Top 5 Rods For Bass Fishing - Beginners And Advanced!

[@xiaoyangzhang]

No one is mentioning how beautiful the video background is? It's such a scenic view that it distracts me from listening.

[@UserUser14880]

💯

[@richardvasquez9668]

Seems like you don’t travel much. 🤨

[@afrojojo9475]

@@richardvasquez9668 Seems like a beautiful background. I travel all the time.

[@Dj.fishing084]

The background is almost always a Bob Ross painting with these guys💯

[@e4t662]

I'm Oldschool ( or broke), when it comes to rods and reels. Shimano spinning with 14lb. mono and an Ugly stick. That's it.

[@calebjones9695]

Please drop the ugly stick it’s a reliable rod but it sucks

[@BGID7]

​@calebjones9695 if it's reliable, what makes it suck?

[@ShaneJMcNair]

This was a wonderful refresher/confidence builder. I remember watching your videos a few years ago to help me get my first set of bass combos assembled. Now as I'm learning what works/fits best for me these videos help me fine tune my arsenal of combos.

[@rafabonati7757]

I caught my second largest (largest for NY) largemouth 2 days ago on a spinnerbait with Spunk Shad trailer. The water is cold in northern NY, but that bass hit the bait right at the bank. Bank fishing too. 5 pounder. Thanks for your tips and lessons. Rafa

[@jameskeim8912]

Thanks, can't wait for buyers guide gotta upgrade this year elbows are killing me this year especially this month ,lotta casting in the fall hunting for big ones.cheaper gear will kill your elbows over time,sounds crazy but so true.buy this time of year my right hand falls asleep just from gripping the reel handle.trust me if your young and fish alot up grade Everytime you can.save your elbows

[@jhorgos12]

Hell yeah! Feels amazing, huh?

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

Congrats on your NYPB! 👊🤨🎣

[@joshuabrown9955]

This guy is such a great teacher. Very helpful for people trying to be better fisherman.

[@TheFishingExpat]

Good stuff. I grew up bass fishing in Florida but now I apply these same principles for Pike, Perch, and Zander fishing here in Germany

[@e4t662]

Zander? Please explain.

[@TheFishingExpat]

@@e4t662 A Zander is a European Walleye, very similar but some subtle differences. I have a couple videos of them on my channel you can check out if you’re interested

[@e4t662]

@@TheFishingExpat Thanks for that man.

[@Bluezkat1]

That 7'4" Legend elite is money! I've been fishing that rod for years and it's definitely one of my favorite rods... use it for Cali swim jigs a lot. Good call!

[@titaniumcrayon3090]

If anyone is wondering, IMO the 6’8 Mxf victory rod from st croix is one of the best jerkbait rods on the market. It’s easily on par with the Expride however the Expride has a slightly higher weight rating but I still prefer the st croix. Pair that with a Curado 70 mgl or a Diawa sv and you probably have the best jerkbait rod there is. I absolutely swear by it and it feels completely weightless. Backed by that amazing factory warranty and I have no reason to ever go higher end for a jerkbait set up.

[@CapnPink28]

Hitting a new lake for me this morning in Southern OH…..hoping for some good luck today! Great information Matt!!

[@MRboss11]

I am overwhelmed at the complexity but I've never been more excited!

[@guyb5333]

I really like the way you have such a concise way of presenting pertinent fishing information. It's easy to watch and I like the way you can keep the flow of your conversation going Without stumbling & cutaways. You guys do an awesome job. Keep up the good work.

[@that1993mustang]

Best medium light action I have is the st.croix mojo bass 6’10” paired with a Pflueger President. Light actions are definitely my favorite way to fish, get tons of fish and it makes it more of a challenge to get bigger bass on light line, forces you to work the fish more.

[@brianwilliams9813]

Thanks for the info. This channel helped me get my PB largemouth bass 8 lbs 14 oz !!! Western New York

[@Maven-220]

I know this video was 6 months ago but I just (today) got in my 6’10” medium expride rod that was order back in September 2021. I patiently waited nearly 9 months for it. My go to tackle shop (Just Fishin) made my day with this 1. Can’t wait to get out there and get some hours on it.

[@tacticalbassin]

Awesome!!! You're going to love it!

[@toddwinegar7365]

Guys this channel is the best if you are just getting into fishing you have to watch TB and follow their advice put your DIRT time in and you will become a decent Angler. By far the best YT fishing channel for those just beginning in the sport and they have the best deep dives. Caught my first Smallie on the Dark Sleeper today, 3/4 oz It was a real quality fish 18 1/2in and 3lb 9oz, really like how the strike felt and she was pinned well. Been fishing the dark sleeper for 2 months now and I dont through it everytime I go out but I have been putting some time in with the 1/2 and 3/4 oz version's and I really like fishing with the dark sleeper. Even though I had to put some time in to get figure out how to properly fish it , I had tremendous confidence in the bait mostly from watching TB and the countless quality fish yall boated with the dark sleeper but also On my very first cast ever with one , I caught the biggest Rock Bass I have ever seen with I mean this dude was like 1 and half pounds , so I knew then this bait was going to work and although I know I still have a long way to go before I really get it dialed in, I am sure you guys will continue you to film yourselves and post it on YT so people like me can watch and learn. Thanks a TON TB family. sorry so long but Im stoked up.

[@tacticalbassin]

Nice smallie!! Way to go!!

[@emerytwyman5951]

Perfect video as always! Your 843 mbr is my 7'2 mh 2018 version curado.. its the cheapest rod in my line and I will never leave without it idk what it is about the action but it covers all my mid range baits like chatters spinnerbaits squarebills and can handle more if needed. Great for a kayak angler who only wants to carry 5 or less rods.

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

I’ll have to check that rod out seeing as all of my fishing/filming is from the kayak as well! 👊🤨🎣

[@sslum]

Man I love your videos. Super in depth description while being timely so I can pump through a lot of video categories. As a new angler I thank you greatly!

[@michaelangelo6947]

I got a Dobyn's Maverick series spinning rod for finesse fishing today. There was only one left that was close to what I wanted. I wanted a 6'8" ML fast action rod, but the only one left was a 6' L fast action one. I got it and paired it with a 25 series Fluegar spinning reel. The ML felt like a M and the L fely like ML. I hope this combo works well for finesse fishing smaller baits.

[@hunterbull7804]

Those Loomis MBRs are definitely as versatile as you say they are. Very happy they brought them up into the NRX. Megabass rods can do a lot as well I’ve found. They’re designed the way the Japanese angler would fish. Shorter rods for tighter quarters and more parabolic actions. My Super Destroyer and Windbuster can do so many things. Another line that has some incredibly versatile rods are the new Steez AGS rods. The power pitch is that do-everything 7’2” H and I’ve thrown everything from light Texas rigs to a 6” Magdraft on it. I can geek out about tackle for hours.

[@chrisconaway799]

One of my favorites. Just stumbled across one of your videos last week and I love how well you explain things I have been fishing my whole life and I think that it’s awsome to see a pro doing some of the same things my step dad tougher me years ago! Thanks for great content

[@learningtofish7036]

Excellent instruction. Thanks. I have less than a 100 days on the water in a real way. You guys taught me to fish starting in 2020.

[@Bacnow]

Nice! What reel/rod combos are you rocking?

[@smoovefishing]

My all time favorite 7’4” heavy rod is a first gen1 Shimano Curama! It’s awesome rod and never let it go!

[@Everything_Andy]

So here's a few setups I think have potential to piggy back of ya. 1. 7ft medium light rod, reel being a 3000 with 10lb braid fluoro your choice. For Ned's, 3inch senko lures, small poppers, zara spook puppy lures, small spinner baits and buzzbaits aka the strike king pond magic lures. 2. Medium moderate 7ft casting setup with 10-12lb mono or fluoro for medium-small crankbaits and baits that require a bit more finnesse. 3. Medium heavy casting setups for your normal 4-6inch senkos, Texas and Carolina rigs, jigs, medium poppers to smaller end of larger sized poppers, spooks, buzzbaits, spinnerbaits, smaller frogs, etc. 4. Heavy casting rod for anything and everything around and in vegetation, wood, docks, etc.

[@farrzmd3038]

The beginner setup is the perfect pond / lake setup for a bank angler. Perfect starting point and will cover all bank applications. Once you learn what works for you, you can swap in 1/2 rods to fine tune favorite lures. I just bought a slx xt reel to spool with 12lb Fluoro and a 6’6” medium rod for my favorite lure the jerk bait. It’s a lure I throw year round so I upgraded the reel and rod.

[@cbrowns7]

Should you (can you) use braided line with the first rod/reel combo? I'm a beginner bank fisherman and im getting different opinions on the line.

[@kayakfishingforpredators9107]

Megabass P5 Landsat+ Exsence 2018 Megabass P5 X-bites + Steez SV TW700 Megabass P5 Tequila Baccarac + Metanium 151 MGL Megabass P5 Madbull + Metanium DC HG 101 Tenryu Injection Fast finess ml + Exsence A (2021)

[@guad512]

Another rod I’ve fallen in love with (per Matt’s recommendation) is the 7’2” Glass Expride! Works as advertised throwing a chatterbait in grass and beyond! Thanks again TB!

[@TKsw191145]

I prev ordered the new B model of that rod. Cannot wait to use it

[@guad512]

@@TKsw191145 you’re going to love it! Great for 3/8 oz chatterbaits and mid-size crankbaits! 👍

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

I used all of the techniques he’s talking about on my 6’10” medium rod with a spinning reel: Texas rigs Ned rigs Big Topwater Frogs Spinnerbaits Chatterbaits Crank baits …and I caught plenty of bass. Don’t feel you NEED to have 5 different types of rods.

[@TheJerthomas1]

I agree, i would NOT tell a newbie, they need 5 rods. Id go with your spinning combo ( or similar) and add a 7' - 7'3" MH baitcaster 7:5 - 1 gear ratio. Both combos for around $150 combined total.

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

@@TheJerthomas1 Totally agree. My next rod will be a slightly heavier one for sure.

[@MaineStreamFishing]

One question…. How often do you tie on a new lure!? 🤣🤷🏾‍♂️ just messing but IMO you need at least 3… top water a moving bait and then something on the bottom to effectively target bass

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

@@MaineStreamFishing I actually do use three on my kayak if you watch my videos but two of them are medium (because I didn’t know better at the time) and one is LITERALLY a $10 Zebco. And I still slay ‘em. I just don’t want newbies thinking they need to spend a ton. You’re right, I mainly bring three rods so I’m not constantly re-tying.

[@johncoopes1056]

You can golf with only a 7 iron. Not real efficient but doable. It’s how efficient do you want to be?

[@Tbowie13]

I wish I had had someone like you 35 years ago, you would have saved me many thousands of dollars!

[@markloedding8238]

Perfect video, I just recommended this to my sister and nephew who are just getting into bass fishing. I’m working on getting that Expride for jerkbaits.

[@joegrande4848]

I've used braid on a medium power spinning reel using 30lb braid an works. I know I have to work on locating bass alittle better. I know bass go where there's structure like sticks an logs an stick beds where there's lots of sticks. Rock structures grass lay downs. Not really sure where those reside on the river I fish but as I learn more I'll find out

[@egomaniac247]

Appreciate that you guys are putting this out around Christmas! This is THE channel I come to when I need fishing information.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks! We're happy to help!

[@richardblake4777]

Man Matt, I really appreciate your explaining the why of rod buying. Thanks.

[@robin_lundahl]

I can relate alot to the information in this video. I have been fishing for 25 years and i have 6-7 budget combos. Now i know what type of fishermen i am. But now instead of buying combos that i can do many things with i want to upgrade to high end combos that are technique specific on for example chatterbaits or jerkbaits wich are my favourite techniques. I would still use my budget combos for other techniques.

[@alcav54]

That Curado 70 MGL is my absolute favorite reel. It’s amazing for jerkbaits

[@jasonromo4416]

One of your best videos Matt. I just got started and own the 7' medium spinning rod. I've used it (and caught bass on) dropshot, ned rig, squarebill, lipless and even small topwater. Starting to look into baitcasting for combo #2. Here's your challenge: top combos UNDER $100! Ready, go!

[@doublec1758]

Matt! I see you setting the table for the holiday buyers guides…..BRING IT ON! 🤣

[@bassandtreblefishing]

I come back to this every now and then to recalibrate- but I was wondering would you ever use a Medium Heavy Moderate Fast rod for bottom contact lures?

[@BassYakCam]

I use a 7ft medium heavy / fast tip for 95% of my bass fishing. With 30-40 lb braid. Soft plastics, cranks, spinners, whatever. Works for literally anything. Only exception is in extremely clear water. In which case it’s a medium light spinner with a fluoro leader. That is all you need. You can get fancy with all different rods, lines, leaders, if you want. But it’s not necessary. The stuff that worked 100 years ago still works. Same goes for lures. It’s not like the bass suddenly think my grandpa’s tackle box is out of style.

[@Hendrix312002]

As a new bass fisherman, your videos have been insanely helpful! Thank you so much.

[@noctisosiris7032]

Thank you so much. I have watched so many rod videos but I never really understood it until now. I wish someone came out with a graphic that showed each type of lure and which type of rod you should use for it. Or even better what time of year you should fish it. I’m a visual learner and would love something I could pull up on the water.

[@shaunroberts9361]

Another outstanding video from the man the legend Matt Allen.....

[@smallfish6355]

St croix triumph 6ft medium has been my juice lately. Paired with a tatula 2500 and 6lb fluro. The rod fishes closer to a medium light than a medium imo.

[@sknapp3884]

I really appreciate this information. I'm going to use it to figure out how to use the rod/reel combo's I inherited and maybe improve upon them.

[@crashdsnowman1]

It seems most videos are aimed at tournament style fishing. We fish small rivers max 4-5ft deep from kayaks for smallmouth that range 1.5-3lb and mostly use jigs (single hook) but some whopper ploppers. Fishing from a yak means we can't have 7 rods on deck. Yesterday I was using a Megabass Dark sleeper and probably hooked and lost 40 fish in a 6hr period, so 50% hook to land ratio. The baits are usually lighter 3/8-1/2 so spinning rigs work better to get the distance, using 12lb flo. Rod used was budget $99 rod MH/fast. I feel like I set the hook pretty hard and try to get them in the yak asap but many spit the hook 10ft from the boat, some while mid air some top of water and less under water. I'm not sure if it's the me, the rod, the hook or the flo. I don't lose many on the whopper ploppers. If you had to choose 1 spinning rod for those conditions $200 or under what would it be? Looking at the St Croix Mojo yak MH/fast

[@JamFlexx]

bow your rod tip when they head shake

[@Grand-Massive]

Just bought my first baitcaster the other day. Shimano SLX combo 7 foot medium heavy with the 7.2:1 reel. It was on sale for $140 USD I hope i made a good choice.

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

Nice!!! Where did you find that deal? 🤨👍

[@NFiltr8Red]

Daiwa AGS medium power rod Daiwa Ballistic Samurai 15 lb braid to 8 lb leader All you need. I have every high end rod and this set up is the do all catch all.

[@billyboy5762]

Love how you took time to explain the rods and what they are used for thank you so much!

[@gilbertgalindo831]

Thank you for your time to share this knowledge to us my friend. Just made me a happy guy!

[@travm3978]

Thanks for this video. Its been a while since I've done any bass fishing and this was a nice refresher to get me started again .

[@chaseD707]

I like a 7 foot med heavy for my all purpose rod then I like a 7.6 heavy for my small swim baits etc l. Then I like a 7.3 to 7.6 crank rod and a 7 foot medium spinning combo for finesse and that will get you thru almost anything until you get super super serious about bad fishing

[@zekereed5990]

I love these equip vids. Have two rods I absolutely love because of these vids. Keep doing your thing guys.

[@ryanmitchell5668]

Perfect timing - I’m trying to decide on rod number 3 and 4. Awesome information as always and actually changed my mind on which direction to go. Thanks Matt!

[@jackdhammer]

Thank you so much for this. It's surprisingly hard to find a guide like this. Much appreciated.

[@TheHAPHAZARDENT]

Thanks for sharing your expertise and condensing your years of experience and trial and error into a video for us. I’m not completely new to fishing but new in the sense of taking it more seriously. This video definitely has helped me a lot when choosing which rod and reels to purchase. I can’t thank you enough. 🙌👍

[@poppy.fishing]

I'm in the process of stepping up my game. Just got the Shimano curado casting rod and paired it up with a Shimano curado DC 150, 12lb p-line. What do you think about this combo?

[@TheFishingExpat]

That’s a solid setup, I have the Curado DC and I love it. I have 50lb braid on it because I live in Germany now and use it for Pike fishing. But, you’ll be happy with that setup brother

[@bendakstarkiller4827]

You don’t need a DC if you’ve got a thumb. It costs more, but doesn’t cast nearly as well as a regular curado. You’re paying nearly $100 for thumb assistance.

[@davidb.8786]

How's that working out for you can you tell the difference between the other fishing pole

[@poppy.fishing]

@@davidb.8786 yes I can tell the difference. It's more sensitive cast amazing even with ligh baits and is holding up well. I hooked a musky and didn't break the rod. I will be buying more to replace older rods.

[@pezdavis4632]

@@bendakstarkiller4827 coming from someone that owns both that isn’t even remotely true. When it comes to tuning your dc just set the external braking dial on 2 and loosen your spool tension knob until you have spool wobble from side to side. This is how my dc performs at its peak anywhere from weightless flukes to 1/2oz jigs I hope that helps

[@the_mad_swimbaiter455]

Grits, turkey bacon, coffee, and Tactical Bassin! Great morning!

[@c_vincent_p]

Like everyone has said before me, this video is such an eye opening for me. I just started my transformation from a “fun” fisherman, to an amateur. I got the bug fishing with my son on a recent vacation down to SC (Lake Hartwell). Fishing there, my son and I realized that we needed to up grade our (cheap) spincasters, and get fitted with some proper gear. Thank you for walking me through the step by step, from beginner to more advanced. You answered my biggest question of what rod/reel we should be looking for for our first one. Fishing mostly up here in Michigan (lakes and ponds), a good spinning rod/reel set up should be an all around good choice for the both of us. Should allow us to do basically everything. My question to you would be, should I get one of each, I could take the BC and give him the spinner, that way we’re covered by both, or would it be better to just go both spinning? Thanks!

[@dangkhang9479]

Here one thing everyone don’t know. Bigger reel like a 4000 size will cast further than a small 2500. I’m a shore angler and I need distance. This also applies to casting if you are throwing heavier weight. I like a longer rod because I like the light tip. Lighter tip allow for better hookup.

[@FishingWithDL]

Great video Matt. When would a larger series spinning reel like a 5000 come into play? Striper fishing?

[@jeffreyzeitz2711]

The 6'10" medium action Expride is awesome. Thanks Matt

[@titogonzalezpimping]

Hands down i get some of the best information watching these videos and it helps when im looking to add to my fishing arsenal thanks for the detail information

[@ericparker415]

Great video I wish you said what action tip for those rods

[@georgebramblett6078]

I know there not top of the line but i bought 5 st croix bass x rods this year they seam to be real good rods

[@randellmoore224]

Great great stuff!!! Advice we’ll taken! Ready for the holidays buyer’s guide!!! Thanks

[@shaneb5295]

Tim, can you elaborate on the speed-cracking rod configuration? I have several rod configurations. Cracking is my go-to technic, so maybe a speed-cracking rod will be my next setup. Great informative video, and thanks!

[@joegrande4848]

I'm a losey fisherman I need alot of work but I'm enjoying the journey an learning as I go. I'm kinda old school I don't use fish finder to find fish. I look for where I have an idea where bass may be. If no bites within 20 0r 30 minutes I'll pick a spot close to where I was fishing

[@thejonath]

My best setup is a 6'10" medium light spinning expride with a 6.4 Vanford 3000, and a 7'2" medium heavy baitcaster expride with a 7.2 Scorpion DC. I throw all my finesse stuff, jerkbait and popper on spinning rod, pretty much everything else on the baitcaster. I dont even bring an heavy rod anymore, I just downsized stuff like frogs a tiny bit and I use the MH baitcaster (no impact, work perfectly even working a fish out of cover). For stuff I couldnt downsize like punching rig, I just don't bomb them out of this world and a MH still does the job. Does the job for trout, bass, walleye, pike... Havent tried it on sturgeon and doubt I will 😂

[@treepounderbaitco.5153]

Damnit now I’m gonna be late for work. Worth it

[@khalincottingham9252]

Just seeing this video and I love it. I been fishing for a couple years and I know I been using probably the wrong pole reel combo for what I use. I have never used a bait caster I would like to use one I do love spinner though as well. I love fishing 5" senkos to 7"5 inch zoom speed worm. I love using plastics fishing slow or fast. Some cover in the water to mid cover of grass. What would be the best rod reel combo for me. I loved this video and kept telling myself o that one sounds great o wait no that one. But if someone could help me out please.

[@AmeriFanPicker]

Great stuff as usual. More and more I find myself using a 6’10” medium baitcasting and a 6’10” medium light spinning more and more. Maybe cause they fit decently in my hatchback….but also cause I’m not really getting into any super heavy fish. But I’m definitely catching more cause I have the ability to scale down my baits. Lately using 2.8 swim baits (kind of switching away from keitechs cause their so fragile in favor of the Berkeley power swimmer. It’s about the only knockoff I’ll use and almost as good at catching fish as the keitechs).

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

I like the 6’10” size as well for similar transporting reasons 🤨👍🎣

[@juli82E]

This was an Awesome Vid, wish I had seen this when I got into more rods....Are we gonna get a reel vid to compliment these rods?

[@bassnbonsai]

Great video but you lost me right off the bat at spinning rod... Lol I've actually switched completely to baitcasting gear over the years using what was called finesse gear and now called BFS.. I highly agree with your recommendations for rods and lengths for traditional fishing but I'd also recommend you guys branch out into the bfs and shorter rod realm ...

[@tacticalbassin]

We do 👍🏼 you may have missed our bait finesse content but there will be more soon. I definitely wouldn't recommend it for the brand new angler however, the spinning rod still has a strong place in the line up for most anglers.

[@junovue]

Bfs isn’t wind proof. You can still launch a spinning in 20 mph wind and never worry about birds nest. For bfs you’re spending tons more $ and playing with your brakes each time the wind changes throughout the day for maximum distance. All gear have their place. A bit rude to invalidate the spinning rod recommendation like that.

[@bassnbonsai]

I was joking hence the lol at the end.. but yes I can launch a bait into 20mph wind with bait casting gear bfs included just the same as spinning gear..

[@junovue]

@@bassnbonsai but not cost efficient haha

[@Alejandro-vb2fx]

Chick Fil-A chicken mini meal with a large coke and a new Tactical Bassin video for breakfast, that’s a great start to my Friday at work lol.

[@TheJakobLott]

I went ultralight for 3rd rod. Hope that was a good call

[@knate22]

Your video was extremely helpful and provided the best explanations compared to other videos of the same topic. Thank you for the knowledge share.

[@chaseD707]

I’d say if you want to get into bass fishing go out get your self a hundred dollar rod and hundred dollar casting reel. The slx combo is super solid grab a 7 foot med heavy. Or go grab a dobyns fury or Diawa has a 100 ish dollar rod that’s good maybe spend a tad more and get shimanos 150 dollar offering. Then for a reel grab the slx or slx mgl or if you are serious and only want to buy once just buckle down and get the curado 200 you can’t go wrong. Then after you realize this is something you want to do go grab a mega bass levante rod for about 200 bucks and pair it with the curado 200 that combo will be good enough for a long long time

[@spencercolgan]

I think you’re a very good teacher

[@rogerloydmccoy]

I would love to see an expansion and update with newer gear, of this video. Actually covering techniques more specifically.

[@Tagerrun]

Honestly I learned how to cast a picsifun xs chaos as my first bait caster, and it was really easy to pick up.

[@skiplovestofish6992]

Great video . Can't wait for your holiday buyers guide 🙂

[@corvette_jake7225]

Appreciate yalls videos

[@KiaTia09]

Wow great stuff! I am so new to all of it. I just crunched the numbers and on the beginner line all of the gear adds up to about $1,400. I think like most of us will start small and work my way up. On the advanced side I show about $2,300 in total. The only one I was not sure about was the Loomis GLX 843C what length are you talking about? That rod by itself is in the $400 is range i would want to make sure i purchase the right one. Thanks for all the info and links that alot of work..

[@williamtate2167]

An 843c is a 7ft medium-heavy

[@CarterStambelos]

i really love this video i really caters to everyone while not just saying get this but giving us a medium to start

[@johnbowe4564]

Thanks for the vid and info about rods and showing me what I need 😉

[@muchograssyass1]

Just want to say I enjoy your content and you have helped me to learn a more about bass fishing. I recently caught my PB in a small road side pond, he went about 5lbs. Problem is I cannot bring myself to spend $200 on a rod & reel combo. I have a bait caster that was only $80 and I have caught fish with it. I don't really use it a lot because of backlash issues which just frustrate me. I have a friend that is supposed to help me learn how to use it so we'll see how it goes. I have caught fish on some of the baits you have recommended. Keep up the good work.

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

You don’t need the most expensive gear. I literally brought out a $10 Zebco a few times this year just to have an extra bait to toss and caught some NICE ones (3.5 lbs and up) on it and have to footage to prove it. 🤣👍🎣

[@muchograssyass1]

@@TheMichiganFisherman I think we may have the very same Zebco in our possession. I use it creek fishing at our cabin. Have caught a lot of fish with it.

[@nbe386]

Matt, When you mention the length of different rods, why a 7' over a 7'6". What does the length give me?

[@Milehighsnake98]

Shorter rods are more accurate casting, and for some techniques, easier to work the bait (ie. jerkbaits, walking topwaters where you twitch the rod towards the water). Longer rods help for bottom contact baits for leverage.

[@nbe386]

@@Milehighsnake98 What do you think Matt?

[@briansnyder9897]

thanks for the video matt good stuff really looking forward to the buyer's guide vids you and tim cost me alot of money lol love them exprides thanks for the content guys!

[@willtrax71]

Nice Video my friend and an Aluminum Frame Reel on the Medium/Heavy Guys is a must..I know several Guys that don’t look for that and there Frog Setup Reel doesn’t last very long with that 65lb braid lol

[@polychris5961]

I’m getting a couple exprides for Christmas. I’m excited

[@johncoopes1056]

I have 4 now. They are all awesome

[@mattietiger2959]

Amazing info, thanks Matt

[@cincinnatiking8008]

If you are thinking about buying an SLX rod be aware that it's pretty stiff. I don't have the spinning rod, so I can't say for sure, but I have the casting. The MH is closer to a H. It's not good for chatterbaits or anything with treble hooks

[@taddbednar9957]

@12:29 "I fish braid so I can leave a bait tied on". Can you explain that. I have some braid to leader and some straight fluoro and always leave my baits tied on.

[@christophercurtis2550]

I love you guys just fishing videos I get all my details from you guys you guys are pretty sweet

[@bolck454]

Will braid cut your guides on the reel and rods guides? I use Dobyns rod and curados.

[@hookreelfishing]

Thanks for the tips, I need to upgrade my poles. Awesome video++

[@philippebouchard2429]

It would be nice to know the kind of actions you like on these rods. I'm looking at a st-croix LE for finesse fishing in medium-light. However I hesitate between fast or extra fast action. What would you chose between the two ? Thanks

[@mtnstacker9114]

I just got the Shimano SLX 7’ medium, but it came in Extra Fast even though I ordered the Fast action, should I return it for the Fast action?

[@junovue]

What’s your application? One thing for all? I guess pay attention to what you’re fishing and how you’re missing fish. If you’re missing fish then maybe. If you’re not missing fish for the application then maybe not? I’ve heard people using those specs for open top water and jerk baits. Possibly light finesse jigs if it goes down to 1/4-/1/8

[@alexwilliams8131]

Great video for the fellow tackle junkies! The MBR is really amazing. I’ve thrown walking baits, lipless, spinnerbaits, jigs, and Texas rigs all on it this year. That St Croix 7’4 heavy is also a beast. I have the exact same rod. Great for a 6 inch mag draft with a flashy swimmer and light frogging!

[@ddubbz1979]

Any benefit to a 7'6" medium spinning rod? My local shop talked me into that one. Felt too long. But theyre in the business, so I took the advice.

[@nbe386]

One more, what about the Heavy and Extra Heavy for the heavy lures?