2021 Ultralight Rod Breakdown! [Comparing All My Ultralights]

Over the course of 2021, I have picked up and tested numerous ultralight rods. In today's video, I walk through my high level thoughts of each rod & share my personal favorites. Ultimately, personal preference is a huge factor when it comes to fishing gear so my recommendation is to always fish what feels right for you!
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CHECK OUT THESE VIDEOS FOR MORE DETAILS:
Shakespeare Micro Series: • SHAKESPEARE MICRO SERI...
Okuma Celilo: • Fishing With The OKUMA...
13 Fishing Defy Silver: • 13 Fishing DEFY SILVER...
Fenwick Eagle: • Fishing With The FENWI...
Daiwa Presso Travel Rod: • Fishing With The DAIWA...
Temple Fork Trout & Panfish: • TEMPLE FORK Trout & Pa...
St. Croix Panfish Series: • ST CROIX PANFISH Serie...
Dobyns Sierra Trout & Panfish: • Fishing With The DOBYN...
As of right now, I plan to test out several more ultralight rods throughout 2022. What rods do you want me to test? COMMENT BELOW!
Check out Mule Fishing: www.mulefishing.com/
***I own the company. Supporting Mule helps me continue to make content like this.
Thank you very much for watching. I hope you are catching a lot of fish :)

[@Tsaustin1]

This is a great video-excellent job describing the pros and cons of each. I'm looking to upgrade my UL soon so I found it very helpful.

[@FishAnything]

Heck yeah! That BPS stick I told you I was waiting on came in broken lol so give me a bit of time before I have an opinion 🤣

[@firstnamelastname-of7nt]

Love this vid!! Was very helpful Bc I was looking at some of them!! Tight lines🎣🎣

[@FishAnything]

Hope you find a great setup :) Thank you!

[@davidcloyd1296]

Great video! Thank you for respecting my time by talking fast and providing info!

[@FishAnything]

Haha I am a fast talker for sure. Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@ronnetaylor7866]

I've been waiting for this video. I have the Dobyns & the 13 fishing silver and now have to take a peek at the TFO. I also prefer the faster action rods. I drive TT in the northeast region at night and listening ( not watching! ) to your videos help make my trips more enjoyable. Thanks for the great videos & keep on kayaking!🐟

[@FishAnything]

That’s awesome thank you very much for the support! Yeah I think you’ll like the TFO for a slightly less fast option that makes it a bit more versatile. All three are great!

[@mattnguyen1672]

The micro series with size 20 president was my first ultralight! That combo was dope. I caught trout, gills, bass and even rockfish with it on the California coast! Was unbreakable for me. I gave it to a friend who started to get into fishing, and she loved how light the combo was.

[@FishAnything]

That is awesome! Glad you spread the love and gave it away. Very nice of you!

[@mattnguyen1672]

@@FishAnything Yup and she is lucky! She catches trout with it in 70 yards deep of water when we could barely catch any bluegills in the heat of summer! She also caught a vermillion rockfish with it in santa cruz with a sabiki rig. Amazing.

[@fishsmack]

Great review Ethan! Thanks for the great content. Have a great day, and be safe.

[@FishAnything]

Thank you :) glad you liked it!

[@rogerharvey1698]

I have both the 4’6” Micro, and two 5’6” Cellios. And yes, though they do get used in many different scenarios, they are my go to’s during spring and fall crappie season. The Micro can cast 1/32oz jigs effectively, and the whippy nature of the Cellio’s make them excellent choices for presenting slip bobber rigged minnows to soft mouthed crappies. As I commented in response to an earlier video, I regularly hook and land 30’+ pike on my ultralight crappie gear. My advice, always bring a wide hoop landing net, and never “horse” a big pike hooked on light gear. Finesse is the only strategy. Set the drag somewhat low, let them run, steer the fish rather than pull, and always expect it to make another run, up until the point it is in the net. Of course my all around all season casting rod is a fairly stout fast action ultra light.

[@flyfishingfool2011]

Good stuff as always!!🎣🔥🔥🔥

[@FishAnything]

Thank you :)

[@kenappleby8481]

I'm still loving my 13 Fishing Defy Silver, thanks to your recommendation! Gills and crappie, been a great year of upping my panfish game!

[@FishAnything]

Heck yeah Ken! Can't go wrong with that stick

[@ZachCanPlay]

I totally subbed after this vid. Fantastic content here, dude. 🤜🤛

[@FishAnything]

Thank you so much!!

[@roddg]

Great summary, thanks, this is really helpful!

[@FishAnything]

Thank you Rodd, glad you enjoyed it!

[@kevinteaford6694]

Ethan, I've been looking at ultralight rod/reel/line to crappie and bass fishing in small streams in Central Ohio. Your videos have been extremely helpful and your overview of equipment is super helpful. I just made my first Mule Fishing purchase. Thank you!

[@FishAnything]

Thanks so much!!!

[@dustinnorman2658]

I'm glad to see you finally getting around to make this video. I've purchased the 13 Fishing and the TFO based on your recommendations and I could not agree more with your assessments of each. I wish 13 Fishing would make the Defy in a 6ft though.

[@FishAnything]

Yeah, they really should have a 6' model! Glad you enjoyed the video Dustin :)

[@mattnguyen1672]

Been waiting for this video! The 13 fishing defy silver has been my go-to for powerbait or 1/4 oz rooster tails. Phenix elixir for spoons. Waiting on shipment of tfo rod for finesse micro jigs. Thanks for the video!

[@FishAnything]

I will try one of those Phenix rods eventually. Very pricey but probably worth a try :)

[@shawnp3317]

Those are some slick looking hats in the background!

[@FishAnything]

Available on the Mule Fishing website :)

[@CREEKFISHING423]

Another awesome video! I swerved lanes though with the light and ultralight rods I just bought myself for Christmas 😁 I went BPS Panfish Elite on both. Definitely looking into the TFO though.

[@FishAnything]

I might have to try that BPS Panfish Elite! Thanks for watching :)

[@brunobormann-ultralightfish]

Yeeew, Oooh my god💥🎥 Amazing setup rods UL Bud!! Like this🙏🎣.

[@FishAnything]

UL 4 LIFE

[@oldeschoolbob1022]

Great summary, Ethan, thank you. I liked your emphasis on personal preference, as it's really crucial to what's right for each person. I own three of your reviewed rods: The Celilo, the 13 Fishing Defy Silver and the TFO Trout / Panfish - and have found your reviews to be pretty much spot-on. You give a great sense of how a rod feels and behaves; it really helped me with the purchase decision. All three were just as I expected them to be when I received them; they passed my grab-and-shake with flying colors. Looking forward to more of these in 2022. Thanks again!

[@FishAnything]

Awesome! Thanks so much. Glad to hear you agree with my commentary after fishing many of the same rods I have. Tight lines buddy

[@matthewbeaven6706]

Thanks for the reviews Ethan! I picked up the Defy Silver based on the video you did and have been very happy with it! Just a suggestion but you could switch to spinning reel reviews in 22'.

[@FishAnything]

I was thinking about spinning reel videos however I find it hard to tell a short term difference between most spinning reels. Usually, it is more of a long term analysis to decide if a reel is good/bad.

[@danthompson1467]

About 20 years ago I bought a All star 5 ft Rod at Dicks it was around 120.00 it broke a few years ago there not in business anymore it was a fantastic rod great balance and stiffness I’ve never found any thing like it yet but I will. Great video thank you for the tips

[@FishAnything]

Interesting! I remember that company but never tried their stuff. Sorry to hear it broke on you :(

[@davidkaufman7979]

My Cabela's All Pro ultralight from the 90's is still going strong after all these years. I've caught everything from panfish to bass to catfish 🎣

[@FishAnything]

Heck yeah! That is what it's all about. Find one you like and fish it into the dirt :) I have been experimenting a ton but I don't envision myself doing this forever. At a certain point, I will just stick to a few of them.

[@Jacobr-jx6yk]

Great video man!!

[@FishAnything]

Thank you!!

[@nicholasbiesenthal203]

great video! super informative! thanks ethan

[@FishAnything]

Thank you NB :)

[@shawneldridge4465]

I was up Cabela's right before trout fishing season open up last year and got a nice little spinning rod and real combo. It's a Bass pro shop crappie maxx signature series Plus 6'6" and I can use anywhere from 2 to 8 pound test line, also I could use a 1/64 oz up to a 1/4oz. And it's a power medium light Plus a fast action g20. I only paid $35.00 for it, truly is a nice little rod and reel combo, I use it more for trout fishing than anything. Great video, great information and great tips. 👍👍👍👍

[@FishAnything]

Definitely thinking about some BPS setups for this year's UL rod breakdowns. Thanks for the intel Shawn :)

[@noahbeu1515]

Love these type of videos sometimes you need to hear how they feel in hand the description doesn't always do it justice when shopping online

[@FishAnything]

Thanks Noah I hope it helps!

[@j.t.cooper2963]

👍🏻😎 Ultralight fishing gear is my favorite. I've had one of those $20 Shakespeare 4'6 Micro Series rod for almost 8 years now and no problems, tons of bluegills caught. Including my PB 10" bluegill.

[@FishAnything]

That’s awesome! I’m glad to hear it’s worked really well for you! I bet that 10” was a heck of a fight!!

[@adamkaralus5468]

I’m still rocking the Shakespeare micro series, love it, I took it on tiny brook trout trickles and it is excellent for surgical casting in and around heavy brush and trees. I do like that Fenwick eagle though, my buddy has it and used it for inland trout it’s his favorite rod he owns. Interesting watching you find your niche from a bass fisherman and 5-minute fish talks to a true UL guru.

[@FishAnything]

Awesome! Definitely agree that Shakespeare is a $$$ rod for the price. And yeah, funny how my fishing journey is all shaking out! XD

[@mrs.vasquezz]

Honestly im thinking about just picking up a 2nd Micro as a backup/alternate lure rod, im really loving how every fish is a fight now compared to messing with big heavy baitcasters

[@mysuperchargedlife]

I'm getting the 13 Fishing Defy Silver for Christmas. Can't wait to try it out!

[@PrimeMKTO]

Excellent choice

[@FishAnything]

Sounds to me like Christmas is going to be very jolly at the Nickles house :) I think you'll enjoy it!

[@Sweetaccord]

@Jeff, You will like it a lot. I have them and they are well made and super inexpensive with great action. I have G. Loomis IMX and GLX and the 13 acts very similar as fast action and light. They are VERY well made. The Loomis are a whole different world, being Multi-taper. Once you fish with one you won't want to use anything else. 😉

[@fishingfreaks4488]

Omg so did I. I got the 7ft ultralight for Christmas too. Gotten everything from trout, bass, walleye on it

[@jonhammes6209]

That's a very good quality rod, feels very close to the TFO and Dobyns

[@midwestshoreangler9127]

The Whip’R Rods are nice ultralight rods in the affordable range. I’ve caught some nice trout and smallmouths on it. Even caught an Atlantic salmon this last spring on it. It’s got a super sensitive tip on it and makes it easy to feel super light bites.

[@FishAnything]

Interesting, I will have to check them out!

[@FitzYakin]

Great comparison of the ULs you fished wit this past year. I like the Daiwa Presso travel rod (still need to watch the video where you fished with it) as it'd be a cool hiking/camping trip rod. And my fav is the TFO. I love mine. Balanced, great all around tip and just feel.s right

[@FishAnything]

Heck yeah Fitzy :) it is a solid rod for exactly that. I actually feel bad that I don't feel I am using it for what it is intended for often enough. Might have to travel more XD Glad to hear you are loving the TFO as well. I think that is the most versatile, multi-use, ultralight I have felt. Big fan!

[@brianathern9154]

Like some others here I've fished and just gave away a 5 foot Shakespeare micro rod and reel. Love it for just about every kind of ultralight lures. Paid it forward. I've got a 6' St Croix for creeks and a Bass Pro Wally Marshall 6'6 1 piece combo for everything else. Wouldn't trade any of those but I know where to get more Shakespeare combos to get people ultralight fishing. Well done Ethan

[@FishAnything]

Paying it forward is one of the best things we can do as anglers! Thanks Brian :)

[@troyseal9877]

Spot on man. I love the 13 fishing defy silvers. I also thing the st croix are tip heavy. I'm not a fan. I also agree the tfo is a very versatile rod. Good review. I have a Daiwa kage 6'1" that is my favorite.

[@FishAnything]

The Kage is a superb rod! Glad we agree on all these points :) Tight lines Troy

[@armandorjusino]

I got the Shakespeare on my last trip to FL and is slaying in streams, creeks and lake bank fishing here in PR. On my next trip definitely getting a couple more UL rods and that TFO is gonna be one of them, thanks.

[@FishAnything]

Right on! The TFO is definitely one of my go-to setups.

[@pauls3616]

Great video. Thank you👍

[@FishAnything]

Thank you Paul :)

[@Tightt88]

My favorite Ultra Light rod I bought this year is the Lew’s HS Ultra Light 5.6ft, fast action. For only $30 it actually amazing.

[@danthompson1467]

Yes you are so right I have a few of them I landed a 24’’ walleye with it do problems and a ton of small mouth

[@FishAnything]

Interesting... I will have to look into this! Thanks guys

[@Tightt88]

@@FishAnything you can find it at Walmart. They are yellow and grey.

[@mrs.vasquezz]

@@Tightt88 oh yea? Gotta look next time

[@personalc3573]

I picked up a 7ft Defy Silver ul 2 piece and am loving it, have it paired with a daiwa Laguna 1k with 6lb jbraird grand, awesome little rod have been whacking the specks and rat reds on it

[@FishAnything]

That sounds like a great setup! I need to try some of that 6lb J Braid

[@samuelwarden6285]

I just got the 13 Fishing Defy silver in the 6 1/2 ft UL. I used it yesterday in a creek and caught a smallmouth that was 15 1/2 inches long. What a way to break in a rod lol. I will probably pick up that rod in the light version for creek wading next summer. 👊👍

[@FishAnything]

That sounds like one heck of a good time! Happy to hear it has good juju :)

[@jessiehoch7541]

I’m expecting that 13 fishing defy silver to be under the Christmas tree. I can’t wait.

[@FishAnything]

Sounds like a Very Merry Christmas to me :)

[@seizedcarcass8440]

I got a canyon creek super ultralight from dunhams last year and I must say it’s my favorite ultralight. Super long and limber but still stout enough to fight big fish. It’s rated for lures weighted 1/4-1/64 ounce. Super nice all round rod.

[@FishAnything]

I have heard good things for the price. Will look into it!

[@michealphan3468]

Got my TFO less than a week ago and I really enjoy it! Unfortunately, I had the rod break about 10 inches below the tip while on a fishing trip this weekend. It broke not while getting the fish out of the water, rather while I was getting the hook out (there was minimal tension on the rod at this point). Hopefully it was just a defective rod as I would like to get another one but will definitely be doing some more research aka watching your videos. Keep up the great work!

[@FishAnything]

That is no good! I would highly recommend reaching out directly to Temple Fork and let them know. I bet they will take care of you.

[@douglashunt4958]

Lost my Fenwick back in April when I flipped the kayak. I have bought several rods this year trying to replace it. I branched out and tried a Lew's, Quantum, and ACC Crappiestix. So far the Quantum was the only one of those to come close but it just isn't sensitive enough. I've been eyeballing the 13 FIshing to give it a try..

[@FishAnything]

Dang I’m sorry to hear that! Fenwick makes a really solid rod! Don’t think you can go wrong with the defy either but it mostly comes down to what action you want. The defy is great for a fast action option 🤠

[@JohnJames.]

My first fly rod was a 6 wt hmx. Caught chum salmon with it. Was carp fishing landed one, kept fishing, noticed a cougar lurking. I lost the tip of my rod backing away through the weeds with my line out. I really want to go with a metal detector and look for it. Since I've got a made in usa full cork handle 7 wt hmg

[@joshuaarmand5236]

Which quantum rod do u have? I’m always on the lookout for a rod that performs well, but doesn’t break the bank!

[@douglashunt4958]

@@joshuaarmand5236 It is the Quantum 6' xtralite combo from Dick's. $45 right now on the website. Replace the reel (I have a $30 Shimano Sienna on it) as soon as you can but the rod is legit for cheap. Caught a lot of fish on that rod last year. I just bought a Lew's Speed Stick 6'8" UL for this year. Putting a Mach2 1000 reel on that one.

[@traviswhitworth6506]

I have a 7' ACC and like it a lot. I've caught a lot of bluegills, crappie, and bad on it. That said my favorite UL was a daiwa presso. It's at the bottom of Nolin lake😭. I have a TFO 6'6" ordered. I'm hoping I'll like it as much as that presso.

[@pequenioedgarito3067]

UPDATE 5/22: i revisited the recommendations for ultra light fishing using the 13 defy silver (2 pc) using the mule jig and mule baits. My original posting had a negative review . I had a terrible experience withnthe whole set up , rigging, and technique. But this year i went and changed thenoriginal 4lb mono over to 6lb mono using a wally marshall spinning reel 100. And WOW! All these techniques and set up DO WORK. Very soft and light. You can feel the bit. Caught fat plumpy Billgill these last few weeks with the weather warm up. Really will enjoy this summer 2022. Thank you Ethan. . No harm, no foul with my first review.

[@FishAnything]

So happy you have started to have a better experience! Keep it up and catch some big ones my friend :)

[@danielwright2355]

Solid video man. I have a St croix premier UL I've been liking. What are your thoughts on the bfs rods you have? And how do those compare to the spinning rods?

[@FishAnything]

Awesome! Lots of folks like that Premier. And I haven't honestly fished my BFS gear as much as I planned to. I truly do like spinning more (personal preference) however I do intend to play around with BFS more for trout this winter :)

[@tjsoutdoors308]

Awesome video keep up the good work 😎 you should do a rod reel arsenal sometime

[@FishAnything]

Thanks TJ! Might just have to :)

[@matttaylor9385]

Checking in with a TFO 6'6" UL that's been great, a Daiwa Presso 5'6" that's hilariously light and fits in my bicycle frame bag and a couple old micro series that I got to test the waters with UltraLight. The 5'6" Micro series snapped in half a couple weeks ago, but the 7' one is still going strong (for a soggy noodle of a rod).

[@FishAnything]

Awesome! Sounds like you have good taste in equipment 🤠

[@traviswhitworth6506]

I have the 6'6" micro light. It's going on 3 years now. It's a great budget rod imo.

[@keeganbowers4949]

Great video, looking to get another ultra light rod to go along with my 6' travel Presso. If you were to set aside the portability of the Presso how does the 13 fishing defy compare to it?

[@FishAnything]

It is a bit "stouter" rod so it doesn't have as much flex to it until you actually hook a fish (a true fast action). I love it for ultralight jig fishing!

[@michaelhebert8984]

Well tonight at 11 pm I got my delivery from Amazon canada (Not happy with the lateness of deliveryand they just left it outside and it could have been stolen However) . I now own my very first ULTRALIGHT at 5'6 feet The okuma celilo 2-6 lbs line and holds 1/32 to 1/4 lures. Now what I didn't know is just how skinny an ultralight rod is . lol !!! So kinda scared that it might break. And ya Ethan you were right about it being a bit whippy but like something new I'll get used to it eventually. So ahead of time my heartfelt thank you sir to introducing me to a new experience and having fun casting out donkey tail Jr's out for trout this coming spring 2022. Mike 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂

[@FishAnything]

SO EXCITED FOR YOU MIKE! Hope you catch tons of fish on that Celilo throughout 2022 :)

[@jasonstouder]

Excellent content.

[@FishAnything]

Thank you Jason :)

[@Lasurge1982]

I used to fish the celilo exclusively. It’ll catch fish. I noticed that when I switched to a premium ultralight rods my hookup ratio went up and I seemed to have an edge on everyone. I switched all my ultralights over to Phenix rods. But of course you can never have too many. Already want to try other premium brands.

[@FishAnything]

I really want to try a Phenix one of these days. Not a cheap rod, but they look nice!

[@arnbergrandylaurie8960]

Thank you for the highlights on the rods. Are you going to do hightlights on the reels you used? Thank you

[@FishAnything]

I am not sure if I will or won't, simply because spinning reels don't vary a ton. I have enjoyed all of the Daiwa or Shimano size 1000 reels I have picked up!

[@jonhammes6209]

After a season of fishing ultralight/light spinning gear on creeks here in the mountains of VA, here is my list. Keep in mind I fish with vintage reels (Penn, Daiwa, DAM, Garcia Mitchell, Shimano, Shakespeare, all from the 60's 70's and 80's) so my gear balances differently than modern ultralight reels. Also I fish with 2lb to 4lb fluorocarbon and monofilament. I purchased all of these rods. I'm only sponsored by hard work and a wife that loves fishing also! 1) TFO trout panfish, I love this rod! 1) tied with the Dobyns trout and panfish, it's a quality rod! 2) 13 Defy Silver ultralight, dang close second favorite 3) Fenwick Eagle ultralight, perfect creek rod 4) Okuma Celilo (I own one each of the ultralight lengths, excellent creek rod) 5) Shakespeare Micro, I own several, great value! 6) Lews Speed Stick ultralight, very fast! 7) Berkley Lightning Rod light (its really a ultralight) 8) St Croix Panfish Light, which is a true light power rod, but a little heavy for my style fishing. 9) Shimano Sojourn medium light, it's really a light power rod but will cast lighter lures than it says. Anyway, that's my list for 2022. Looking forward to some new rods for next year! Tight lines!

[@FishAnything]

That is a great list! I can't believe you put the Dobyns behind the TFO. But that is why it is important to remember personal preference is key. I personally like the Dobyns more, but I also fish a ton of jigs for panfish, so I have different preferences. Either way, our lists are very similar.

[@philipfalco7304]

@@FishAnything I use the TFO for sm. spinner/spoons for Trout (Moving baits) and the Dobyn's for jigs and twitching minnow baits.

[@michaellaird2581]

Helpful video! Looking for an ultralight or Light rod with fast action. Any thoughts on the St. Croix TSR66LF2 Triumph 6’6” /Light/Fast. Thx!

[@FishAnything]

Haven't used the Triumph yet! As mentioned, the Defy Silver or the Dobyns are both very fast action rods that I really like. I might try the Triumph eventually though :)

[@briancappilla8381]

Been fishing the Shakespeare Micro series for many years now, and I still love it! 4'6 is perfect for tiny creeks. I just bought a BPS MicroLite Glass 6' rod. Can't wait to fish it. For $25 it seems like it should be a fun little ultralight setup. Have you tried this rod in particular? Thoughts?

[@FishAnything]

Haven't used the MicroLite Glass yet. I typically don't like glass rods personally because of how whippy they are. For some fishing styles, that can be a good thing though. Definitely a neat rod!

[@craigstockton3103]

Having been fishing for over 58 years and being in the tackle business for 20 years one thing you learn is tackle likes and dislikes for subjective and personal taste and well as brand loyalty. I personally am a big G.Loomis fan, but when it comes to ultra light I love Phenix Rods. There Iron Feather, Elixir Series and Dragonfly are the best I have fished with. Not cheap and not everyone's budget but great rods.

[@FishAnything]

I definitely have Phenix on my list for next year. Pricey but worth a test :)

[@michaelhebert8984]

Ok I'm pretty much bank fishing for trout so here is my question. Plan 9n getting an Okuma rod but I would like to know if you had a preference would it be a 5 to 5'6 length or 6' foot ultralight ? Ya I will be trying out my horsefly & donkey Jr's as well as other soft baits I bought since last June, so much appreciated getting your opinion Ethan 🙂🙂🙂🙂 Mike Hebert Thanks.

[@FishAnything]

I would probably go with a 5'6 or 6' because I believe that model will be less whippy than the 6'6 that I got and hopefully perform better with super light lures (like the small Mule Jigs). The cast distance will be fine as long as you use low diameter line

[@James-oj6ck]

Nice review.

[@FishAnything]

🤠 thanks!

[@philippexd8727]

Hey online outdoorsman, I am looking at the fenwick eagle 5’6 because i throw alot of treble hook baits do you think it could handle big slabs and 2-3 pound smallies? Thank you for your time and i love your videos

[@FishAnything]

I’d probably bump up to a light action if you plan to go after bigger fish! But yeah it’ll be just fine otherwise

[@labape]

I have a 6 foot 6 inch. 13 fishing ultralight fast action. It may be my favorite rod. It’s at lest in the top 3. I got mine at a outdoor show for $25. Paired it with a pfluegr president xt c30

[@FishAnything]

That sounds like a steal of a deal! Tight lines Kyle :)

[@chasintrout5531]

Love all these rods

[@FishAnything]

A diverse selection of equipment is never a bad thing :)

[@Mike-po8bv]

I love my fenwick. I have a light action model and it is such a good all around rod paired with the pfluger president

[@FishAnything]

It is a great rod. Very comfortable to fish with. I simply prefer a fast action otherwise I would have kept it.

[@tonyplaysbass]

I have multiple combos with that setup from light up to medium heavy. the 25 Presidents are the best all around IMO, caught panfish up to giant Northerns with that size reel. My light fenwick has caught many nice bass. Hard to find anything better at that price point as well.

[@TheSpentPenny123]

It'll be a little while before I can upgrade my 2nd trout rod but that St. Croix Looks amazing. I have the Dobyn's Sierra frog rod which has blown me away and that Dobyn's looks great but I just started getting into fishing big swimbaitsfor bass and I need to pull back a bit more with my fishing purchases for a while.

[@FishAnything]

Them big swimbaits can definitely get spendy! Thanks for watching :)

[@poepflater]

looking for a spinning rod for 4 to 15g can probably compromise with a 10 or 11g max. would like one with a gri[p where fingers can touch the center rod directly

[@thomascooper6679]

Great video Ethan. Just found your channel while researching for a new trout stream ultra light and have been binge watching your videos for a couple of days. I've been using a 5'0" ultralight Ugly Stick for several years (small to moderate size trout in small streams with spinners is my main target) and while I can cast with great precision in tree choked conditions, I'm not sure it provides the most enjoyable trout fighting experience (it is labeled as "fast" action rod but seems to be a bit stiff to me). Do you have any thoughts on how the ultralight Ugly Stick action compares to ANY of your featured rods ?

[@FishAnything]

I haven't owned any of their shorter models but they are definitely unique rods. In my experience, Ugly Stik rods are very strong but lack some of the sensitivity and comfort of other setups. They are typically a bit heavy and wobbly feeling because of the glass/graphite blank. As far as their ratings go... The action is how far down the blank a rod bends with resistance. So a fast should bend higher up the blank than a moderate, etc. etc. The power of the rod is how much weight it takes to bend a rod. Essentially an ultralight moderate and an ultralight fast should both bend at the same weight resistance; they will simply bend at different places on the blank. So I think your concern may be that this rod feels a bit more powerful than an Ultralight? A true ultralight should be a pretty solid fight with an average trout. Depending on how much you spend, I think some of the other traditional graphite rods would be a bit more what you're looking for. Let me know how else I can help!

[@ezejfishing4256]

I want close to do-all ultra light rod In the $50 range. I was thinking of 13 fishing 6'6" or Akuma 6' I fish from the bank a lot, not too much maneuvering. (pretty open) I fish jigs, Panther Martins. Will the 6'6" be more around and cast further? thank for the videos

[@FishAnything]

I think the 6'6 13 Fishing Defy Silver should treat you well!

[@dr.jamesyohe6025]

I broke my Shakespeare Durango 5'6 UL. Can't find another. Do you know if they have been discontinued? I ordered one and they sent me the micro series. I like it, the reel seat is way better for my Mitchell 308, but it isn't as stiff as the Durango. I have lost some big bass because of poor hooksetting. I think I might try to get the Defy. Thanks!!! Really enjoy your channel!!!

[@FishAnything]

Interesting! I have never seen the Durango. Sorry you broke it :( The Defy has been good to me!

[@fishnthecreek3238]

I picked up a 5'6" Lew's laser lite combo. It is light action 1/32-1/4 ounce I want to get an ultralight but I'm having trouble finding one that specifies it tosses 1/64 or 1/80 etc. I want to have big big fun even in small small fish. My light power fast action made creek chub super enjoyable for me so going lighter can only make it better in my mind. Thank you for the video, it helped. Would love to see a video where you get super nerdy about the mule jigs and baits. I'm finding that I have been going to the marabou tailed crappie jigs a lot lately and catching fish on them and really want to try your jig heads to tie my own small "fly" style jigs and what not.

[@FishAnything]

Thanks for the suggestions! And yeah, most ultralight rod ratings simply don't go below 1/32oz. Every now and then, you find one for 1/64oz but it isn't often. They all still work for them though!

[@RamonOutdoors]

I try to keep my rods under $50 so the breakdown of the Shakespeare and Okuma rod was very beneficial. Those are currently on my list to check out.

[@FishAnything]

If it wasn't so dang expensive to ship rods, I would just ship them to you lol. Not necessarily worth shipping a $20-30 rod XD

[@RamonOutdoors]

@@FishAnything I appreciate the thought man!

[@traviswhitworth6506]

I really enjoy the Shakespeare micro series, especially at that price point!

[@stangsoutdooradventure8716]

I have a TUCR apex elite 7'2" ultralight absolutely love it

[@FishAnything]

I will have to check it out, thank you!

[@jtk49]

my favorite is Bass Pro Shops Micro Lite Graphite Spinning Rod. those rods are ultra light but can catch huge fish. I got a 5'6'' and 7'6''. my favorite rods

[@FishAnything]

Good intel! Thanks for sharing, might have to try one.

[@noahbeu1515]

My daughter caught a 30in pike on the Shakespeare combo was very impressed

[@FishAnything]

That had to be so much fun to watch 🤠👏🏽

[@noahbeu1515]

@@FishAnything had to coach her to just hold on to the rod lol she started to freak out once she saw it was a pike casue "they have teeth they are scary" she is 5 so she wasn't about it until I had it in my hand and she could appreciate it and now she rubs it in that she caught a big pike and I didn't hahaha

[@PrimeMKTO]

The 13 Defy Silver gets a vote from me. Fantastic on it’s own merits, and a great price. Tried and returned the st croix panfish series, just too whippy for me and couldn’t cast the real light 1/64 and 1/32 jigs. The defy was night and day for cast distance.

[@FishAnything]

Sounds like we have similar taste :)

[@koastal312]

I thought a more moderate action rod casts further. Im trying to get the most distance out of tiny jigs but not sure what to get

[@PrimeMKTO]

@@koastal312 generally yes. The Defy has a fast action but it’s not whippy like the st croix. The st croix has no snap to it, it’s like a noodle so it really lacks distance. The Defy is built real well for casting.

[@josecruz021]

Yep love ally micro Series, they have all caught me tons of small and big fish.

[@7citiesfishing]

Great video!

[@FishAnything]

Thank you :)

[@sklxbnz5667]

Daiwa Procyon UL or LXF. I have the light and I love it. Considering the UL but also like the Okuma Celilo. And tho they are over $100 I have been curious about the Favorite Yampa River Rods.

[@FishAnything]

The UL 6'1. It is going to be magical

[@B.A.Bassangler]

Great vid, my cyber friend! Challenge for you: UL speed cranking for winter Bass.

[@FishAnything]

Thank you! Not sure I’ll be able to pull off speed cranking for winter bass haha it’s going to be icy here soon!

[@B.A.Bassangler]

@@FishAnything LOL

[@michaelwright956]

Will the Daiwa Revros 1000 fit well on the 6’ UL TFO rod? I’m going to pick this rod up too.

[@FishAnything]

Yes, that will be a great little setup :)

[@jev6369]

Wanted to get your opinion Dobyns Sierra Trout & Panfish. I do a lot of twitch jigging for trout in smaller river and mountain lakes with maribou styles jigs. Typically faster and shorter twitches across rivers. I've been look good rod in the 7' range that has a bit more backbone and faster tip to deal with the currents. I know you have a shorter version but do you think the rod would be a good fit for this? Currently using a 6'6" St Croix Avid but the backbone is a little weak for fast twitching in currents.

[@FishAnything]

It sounds perfect for what you’re looking for. It’s a little on the stout side for trout but I think it’ll be soft enough not to pull the hooks free as long as your drag is set right

[@philipfalco7304]

You may be pleasantly surprised with the Berkley C-Series Crappie Pro in the 6'6" or 7'2" Light. They're rated for 4-8LB. with a extra fast tip and enough backbone and it's really sensitive and comfortable to fish. It fishes almost identical to the Dobyn's for $35 bucks. I know it sounds crazy but Just my opinion.

[@jsantef]

I had the defy 5'ultra light and loved it for panfish. The problem was I was putting it in my car and caught the tip on the inside roof light barely hit it and broke the 2 last eyelets off. I mean I barely hit it and it broke.

[@FishAnything]

Oh man! That is such a bummer :(

[@timg9404]

Have you tried the falcon Bucoo SR 5' ultralight? I just got one. Found myself inspired by your use of a short rod for creek chub.

[@FishAnything]

I haven’t tried one yet but I’ve considered ordering one. Do you like it??

[@mudpuppy30816]

I bought the bucoo ul 6.6 3 months back. loved it so much I just went and got the exact same one. throws little lures like a missle. got the new one for cork and jigs.

[@Charsept]

I'm sure casting distance would suffer but what are your thoughts on using an ice fishing rod for ultralight fishing? 🤔

[@FishAnything]

It would be virtually impossible to cast but it would work just fine for vertical jigging!

[@hvega8199]

Been running daiwa spinmatics UL and now the presso. Probably try out something different next year. Great video 👌🏾.

[@FishAnything]

I gotta try that Spinmatics you keep talking about. I love Daiwa gear!

[@kenglee88]

how does the tfo compare to the dobyn?? looking at both and cant decide which one to grab..just looking for another opinion on these two rod

[@FishAnything]

The TFO is more versatile and not as fast. The Dobyns is definitely a better rod but it is really fast so it kind of depends on your preferences/style as an angler. If you want versatility for fish/gear used, I would go TFO. If you fish a lot of jigs, go Dobyns.

[@masonodhner512]

Gotta love st croix I’ve caught 6lb bass on my panfish series ultra light

[@FishAnything]

Nice! That must have been fun :)

[@nicholashubert4834]

Thank you for an awesome breakdown on ultralight rods. I would love a breakdown on ultralight reels also. I’m in the market for a new reel (as always) for my TFO ultralight. Thoughts?

[@FishAnything]

Not sure if I will do a reel breakdown or not (mostly because I can't tell a huge difference between them until I have used them for a long time). I would go with a Daiwa or Shimano size 1000 in your budget range. No wrong reel from these two companies in my experience.

[@tedsell1455]

Diawa Laguna

[@traviswhitworth6506]

Daiwa legalis, regal, or exceler are all solid choices imo.

[@ripptydevibes2581]

The one thing I cant stand with ultralight rods is how much cork they put on the foregrip. I feel like im ice fishing with a bass rod. Do you know of any truley NAKED foregrip ultralights? Id really rather not have to build one!

[@FishAnything]

Not sure I fully know what you are looking for, but I think the Temple Fork Trout & Panfish is a pretty low profile grip. The Presso also

[@philipfalco7304]

Great video! Have you fished with the Berkley Crappie Pro C-Series 6'6" light yet? It's rated for 4-8LB line, has an extra fast tip and is light as heck. It fishes very similar to the Dobyn's Sierra 6'2" UL for $35 bucks. Just Sayin'

[@FishAnything]

Whoa it fishes similar for only $35? Might have to scoop it up!

[@philipfalco7304]

@@FishAnything I was pleasantly surprised when I picked them up and felt the action, lightweight and quality. I think you will really like them for Jig fishing.

[@ralphpearson5420]

New subscriber, and really enjoying your content. It’s an understatement to say that I have been bitten by the intrigue of BFS and ultralight gear /fishing. Just thought I would take the time to give back for all the good information you have offered. Check out the guys at Old 18 Outfitters. I own several of there UL Spinning and yes Casting rods. You will love the next level sticks they make. And while your at it tell Braden, that Ralph from Lexington sent you. Hope you enjoy, and again thanks for what you do. REP

[@FishAnything]

I have heard about those a few times. Definitely considering a test in the future!

[@unsigned.]

What line measurement do you use with those ultralight rods? Can you recommend a good one that is not too thin?

[@FishAnything]

I mostly use 2lb monofilament or 6lb braid. The thinner lines cast much further with ultralight lures. Otherwise, 4lb monofilament will work well too.

[@fmfishing]

I want to now are you can fish with a Baitcaster? Can you fish with a BFS for small fish? I will it try it next year what rod a they fish , i will look .

[@FishAnything]

The BFS stuff is fun but I’ve found spinning is more my style! I like both 🤠

[@Tree-vis]

You were not wrong, the TFO T&P can handle pretty much everything. Have even caught northerns on my UL TFO

[@FishAnything]

They are a solid little rod!

[@letsgonow5641]

For $25-30 i think the Celio is a decent rod. I fished hard last year. Although you are correct it isnt super sensistive and struggles with very light lures a bit but still doable. I tend to break (UL) these rods so i dont like to spend more than $40 on them. More so usually erorr than rod failure itslet. To me its a better rod than the Shakespeare Micro Series whos tips always break after a few uses.

[@FishAnything]

Good perspective! Nothing wrong with the Celilo - it has a unique feel to it!

[@John_bGoode]

Would you recommend the 7'6 celilo UL for jigging? Aiming for trout

[@FishAnything]

I would only get the 7'6 if you are fishing big float rigs for trout. Not sure I would want that rod otherwise. Probably a noodly setup.

[@skj468]

Hmm I tried the st croix avid and I actually thought my backup okuma celilo was way more sensitive

[@FishAnything]

Interesting! Goes to show that personal preference can make a difference. I am sure it can vary between models of rod too.

[@silverarow180]

Good reviews! Try the Berrypro ultralight on Amazon. Bass pro PTC air stream and bass pro crappie max quicktip (comes in a combo, but the reel is useless)

[@FishAnything]

Thank you! I always appreciate the suggestions :)

[@alonzoduran4216]

Dude can u use the 4 foot 6 in pen rod

[@joeoglez]

2:50 rod is very strong too, friend of mine caught 25 inch bull trout on it

[@FishAnything]

That had to be dang fun!

[@gardnerwebb3749]

You mentioned braid is a ticking time bomb. What about polyethylene line?

[@FishAnything]

Not sure I know what polyethylene line is? The only reason braid is a bit sketchy for that rod is due to how thin the rod tip is paired with the fact that braid is so limp and low stretch. Mono & Fluoro don't typically wrap around the guides of a rod whereas braid does that often. It is usually fine for standard rod tips, but when you have the super light rod tip, it is problematic.

[@0000Buloy0000]

I saw a ultra light telescopic rod in web. Just wonder which is better 2 pcs or telescopic or 1pcs for ultra light rod?

[@FishAnything]

I would go for a 2pc personally. A telescopic rod is typically clunky and heavy. I love the concept but rod companies have a hard time making them perform well from my experience.

[@0000Buloy0000]

Thanks

[@camhester4251]

Dobyns is a great quality rod , i have one in heavy fast for hollow body frog fishing it's a work horse and my favorite rod , as far as ultra light and light all i have is Zebco two light and three ultra light i thought i liked the light until i used the ultra light and i really like it other than it has less guides than the light action rod

[@FishAnything]

Awesome! Ultralight definitely doesn't require anything fancy... But I love my dang dobyns haha

[@email16v]

Tfo is a winner for me. Great rods.

[@FishAnything]

Totally agree! One of the best out there :)