G Loomis GLX MBR784C vs GLX MBR844C

[Micropterus salmoides]

I currently have a GLX MBR784C as my jig/worm rod and was considering getting a GLX MBR844C to replace it. Conditions vary from fishing 5-20 ft deep with 3/8-1/2 oz jigs in rocky cover using longer casts to fishing 1-10 ft deep with 3/16-3/8 oz bullet weighted soft plastics in lay downs and dense vegetation. I find the MBR784C casts 3/8-1/2 oz lures with ease, but I have a little difficulty, particularly with accuracy, when casting 3/16-1/4 oz lures. I'm wondering if the softer tip of the MBR844C, which I was told was a difference compared to the MBR784C by a G Loomis representative, would make casting lighter baits easier than with the MBR784C. Is the MBR844C as effortless making short casts to up close shallow cover as the MBR784C is? I primarily use an underhand roll cast. Another consideration is working a lure. Is the extra weight of the MBR844C noticeable while holding the rod during the retrieve or is it negligible? Is it any more fatiguing than the MBR784C? Does the balance of rod and reel feel any different? Finally, would the MBR844C improve hook setting, particularly when fishing deeper and making longer casts? I've noticed that I'm missing some hook sets during these conditions. I would appreciate some insight on this subject. Thanks.  

[roadwarrior]

Although I generally prefer 7' rods and own the GLX MBR844C, I don't think you will find it to be much different than the 784. I do not think the tip is softer, the 844C tip is firm. Generally speaking, or at least for many, a 6 1/2' rod is somewhat easier to cast and more accurate. It seems to be more a matter of preference than anything else. I use 844C as my main heavy jig rod, for heavy spinnerbaits and as my striper rod (live bait).

[Siebert Outdoors]

Hmm, You pretty much explained my whole fishing style right there. IMPO, go 7' and dont look back. Especially for the deep fishing and the weeds/structure.

Is the extra weight of the MBR844C noticeable while holding the rod during the retrieve or is it negligible?

It is obviously heavier, but not much. IMO its worth it.

Does the balance of rod and reel feel any different? Yes, the rod fishes competely different

Finally, would the MBR844C improve hook setting, particularly when fishing deeper and making longer casts?

Yes, a ton more hook setting power. It will cure this "I've noticed that I'm missing some hook sets during these conditions." Any time you have more line out you will need a longer rod to pick up more slack. Plus streach of the line.

I dont want to complicate things more but you might want to look at a BCR854 too. If you have a good local dealer see if they will let you toss one a few times.

Just a side note:  Any rod will have a weight range that it functions with the best.  As you have found out of this range you start loosing accuracy and performance.  With that said the 844 or 854 fits my needs the best because I mostly throw 3/8-1/2.  The 854 will handle a 5/16 or 3/4 well but it really shines with the 3/8-1/2.  Thats just my opinion from what I have used.

[flechero]

I hate to argue with a Loomis rep but... I had the 784 and 844 (new and old styles) in factory rods and currently have both blanks in front of me- the tips are close to identical. I think the only difference in casting will come from the extra 6" generating a little more lure speed.

I do however, agree with GMAN in that they fish like 2 completely different rods.

Just curious... if you are having trouble with 3/16-1/4 oz, something is probably out of whack... Is there a chance your reel needs cleaning or service? Or maybe the line is old, stiff and full of memory?

[Micropterus salmoides]

When you say that the MBR784C and MBR844C fish like two completely different rods can you be more specific? I use Shimano Chronarch SF reels with my rods, so maybe it's the underhand roll cast that makes casting 3/16-1/4 oz bullet weights a little difficult. I've been using 3/8-1/2 oz jigs much more the last couple of years so I may have become accustomed to the heavier weight loading the rod more easily. Probably need a bit more practice with the lighter weights.  

[Siebert Outdoors]

When you say that the MBR784C and MBR844C fish like two completely different rods can you be more specific?  

The 844 requires more attention to accurately cast.  Hope that makes sense.  The line pick up is different when you move the rod to move your lure.  The back of the blank is bigger adding weight and changes the overall feel.  Once in awhile I switch from a 7' to 6'6" rod and it takes a minute to get the feel back.

I use Shimano Chronarch SF reels with my rods, so maybe it's the underhand roll cast that makes casting 3/16-1/4 oz bullet weights a little difficult.

That is the same reel I use for my 844.  It will handle those lighter weights just have to loosen the tension knob a little more.  Fletchero brought up a good point with the line.  I use alot of sidearm or underhand roll cast too.  These lighter 3/16 weights are more difficult for me but it is doable with some practice with the 7' heavy.  Of course since it is lighter its not going to cast like a 1/2 jig or trap.