UL rod that had somehow, unbeknownst to me, worked its way into the door handle of my jeep. I went around to the passenger side, opened the door to get my rod and tackle box out, and broke it in half. I cried... ran to the local Sports Unlimited, and bought my first "expensive" UL rod for about $30! That rod, along with my $25 Shakespeare UL reel was my first "big" investment into UL fishing. ...All those Mule plastics will kill those LA sac-a-lait and bream! Those LA fish are why I started fishing UL!!!

[@fishingmaster99]

Be careful every 13 fishing rod ive held the guides moved really weird but true

[@FishAnything]

I am so happy to hear you are joining the wonderful world of ultralight fishing. You won't regret it! Thanks for the support and tight lines :)

[@JerryN856]

Very relaxing and informative video. Love your Mule jigs. Went out this morning and caught some nice bluegill and bass on the Horse Fly in Dakota Sunrise and 1/32 jig. Thanks for sharing.

[@FishAnything]

Love to hear it! Thank you so much, Jerry :)

[@ryanr85]

Another video, letsssss gooo! Glad you’re still doing the rod reviews.

[@FishAnything]

Thanks Ryan!

[@Cancino99]

The return policy for each company is always helpful. 👍👍

[@FishAnything]

Definitely need to think about that. Thank you Noah!

[@LBOOutdoors]

The Fenwick HMG inshore is my favorite rod here in SWFL (medium light, 7 1/2 foot). Glad someone finally posted with this rod, been looking for a light/ultralight rod for my next acquisition. Tight lines! 🤙🏻

[@FishAnything]

I hear great things about that HMG. Might have to try one!

[@rosariocannistraro3561]

The Elite Tech series they used to make were money , Especially the River Runner trout series but they don't make any of those lines anymore except the bass one for some stupid reason .

[@calebprice304]

Just got my order of burro bugs and the new purple jig heads in. Took them out today and wore them out. You have out done your self again. Thank you for your products and videos. I have learned so much from you. Mule fishing is my number one bait to use. Thank you Ethan. God bless brother if your ever in wv hit me up. P S. Have you ever considered bring t-shirts in for mule fishing?

[@FishAnything]

Thank you so much, Caleb! I truly appreciate your ongoing support and kind words. The sun shirts I added for Mule aren't selling super fast so I am not sure if I will do shirts or not. Maybe a t shirt at some point! Good suggestion :)

[@calebprice304]

@@FishAnything I am going to try and get one. If you can do a post for when your going to remove them!

[@aronziegler1814]

My son and I both caught fish on your products today! The pasture fire burro bugs and horse fly are both amazing!

[@FishAnything]

I absolutely love to hear it! Thank you Aron.

[@nyewang]

I got this same rod from Fenwick through warranty replacement. My old elite river broke 2 years in and they replaced it no questions asked with this elite light. Only cost me $10 shipping and I didn't' even need to ship my broken rod back. What great customer service. I paired it with one of the new Daiwa MQ 2000 and it balances great. I fished 3" swimbait and caught a few 15" smallmouth and it was so much fun.

[@joshwestfall8750]

Which one u like better?

[@nyewang]

@@joshwestfall8750 I loved my elite tech river rods. Had two but both broke this year. I caught probably 500 + fishes on those rods including some big 5lb+ trout, salmon and bass. The new elite lights have a better grip but I preferred the tech rivers. That said, there is not much difference and both models are enjoyable to fish.

[@joshwestfall8750]

@@nyewang oh ok I have the elite tech but was thinking of buying the new one. Is the sensitivity about the same?

[@nyewang]

@@joshwestfall8750 The Elite light in same power rating is definitely thinner and lighter than the Elite tech river. The feel is probably a little better too as the blank seems to be more sensitive. But I wouldn't' call it a night and day difference. I just held them side by side and personally the new grip is way better IMHO too.

[@joshwestfall8750]

@@nyewang ok thanks for the feed back

[@DEATHDLR]

Love the vids and the products keep putting out the amazing content!

[@FishAnything]

Thanks so much - I definitely will :)

[@FishingWithChris_Tv]

UT vols here. I still get goosebumps at our win over Alabama last year. You could feel the energy in neyland stadium though the tv lol

[@FishAnything]

I was pulling for them to take the SEC. Hope they can be the top dogs next year. I am tired of seeing UGA & Bama win.

[@FishingWithChris_Tv]

@@FishAnything same but I’d rather see UGA take the national title over Alabama any day.

[@papilloncycles3463]

I love my Fenwick Eagle UL moderate spinning rod, 5'6" very whippy, but good panfish rod

[@FishAnything]

The Eagle is a really sick rod. To your point, it isn't fast like I like them, but it is definitely a great rod for people who want a bit more moderate taper.

[@StumpkillerCP]

One of my favorire UL spinning rods is a 15 (+/-) year old Fenwick Eagle. Just a sweet and light rod that feels good in the hand.

[@chipseiler1766]

I have a 5' Fenwick Eagle Graphite ultra lite rod. It was my first big Ultra Lite investment. About $30!!! It's around 37 years old. Don't fish with more than once a year now, but it is still a great little rod. Great for blue gill with small jig and cork rig, or just ye old 1/32 - 1/16 oz jig and soft plastic.

[@FishAnything]

The day will come for me to stop testing rods and consolidate to my favorite rods. I do these to help steer people into what will be best for them, but I think it is wildly more important to get a good rod and use it than constantly buy new ones. I love to hear that you both have such time tested rods that keep working for you.

[@madam497]

I picked up a Phenix Feather Light 7'1 on sale for my bfs setup. It's fun hooking up to smalllies.

[@FishAnything]

Awesome! I just got a Phenix in the mail and look forward to testing it.

[@michaelloucks4448]

Hey fish anything wait till you catch a 4 lb bass on that light rod you'll have a blast. Have a great fishing season this year and God bless you and your family.

[@FishAnything]

Oh yeah, I catch a lot of random large fish on my light and ultralight rods. That is about as fun as it gets :) Tight lines!

[@troyseal9877]

Nice! I'm looking at the 6'3".

[@FishAnything]

Let me know your thoughts if you get it. I find that the load on a cast is a little goofy feeling. Would be curious what you think.

[@paulgiannetto5317]

Hi have tried various UL and L rods including Leland TCB, Kuying Superlite Ajing, Loomis GL2 UL etc but have settled on the TFO 6.5 foot UL which I found has a lovely fish playing action and lots of sensitivity having felt bluegill takes on spinners on the drop. However, I have ordered a Megabass Triza Yamasemi 3 piece rod and hope it will be the best. Comes with 2 tops solid and hollow. I also suggest trying a CU Double in spin model only about $50 as it has 2 tops in a quality IM8 carbon blank. Tight Lines

[@FishAnything]

Ohhhh man you need to let me know what you think of that Megabass! I agree the TFO is a stellar option for the price.

[@fish4usa433]

I just went through their warranty department for my elite tech bass and the are amazing replacement rod is the new elite bass, with it arriving within a week

[@FishAnything]

Love to hear it! Glad they took care of you.

[@Saint838]

Ok, my man I need some advice. As a kid, my dad bought an ultralight setup and loved fishing with it. This setup is no more. I would like to get him a fresh setup for Father's Day. He does fish with jigs at times but mostly crickets, shinners, weight, and bobber are the go-to. Price is no option but I would like to get him the best setup. Thanks in advance just found your videos this weekend.

[@FishAnything]

I think a Temple Fork Trout & Panfish with a size 1000 or 2000 shimano or daiwa reel would be a great setup for him. That rod is really versatile and will be a load of fun for him to fish with. I personally like the 6' model because it balances best in my opinion. Otherwise, feel free to DM me on instagram if you want to discuss further. Always happy to help as best I can, especially for a Father's Day present!

[@austinhall485]

Would love to see your review on the st croix trout series 6'6 light action rod, ive seen you do the panfish series and curious of the difference

[@FishAnything]

I will definitely keep this in mind. Thank you Austin!

[@shawneldridge4465]

🎣 the rod seems to be pretty much holding its own, which is a good thing and the reel itself, I say pretty good too. Like always another great video and nothing but good fish catching here.

[@FishAnything]

Thank you Shawn :)

[@shawneldridge4465]

@@FishAnything Very welcome you are

[@mattygames1369]

I just got a Shakespeare micro UL for my dad and replaced my pflueger Trion with a president, gave him some new trilene fluoro 6lb line. Hope he enjoys

[@FishAnything]

That’s nice of you!! I’m sure he will

[@michaelapanasewicz9967]

Do a review on the new 2024 ugly stik 6' 6" light action gx2 spinning rod

[@brianathern9154]

Great rod review video Ethan. Like a good side-by-side price point comparison. How about a $50-$70 price point combo? Interested on your take on the Lews Laser Lite Speed combo in 5'6. I just got it out twice since my birthday and man am I impressed. Didn't think the 500 series reel was going to cut it but...I'm wrong. With 5# Power Pro braided line it's slinging 1/16 ounce baits across the pond. It's amazingly light but balanced. Blessings brother I've rambled enough

[@FishAnything]

I still need to try a dang Lews setup! Thanks again for the suggestion, Brian.

[@brianathern9154]

@@FishAnything I'm giving that combo it's creek smallies trial Saturday

[@tonyhernandez4185]

I second that suggestion . I also have that rod, I’ve caught plenty of fish with it. I’d like to know how a rod I own holds up to other rods out there.

[@RuleJake413]

Did you do any fishing in Florida? I was just there in march it was like a dream come true

[@FishAnything]

I was there for family vacation and didn't get a chance to fish. Mostly chased my toddler son around lol

[@camhester4251]

i like that Tatula i'm thinking about getting one myself

[@FishAnything]

Pretty good reel!

[@danthompson1467]

Great video 👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@FishAnything]

Thanks Dan! Tight lines :)

[@bubblebreeze1635]

Early in the video you mentioned there were other rods you would prefer for bluegils, which models would those be? I'm trying to pick a nicer mid level UL rod. I almost got an UL omen panfish from american legacy but when my order went through they were already sold out and no longer stocking 13 fishing. So now i need to pick another rod

[@FishAnything]

For that price range, I’d look into the TFO. If you want to get a bit nicer rod, the Dobyns Sierra is my absolute favorite. Otherwise you can pay less and get a 13 fishing defy silver, shimano sensilite, or kastking kestrel. All great options!

[@bubblebreeze1635]

@@FishAnything thanks for the reply! I'll put the TFO on my short list

[@carlitosverduzco88]

I went to Mule site all the good stuff is Sold out geezz. What lure is that your using orange color on top then lighter I don’t see it on your Mule website.

[@FishAnything]

It’s a Cowpoke Mule Minnow. And good news everything should be back in stock really soon! Sorry about that.

[@MichaelRomero]

If I had to pick out of the two I would take the Fenwick. It Looks like the better rod and It didn't seem like it was more moderate than the TFO in the video. But that being said everybody has their preference and maybe you're just used to the TFO from using it a lot longer. I do a lot of trout fishing so the Fenwick looks like it would be much better at that as well.

[@FishAnything]

Definitely some fair points! It is hard to showcase visually the feel of this rod. When I go to cast it, it has a bit more “wobble” down the blank which is why I feel it acts a bit less fast than the TFO. They have a similar flex, but the TFO loads differently on a cast/initial hookset. Either way, I’m not ragging on either. Both great rods, but they feel a bit different to fish with. Felt it was worth noting.

[@MichaelRomero]

@@FishAnything I wonder if the TFO is a graphite blank and if The Fenwick is carbon. I know that some anglers prefer the graphite over carbon because of It having a faster feeling action than a carbon rod. So when moving from less expensive rod like an Okuma and get a St. Croix they prefer the casting action of the graphite rod over the carbon.

[@Tree-vis]

​@@MichaelRomero tfo claims that the trout and panfish is 100% carbon fiber

[@guitarplayer222333]

​@@Tree-vis I've been trying to find out the material it's made from on their site and can't find it anywhere. I'm curious where you found that info

[@Justin-zw1hx]

Could you please explain why fishing crappie need a little softer stick(less fast action)? And why a faster rod is better for general panfish? Thanks!

[@FishAnything]

It is all about their mouths. Next time you catch a Bluegill and a Crappie, compare the mouth. The Crappie is often called "paperlips" because they are so thin and a hook can rip through easily. Important to soften your rod blank if you can. A Bluegill or other sunfish have a much harder, solid mouth like a bass.

[@Justin-zw1hx]

@@FishAnything thank you

[@plumbplumb458]

how do you like the 832 in the 6lb size? i use 832 for my larger rods and enjoy it. I tried the nanobraid when it first came out but i was not impressed with it. just wondering if get the 832 in 6lb is a good idea or if i should try some different brands. i use the Diawa fluoro leader mainly because i love the size of the spools and the keeper they come with.

[@FishAnything]

The 832 is definitely a good braid, however I find that J Braid or Spro Finesse Braid are smoother and tend to out-cast it with light weights. Just my experience!

[@plumbplumb458]

@@FishAnything what j braid do you recommend? They have 3 or 4 different kinds I believe

[@SukatFishing]

Is the tfo also a light? Or UL? If not maybe that contributes to a little of the castability difference?

[@FishAnything]

Yeah, this was a 7' UL power, so not apples to apples. I was just giving a point of reference, but they are not quite the same stick. I do think there is something funky with the taper of the Fenwick though. It loads a little down from the tip on casts which is a bit new to me.

[@chillfish702]

Just watching you reach to lip a fish with a treble bait in it’s mouth makes me feel like I hear horror movie music playing. I’ve had a treble hook under a fingernail and it was awful, I got it stuck there just trying to grab the bait and being careless. I can’t imagine having a fish shake and drive that hook in there. I’d probably be 😭👶

[@FishAnything]

Haha yeah man it was not a fun experience. I need to be more careful, but *knock on wood* I have had a pretty lucky track record.

[@brandenjuan5735]

I can’t find any Videos on light rod fishing. Any suggestions

[@FishAnything]

Most of the ultralight rods I review also come in light models so I think you could still get value from those.

[@Tree-vis]

What is your favorite polarized lense? (Brand and name of lense) i feel my costas are one of my most important pieces of gear

[@FishAnything]

I always wear Costas. I can't recall the exact model/lens but they are 580 glass. I believe Amber tint with green lens I want to say?

[@Tree-vis]

@@FishAnything probably copper green mirror. Good choice!

[@joeyb3102]

What would you say is a good trout rod for a bass fisherman?

[@FishAnything]

Fenwick eagle and the temple fork trout and panfish

[@NattyState]

When will mule fishing have it's own rod

[@FishAnything]

I would love to have my own someday, but I am not sure if I will go that route or not to be honest. Lots of factors involved, but making sure it is high quality and built to last would be hugely important. I will certainly not rush a rod project.

[@joshwestfall8750]

What rods would u suggest over this rod in the same price range? I’m curious cause I own this rod but in the ultra light and looking to buy another ultra light to go along with this one

[@FishAnything]

If you are willing to spend $30 more, the Dobyns Sierra Trout & Panfish is night and day better (in my opinion). Otherwise, I feel a 6' TFO is a good alternative. Anything above 6' starts to have a poor balance sadly. The St Croix Panfish Series is a bit tip heavy for my liking but it is a very popular option as well. I will keep looking out for more - never hesitate to reach out!

[@joshwestfall8750]

@@FishAnything ok thanks

[@mattygames1369]

What kind of kayak is that

[@FishAnything]

Old town sportsman pdl 120

[@JD.California_monkey_mackerel]

Hello happy fishing 🎣 memorial day ❤️🤍💙🪖🇺🇲 thank you to all the USA mean women and everyone in the military 🎖️🪖 for there service and to all the veterans 🥁 I have a question my friend I just got a medium light spinning combo I was going to get some jig hads but I didn't know what oz size or what color jig hads to get can you please help thank you

[@FishAnything]

I echo these nice comments! Thanks for drawing light to it. For your setup, I would go with the 1/16oz or 3/32oz Mule Jigs! Great for Ned Rig style applications.

[@JD.California_monkey_mackerel]

@@FishAnything hello my friend your very welcome thank you very much for answering my question I'm going pier fishing tomorrow Friday

[@mazlanzelan3101]

Do you have RAPALA KERANGA rod 1-3lb

[@FishAnything]

No, I have never heard of it, but I would love to try one!

[@justindawson3872]

What reels do you use

[@FishAnything]

I use a variety, but most are size 1000 or 2000 shimano or daiwa reels.

[@josephwatts8147]

I had one. It broke on cast two. I had to send in the rod, but they paid for shipping and refunded my money.

[@FishAnything]

Ooof! Must have had an existing weak spot. Maybe something during transit?

[@josephwatts8147]

@@FishAnything that was my guess.

[@byronrhamy1199]

Ionia Mich here

[@FishAnything]

Fellow Gander! Sup Byron :)