Phenix Classic BFS Rod Field Review: SLX BFS Bass Fishing (BFS Fishing)

In this video, Phenix Classic BFS Rod Field Review: SLX BFS Bass Fishing (BFS Fishing), Hobie-Wan Kenobi discusses the new 7'1" Phenix Classic BFS rod and explains his initial impressions while catching bass shortly after ice out.
Shimano SLX BFS:
www.digitaka.com/items/5/4/2/...
Digitaka Discount Code: K63
Phenix Classic BFS 7'1" Specs:
BFS-C 71
7′1″
1 Piece
4-10 lb
3/32 - 1/4 oz (2.65 - 7gr)
Fuji Alconite guides
FROM PHENIX:
The anticipation and long wait are finally over. From the industry’s #1 ultra light rod manufacturer comes the Phenix “Classic BFS” rod series! Bait Finesse System (BFS) is a Japanese form of light line; light lure fishing for heavily pressured fisheries. The Classic BFS is built on a proprietary 36T Toray Carbon Fiber blank with a solid Carbon Tip section. This, combined with the Extra Fast action, leads to the most sensitive BFS rods on the market. Utilizing Fuji Micro Guides with Alconite inserts, a proprietary complete contact reel seat on the casting versions, and a Fuji VSS reel seat on the spinning versions, with quality Portuguese Cork grips, lends to a very JDM look and feel. Casting light lures from 3/32-1/4oz, or .88-7.39 grams on a 4-10lb line, has never been easier with the backbone to pull in larger-sized fish. Whether it’s trophy bass or trout, in heavily pressured waters where light line and small lures are necessary for success, go armed for battle with a Classic BFS rod.

[@Plee92]

Thanks for the report

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Thanks for watching! More info will be released on the rod as I use it more.

[@EddieLindsay681]

I’m a huge phenix rod fan and will be getting this rod. Great video as always sir

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That's good to hear. I like my custom K2 I built a while back

[@mariopadilla7508]

I used a custom wrapped mhx drop shot rod. It’s rated Light xf 6'10" 6-12 lb 1/8 - 3/8 oz. I’ve used it in harbors for spotties in socal for 5 years and it’s held up. I would like to retire the rod because it has a bit of sentimental value because my wife has a matching spinning rod with a decal with our anniversary on it, so seeing you review this rod definitely helped with picking a new finesse rod!

[@losangelesbfs]

very detailed review hobie good stuff brotha man. nice bonus fish for the review. ima sip this baja blast for you. love this rod and prefer it over the dobyns.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I will need more time to get a full opinion formed between the two but, I have been liking the Phenix so far.

[@makcatchem9614]

I have been using the Phoenix feather light action casting rod for 3 years now. And it seemed to go under the radar because no one else was talking about it or even using it. A lot of people didn't know it was a thing. I love that rod

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I definitely noticed it but, I have too many rods as it is 😂. The Classic BFS will have less backbone than the Feather.

[@percussionalobsecration6178]

Great review! The reason for the red lips is twofold. One is that it happens when the water gets cold, and the second is from eating crayfish or off the bottom in general. Love my Old18 Bouyancy bfs rods. I have caught everything from small bluegill and other panfish, bass, rainbow trout, and even snagged a common carp that was around 9 lbs. It has handled the fight from everything well. Nick from the RXangler channel has caught many good sized Redfish with his, so I know that they are pretty strong.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Thanks for the info on the bass. I haven't tried any Old 18 rods. Regarding a rod being strong, as long as the line doesn't rate higher than the blank can handle and you use your drag, any rod "could" handle big fish.

[@baliton2006]

It’s a beautiful rod

[@HobieWanKenobi]

It really is a beautiful rod.

[@michaelloucks4448]

Hey hobie that's exactly why there lips are red there trying to root there lips into the rocks to get the crawfish. Thanks so much for the BFS videos nice job bud. Very informative . God bless you and your family.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Thanks for the info. I also see red lips in sandy lakes as well 🤔. The world may truly never know

[@clintonbruning]

Whats up bud! I’ve been killing it with the dobyns Sierras in texas man. Tons of big bass on my channel lately throwing bfs. I might have to check out a phenix next!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Sweet! Most lakes still have ice on them but soon enough, I'll be chasing some big smallies.

[@clintonbruning]

@@HobieWanKenobi the brown ones sound like a BLAST on BFS

[@Smoot307]

I’m a big fan of the Phenix Feather rods I own. I’ll have to check this one out.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The Feather series is one I wish I would have picked up. I am glad the Classic BFS has been working out though.

[@jonathank5388]

I love all my feathers. They feel so good in your hand. I also have the bass recons and they just don't feel the same

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Do you have any Phenix rods that are 7'6" or longer in H power?

[@abelabner]

A thumbs up for the prime LIP BLADE!!!!!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Symmetrical, full and no lame gap in the middle. It isn't quite a Tom Selleck stache but, it checks all the boxes and filters the air I breathe quite a bit.

[@milonhaiar7726]

Best shirt

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Dew fuels the adventure 🏔️ 💧

[@fish_on_gang1436]

Nice #fishongang loves phenix rods

[@OneDegreeLife]

I’m using a Jenko Double Down with Kastking Zephyr and upgraded barings. Have also tried the reel on a Berkeley Lightning 8 foot UL.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The Zephyr definitely needs upgrades bearings. Pretty solid reel after that upgrade

[@OneDegreeLife]

@@HobieWanKenobi my first BFS and didn’t want to blow the budget. Might try an SLX BFS if I keep at it

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@OneDegreeLife SLX BFS is definitely worth jumping to as a "budget" BFS reel. Worth it because you won't "outgrow" it and it also has a few spool options to go stream fishing or panfish or, stock for lakes.

[@OneDegreeLife]

@@HobieWanKenobi that’s cool and likely in the future. Ha.

[@christopherlee4613]

Have lots of BFS rods... Rapala Snow and Ceratina, Kuying Tetons TTC 662L, 510S, 522SUL, 50FUL, Custom built American Tackle 601L PFR 2, Custom built Glassfin 3 piece glassfiber 5'0", Tsu Dragon 602UL, Mavllos Delicacy UL/L, Artemis V1.0 5'6", Storm Discovery 602L, Custom Built Suzuki Black Hole 601L 4-8lb, Fenwick Eagle GT 4-12lb, plus a few more...lol

[@HobieWanKenobi]

😂...that's quite the collection of BFS rods...and I am sure it will continue to grow

[@scottstieber6936]

Great Video !! my BFS rods are Shimano Majestic 6' 8" light/fast, Phenix Feather 7' 1" light/fast, Fenwick Elite Bass 6' 10" med/light/fast , and a Fenwick Techna PX 6' 10" med/light/fast . I'm running two Kingdom Micro Monsters (7.1:1 & 8.1:1) on the Shimano & Feather, and running two Acura HICC-50's (7.1:1 & 8.1:1) on the Fenwicks. The Shimano is rated 6#-12# mono, I'm running 20# braid w/ 8# fluoro leader, 6# fluoro on the Phenix Feather (rated 4#-10#), and 8# fluoro on the Fenwick's (both rated 4#-10#). I target bass but manage to catch other species due to the lighter baits. I havent picked up any of my standard bass gear in a year !!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I hear you on that. It's hard to pick up standard bass gear in most lakes around me. if I see heavy cover though...I gotta throw a frog or pitch into it.

[@scottstieber6936]

@@HobieWanKenobi True.. I always keep a frog rod handy... I typically pack 4-BFS rods & the frog rod

[@logicalrationalfishing7481]

@@scottstieber6936 How do you like that Fenwick Techna PX? They were on sale for like $120 a while back, now they are $150 (hoping they go back down on TW). Wanting to match with a new Aldebaran BFS or a Millionaire CT SV...

[@scottstieber6936]

@@logicalrationalfishing7481 I have yet to get it on the water, been playing with it in the back yard... luv it !! I have a Doviello Acura (8.1:1) HICC-50 on it with 8# fluorocarbon. I did get it on the TW sale for 129, it's a better modulus than the Fenwick Elite Bass (which I have) super lite, 4.8 ounces. been contemplating getting the 7' 3" version, wish the price would come back down, it was originally 199.

[@scottstieber6936]

@@logicalrationalfishing7481 Haven't got it on the water yet... but in the backyard it's been awesome ! casting light lures easily , 1/8 (3.5g) very light rod 4.6 oz, would've rather a split grip... but so light I don't care... thinking about picking up the 7' 3" medium version, got it from TW @ 129, originally 199, currently @ 149. I think an Alderbaran would be a great match !!

[@RUF33OH]

Been using a KK Kestrel Elite. Actually recently landed a 6+ pound snakehead on it with 8lb braid 😅😅

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I like the Kestrel Elite. It's a good push in BFS for sure.

[@emmpak]

The Mt Drew company should sponsor bass fishing.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

😂. Idk if they do. They have had a shift to more outdoor marketing

[@andreicretu5339]

Mate, thank you for these reviews! They're extremely helpful. I'm keen in buying my first baitcasting bfs setup and done a lot of research. The reel will be an aldebaran, but I'm undecided on the rod. I fish for chub (5-6 pounds are common) and brown trout(caught 3 over 9 pound last year) and was wondering if this rod can handle them, but after seeing your walleye, that answered my question. 😊 I fish with small crankbaits, 3 to 5 cm long, and the softer tip on this should work lovely, would love your opinion or a video on that. Also, can't seem to find a US store where I could buy this from and that would ship to the UK, do you have any ideas where I could get it from? Respect!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

If fishing open water, the rod will handle a 9lb brown trout. The rod does have a good cushion to keep smaller hooks pinned pretty good. I'm not sure of any retailers that would ship the rod to the UK. If there are any retailers you know of (in store or online) based in the UK that carries other Phenix rods, could ask them if they can order one for you.

[@dellsdiy]

Have you tested the cashion Ikon BFS rods? I’m curious if they are worth $40 more than this rod. Great video!!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yes. They are only $20 more than this rod. Video comparing them coming soon

[@ikashibimauler]

Looking at the bend while you were fighting that fish, it is pretty obvious that has a pretty fast action.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

It does. Taper is hard to catch on video. The midsection does bend a bit. I'd say it's fast until there is load then, definitely moderate fast.

[@rougaroux2359]

Hobie I would like to see some more info on this rod. Also the new Jenko Doubledown as well. Jenko is bringing the “Doubledown v2” out. It supposed to be more of a bass rod I think. The info I’ve seen on it says it will cast down to 1/8oz. I’m not sure what that is in grams. I hope that I can find a good use Doubledown V1 that’s meant for Crappie as that is what I mainly fish for as of now.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I know Cal over at TackleTour just published his review of the Classic BFS. I will have some more videos coming out using this rod

[@benruegge9100]

The crush plates are red because they've been eating off the bottom. That's what I've always been told and I've noticed and ponds where they don't have but sports usually like that overstock situation all of the. Bass have that red mark where they've been eating off the bottom

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Interesting 🤔. I heard it was from crushing crawfish. They prefer crawfish because they have nutrients they need for egg production I guess.

[@christinesaukam714]

Red is from the water temp and red clay bottoms as well, which absorbs into the crayfish.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@christinesaukam714 There isn't much red clay up by me. Most clay around here is very light color.

[@europeanian4205]

Wonder how this would stack up to the 7'1 L Phenix Feather? I have the 2 piece and absolutely love it.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I haven't used the Feather. This rod feels pretty good. I'd imagine this rod would be slightly better given the difference in materials but, fishing side by side is the only true way to tell.

[@superbowl5639]

I’m torn between the 2

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@superbowl5639 I been liking this rod. If you don't need a 2 piece, I'd go with the Classic BFS

[@JasonZhang-ji2bd]

Would you recommend this rod or a Dobyns sierra for overall BFS fishing from the bank? Also, what do u think is the best Dobyns Sierra model 😁

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I like this rod a little more overall. I need to use the Classic BFS more to get a definitive conclusion regarding performance but, even if they fish exactly the same, the Phenix Classic BFS reel seat and overall looks would be the tiebreaker. I prefer the Dobyns Sierra Series 701c of the Sierra Series models I have used.

[@alansarpy]

Hey bro .. having a tough time finding this rod ? How do you the New Conquest pairs up with the Dobyns Sierra series?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I like the Phenix more for most finesse fishing. The Conquest wouldn't be bad with any rod.

[@alansarpy]

@@HobieWanKenobi found the phenix on tackle warehouse! Love the channel man .. can't wait to see the conquest 23 video you have coming

[@JKots-mu7or]

I'm from Toronto Canada if your channel was a bass it would be a 10 pounder. So far i have a triza aello, I waiting for great hunting huntsman and have been procrastinating many other Reels are easy I have currado bfs, 22 alderberan bfs and waiting for 23 calcutta bfs and 23 ss air to be available also considering 22 exsence dc. I would appreciate any thoughts on rods to match up with those reels. I mostly fish bass but have great opportunity for trout. Thanks

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That Great Hunting Huntsman series looks insane. Idk if they are making more, as it seemed like a limited run. Big issues trying to find a bass rod that can do stream trout. I like longer graphite rods for BFS bass and shorter more moderate rods for stream trout. You can get overlap if you are after trout like splake and such in lakes but, stream is kinda tough.

[@junovue]

what's your fav bfs rod for casting?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Really depends on what I am doing. Stream fishing is a different animal than open water. Even in open water, you have bass and more finesse like panfish. The Phenix casts lighter bass lures and "heavier" panfish lures wonderfully. Would I choose the Phenix as a rod to pitch around cover...probably not.

[@Danyang1]

Do you have an update on how the braid to leader went?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I have not had any issues with leader knots.

[@raymondjohnson6496]

It looks good but the problem is that the guide are Alconite guides on the phenix rod the dobyns has the sic micro guides the insert won’t break like the Alconite ones will

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The Dobyns Sierra Series BFS rods have Fuji Alconites. I haven't had issues with Alconite guides. I use a SiC tip top for all my customs, even when I run Alconites. Prevents any braid grooves....that only happens in extreme circumstances anyway.

[@raymondjohnson6496]

I call Dobyns tomorrow but I think they are sic micro, Guides

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I think I remember them being Alconites. Tackle Warehouse has them listed as such too but, never can take a single source of info too heavy.

[@Pond_King_Fishing]

Hey Hobie, have you tried the Phenix feather? I am interested to see how that rod would work for bfs. What area do you fish? I am in Nebraska and we have some pretty big largemouth, I love catching big bass on bfs. Tight lines Bubba 🤙💪🎣🇺🇸

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I haven't used the Feather. I fish in northern Michigan

[@darainkheng5031]

@@HobieWanKenobipls try phenix feather light 7,1 L

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@darainkheng5031 I may try that rod someday

[@rorylipinski5506]

Do you feel this rod has more of a backbone compared to the Dobyns Sierra UF 701C?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

They are close. I would have to load them with identical weights to tell

[@benruegge9100]

So quick question can you tell me the benefits of microbarian versus ceramic hybrid or full ceramic

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I don't worry much about bearings. I like micro hybrid ceramic for tiny lures but, most BFS reels come with adequate bearings for most BFS fishing.

[@benruegge9100]

I'm actually asking because my scorpion 200. I bought second hand has microburns and I really thought the microbarians were more of a fanest thing

[@HobieWanKenobi]

A 200 sized reel would not be great for micro bearings. The bearings would see too much force with the bigger lures a 200 sized reel would cast to last very long.

[@American.Labor.Party.11.05]

My friend is a fisherman. If you use a jerkbait lure, I recommend using a medium ratio, which is a ratio of 6:3. Within a ratio of 6, if you use a baitcaster reel.Jerkbait is actually more of a jerk and pause technique and a cannon.Jerkbait is more of an art and it depends on the cannon and the cannon will produce Rytham. The ratio does not need to be high if using Jerkbait lure. The best I recommend is 6:1,6:3,6:6 and the highest ratio is 6:8.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I like a faster ratio to be able to reel up any slack line to set the hook. I work the lure with the rod and reel the slack. I rarely use the reel to work the lure.

[@American.Labor.Party.11.05]

@@HobieWanKenobi Can also use a high ratio. It is also not a big issue actually. It depends on the comfort of the angler.If an angler already knows the rhythm even using such a high ratio there is actually no problem.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Fishing is wonderful because there is no direct way to success.

[@gvidasgi2480]

​@@American.Labor.Party.11.05 You gotta take into account that is a bfs reel and the spool is smaller in diameter compared to conventional baitcasting reels so they usually make them in higher gear ratios to compensate line retrieve rate.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That is true. Even with "normal" reels, I prefer fast for almost everything. Easier to turn a handle slower to make a fast reel slow vs turning the handle fast to make a slow reel fast.

[@yoloomis]

How’s the sensitivity vs. Dobyns?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I need to fish them side by side to really tell. I been liking the Phenix a lot lately. More comfortable reel seat and grip and a little more lively feeling but, need to compare them side by side to really tell

[@Joshua-jh8yc]

So, as far as rods go, I have a dobyns, and a palms egeria. I like using small jerkbaits, particularly the x-nanahan. For any reel, I like getting as high a gear ratio as I can, and fish slower if I need to. As for content? I would enjoy pretty much anything slightly related to fishing, which is not helpful as far as ideas go, but it is the truth.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I am hoping to use the Egeria here soon for some trout.

[@Joshua-jh8yc]

@@HobieWanKenobi it has been very enjoyable to use with the Stream Custom on some of the small water down here. the biggest issue for me is that most of the trout fisheries in my area are large and support big fish. a happy problem, but makes it a little more dificult to use the Egeria.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@Joshua-jh8yc That's a good problem to have 😂. My Egeria will be going after brook trout

[@Joshua-jh8yc]

@@HobieWanKenobi Yeah, I have learned the hard way not to use gear that is too light, both for the safety of the equipment, and the health of the fish. I plan on making a couple of trips to the eastern part of my state for natives this year. figure it would be an appropriate use for it...

[@chicodusty30]

Do you think that will be good for small crank baits?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yeah. Using this jerkbait, keeping the fish pinned was quite nice, even with the small trebles. I did cast around a few smaller squarebills and they felt just fine. The tip gave enough to deflect off cover without getting into the mid section much. I didn't catch any fish with them but, overall I wouldn't hesitate using this rod for moving baits.

[@chicodusty30]

@@HobieWanKenobi Thanks for responding Bro!

[@xDx0xUxGx]

I've heard people mention solid and hollow tips on bfs rods. Which one is better and why?

[@xDx0xUxGx]

I don't know if it makes a difference, but I'm primarily going to be using it for bass.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Solid tips can be great if the taper is right. Some solid tipped rods are too fast and put a lot of pressure on the tip. Phenix did this rods great, having a more moderate taper going into the top. Hollow tip will give you smoother taper and be more durable. The solid tip is great for sensitivity and seeing the bite of sorts.

[@xDx0xUxGx]

@@HobieWanKenobi Ok thank you. I think I'd prefer to maybe sacrifice a little sensitivity for durability. Missing a fish occasionally would be better than breaking the rod.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@xDx0xUxGx True. The Phenix has landed quite a few big fish and it is still going steong

[@randallmiller572]

Would you recommend this rod for inshore saltwater fishing?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The taper feels nice for inshore fishing. Would handle braid quite well without ripping hooks from dishes mouth

[@randallmiller572]

@@HobieWanKenobi thank you sir!

[@xxxxxxx3760]

I want one so bad I have some cheap ace hawk

[@HobieWanKenobi]

It will be a big upgrade. It is good sometimes to get budget gear to see if you like a technique or whatever before investing money into it.

[@ripptydevibes2581]

For me, fast reels for jerkbaits. The faster the reel, the less I need to focus and the more relaxing it can be. For the red lips, crayfish has almost NEVER been the case for me. Usually, I see proof of it being "bug sifting" the bottom content.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Fast reels for me too, except deep cranking. The bass still have on lipstick around me.

[@darrensmith8091]

Ordered the 7'1 rod but it came to me with a broken off tip guide. The tip of this thing seems extremely fragile. Be careful loading it in the truck or the rod locker. I guess I'll start the return process😢

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That could be an insurance claim through the shipper. I wouldn't count the rod out and carriers can cause issues

[@darrensmith8091]

Tackle Express is taking care of me. Shipped replacement rod already. Good company.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@darrensmith8091 Sweet! Let me know how you like the rod!

[@arnemueller2112]

This rod looks really good. Some information concerning rod material and guide train would be nice. Esthetically way more sexy than the Dobyns.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I included info on the rod in the video description.

[@arnemueller2112]

Sorry, Iöm an idiot :) 36T Toray should be sufficient for decent sensitivity 👍

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@arnemueller2112 It felt pretty nice so far. Warmer weather should melt the ice off the rest of the lakes and I can get out and get better testing.

[@yoloomis]

I think this is a rod for my pixy

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Would be a solid choice. I been liking tiny jigs and also finesse jerkbaits with this rod.

[@jimt5683]

Phenix Classic bfs or dobyns Sierra bfs for crappie?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Phenix Classic BFS

[@jimt5683]

@@HobieWanKenobi really even the 700c? Just order 2

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@jimt5683 I'd still go with the Phenix for crappie.

[@jimt5683]

@@HobieWanKenobi ok t y

[@jimt5683]

How thick is the classic compare to the 700c? I just received today it kinda thick for my liking

[@Teddy-se8qb]

she has red lips because shes trying to look pretty for pre spawn

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Getting all dolled up to get some action! Too bad the boys are the ones who need to do all the work.