Arv

I use both. Probably the baby more than the full size. Not sure why. I just really like it on a small profile jig.

I guess my disagreement is coming from MY assumption that they should be evaluating a $100 reel as a $100 reel and not against ALL reels available. If it is put up to the same standards as $200-$600 reels, I agree that a "fair" rating is actually fair and a solid rating for the reel. However, IMO, if compared to other reels in the $100 price range, a "fair" rating is lower than deserved. I don't think they trashed the reel, regardless of the rating. I just don't think it makes sense to include things like a reel cover in the rating, especially when rating a $100 reel. But, that's their standard and they are entitled to review it by those standards. They are fair and rate all products by the same standards. Whether they are partial towards scoring certain brands higher than others can be argued. I know my opinion on that matter, but it doesn't really matter.

3/8oz black and blue jig w/ beaver style trailer. Weighed 8 something

2 combos. One for me, one for my wife. Or just 2 for me

Hmm... even though I'll spend more on a rod a reel is probably more fun for me

I'd look to spend about 100 on the rod and about 50 on the reel. Lots of options at those prices imo

It depends on the weights you're throwing for the jigs. I'll fish 1/8 oz jigs on a medium light spinning rod. As far as frogs, I don't think you need a heavy rod, but I don't know that I would go less than a medium heavy honestly.

It is good, despite what the current TT review says, haha!

This is a good point. They gave the max 683c stellar reviews along with other good reviews like you mentioned. I'm not sure who did those reviews off the top of my head, but I don't remember seeing the guy that did the recent review of the PQ much, if at all. He might be the same guy that reviewed the Savvy, but I haven't taken the time to look it up yet. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. The reviewer is entitled to his. My opinion, and probably the opinion of many others, differs from his on this reel, and that's fine by me.

I stop around 200-250 depending on the item. Most I've ever spent on one piece of equipment was 260 on a rod, but it was ~25% off...

I really disagree with that review. Like already mentioned, so much of the reviews are subjective. I feel like the reviewer had higher end reels in mind when writing the review. If they want to compare the PQ to an Antares or Steez, fine, that's their call. Will the PQ stack up to those? No. But they're also ~5x the price. Its like comparing a Ferrari to a Civic. Is a Civic a fine car, sure. Is it a Ferrari. Nope, not even close. Having owned and fished with several PQ reels I will confidently say that they are well worth the money. Are there better reels out there? Without a doubt. Are there better reels out there for $100? If there are they are on a very short list.

This is why I like this forum

Powell Endurance 723 or 714 depending on weights you're throwing and cover you're fishing. That can be had at fish ranger for 150. Then you should be able to find a Lews TP for around 150 or under. That should put you right around 300. That's where my money would go. Other options for the rod might be a Fenwick Small Mouth/Aetos, St. Croix Avid, Phenix M1/Recon, and the new Tatula rods are getting a lot of good reviews Other reels, BPS Pro Qualifier, Lews Tournament SS, Daiwa Tatula, and Shimano Curado I I'm sure I'm missing some but those are some options. I always shop sales and the flea market here. I don't think I've ever paid retail price for a rod or a reel.

Probably useless. I'll take it off your hands for free. I'll even pay shipping! Only kidding. It seems like a pretty versatile rod. I'd most likely use it as a jig/worm rod because of the length and sensitivity.

I use the Dx 744 for jigs 1/4 to 1/2oz, It is classified as a heavy power rod by Dobyns. You have to take into consideration the trailer weight when talking jigs. If you feel like you should get a 3 power, go for it. I'm sure it will be fine, but I, like the others on that have already commented on here that have experience with the rod, feel like the a 704/734 would be a better fit. The extra length is personal preference. I like the added length, but that's up to you.

Went night fishing with a buddy. We both forgot a light.

I pretty much only use 1/4oz

I have the DX 744 and its a SUPER versatile rod. the 733/743 and 734/744 are usually regarded as the more versatile out of the Champion and Champion Extreme line ups. If you drop down to a 7' I'm sure it will be just the same, just missing the added length.

Be patient and shop sales or used.

Depends on the company. Most medium heavy rods will handle your weights.

I like the extra length. A lot of guys do. It's really personal preference imo.

Citica

Haha I think you're kind of right on the border here where either rod will handle those weights. If you had thrown in 1/2oz lures, 4 power without a doubt imo. Personally I'd probably go 3 power unless you're fishing decent cover.

Yeah. I don't remember the weights. I mostly throw 3/8 spinners so that's probably what I threw on it haha

I always have spinning gear. Of my 5 rods that I use 2 are spinning. Also my wife's rod is a spinning rod