New "Finesse" Casting Set-Up

[Rickety Skillet]

So after tons of research and holding various rods in my local shop, I decided to upgrade my casting rig. UPS just arrived today and I figured I would share my initial experience.

 

I went with :

- G.Loomis NRX 803C

- Diawa Steez CT SV 700XH

 

I ended up getting both on sale and saved a good bit ?

 

Im sure tons of folks here have a copious amount of experience using these products, but they are new to me and I'm pretty jazzed about it. I have it spooled up with 30# Power Pro braid with a 15# FC leader with the intent to fish small jigs, smaller Texas rigs and other various soft plastics. 

 

Initial Impression: (having very little to compare it to ... so take it for what it is xD)

- Rod is light as a feather and fit and finish are well done. Came with a sticker on the cork handle I took off that left some sticky residue behind. I used 400 grit sandpaper to get rid of it and it is like it was never there now. 

- Reel feels smooth and everything that adjusts or clicks is very positive and sure sounding

- I have never used a reel like this, and just from clicking my release and letting my 1/16th oz weight with a 2/0 hook on the end of the line spool out and hit my carpet, it almost caused a backlash ... makes me scared to cast it a bit. I adjusted the breaks to the higher side for when I actually get out to cast it.

- I have the braid married to the leader via an Albright knot and am hoping it will not cause a hang-up as it passes through the eyelets upon casting. 

 

I'll update this after I get out to use it and have actual time behind the rod.

 

Happy fishing everyone

[Derek1]

Nice, that’s pretty exciting. 

[new2BC4bass]

Now that is what I call an upgrade.      Very nice.  Enjoy.

[Mikeltee]

Congrats. You cant do much better than that. Now hopefully you can ditch the spinning gear. Definitely keep us posted.

[mrpao]

Sweet combo.

Next, you'll be wanting another one.

Then another. Then another.?

[onenutinthewater]

Its starts with one and some initial frustration. Next thing ya know you will be ordering your 3rd rod rack..............

[new2BC4bass]

2 hours ago, onenutinthewater said:

Its starts with one and some initial frustration. Next thing ya know you will be ordering your 3rd rod rack..............

If I could only afford a rod rack.    All my money goes into rods. 

[onenutinthewater]

54 minutes ago, new2BC4bass said:

If I could only afford a rod rack.    All my money goes into rods. 

After you have "acquired" maybe a dozen rods the need to throw away $70 for a good rod rack becomes easier.........