All around baitcasting rod for LM bass?

[new2BC4bass]

This question has to have been asked umpteen times! My searching attempt turned up zilch. Apologize for asking it again.

I am putting together my first baitcasting outfit for LM bass. It needs to be as close to a do-it-all rod as I can get to start out. Will be used at the start for fishing in Florida on small lakes. My brother-in-law likes to fish the lilies, Hydrilla, etc. near shoreline with unweighted 10-11 inch plastic worms rigged weedless and #11 Rapalas. I'd like to be a little more versatile.

Picked up a Fuego from TW. I had narrowed my rod search to the Airrus Co-Matrix 457 or Compre both in the 6' 6" MH Fast models. I asked on another forum which would be best. One gentleman replied in his opinion the Airrus is outdated and the Compre was a better rod with better resale value. (Not an issue for me.) A second reply also went with the Compre.

I was convinced since the TT review said it was comparable to a rod costing twice as much. Since then I have seen a little written about the Lamiglass Excel and the Falcon Bucoo. I was wondering if the Compre would be considered a much better rod than either of these? Going by the reviews I've read so far, I think the Compre is still the better rod.

As an aside, the Airrus rod was reviewed a year earlier than the Compre rod. It received a higher score from them than the Compre although they stated the Compree was as good as rods costing twice as much. I have a habit of going down the road less trod. Although the Compre probably will be my first rod, I really want that Airrus before it becomes discontinued. Unfortunately it went from an $89 rod when tested to a $129 rod now.

$30 isn't much alone, but add $100 to it, and it becomes a little harder for me to consider given my current budget. Plus I have to remember that all my previous fishing was geared towards ultralight. I have to invest in some tackle for LM bass. That $30 would give me a start for tackle purchases.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Brand aside, MH/F is good multi-purpose choice. You might consider going 7' for a little better casting distance.

[Nine Miler]

A 6' 6" to 7' medium heavy fast rod is your best bet. Everyone will tell you their favorite brand.

Take a look at the warranty. Are you happy with what is offered? Have you had positive/negative experiences with the company in the past? Do you have any friends who own rods of the two brands you could try to get an idea of what they are like? Can you at least feel one in a store instead of just online? If you can, take your reel with you and see which setup feels best, because ultimately, what feels best to you is most important.

[new2BC4bass]

Yes, that is an option I have been considering lately because of the reading I have been doing here.  In fact the 7' model may very well replace the 6' 6" model as my first choice.  Distance has been an important factor in much of the fishing I have done in Florida.

[new2BC4bass]

A 6' 6" to 7' medium heavy fast rod is your best bet. Everyone will tell you their favorite brand.

Take a look at the warranty. Are you happy with what is offered? Have you had positive/negative experiences with the company in the past? Do you have any friends who own rods of the two brands you could try to get an idea of what they are like? Can you at least feel one in a store instead of just online? If you can, take your reel with you and see which setup feels best, because ultimately, what feels best to you is most important.

Unfortunately, "NO" is the answer to all your questions which is why I rely heavily on the advise from those with experience using the equipment I am looking at purchasing. I had the same problem with another of my hobbies. I spent a few thousand dollars on air rifles, and was only disappointed once, and then only because the seller was less than truthful about the guns accuracy and trigger.

[Nine Miler]

A 6' 6" to 7' medium heavy fast rod is your best bet. Everyone will tell you their favorite brand.

Take a look at the warranty. Are you happy with what is offered? Have you had positive/negative experiences with the company in the past? Do you have any friends who own rods of the two brands you could try to get an idea of what they are like? Can you at least feel one in a store instead of just online? If you can, take your reel with you and see which setup feels best, because ultimately, what feels best to you is most important.

Unfortunately, "NO" is the answer to all your questions which is why I rely heavily on the advise from those with experience using the equipment I am looking at purchasing. I had the same problem with another of my hobbies. I spent a few thousand dollars on air rifles, and was only disappointed once, and then only because the seller was less than truthful about the guns accuracy and trigger.

Oh, well then get the Compre.   ;D ;D ;D 8-)

[new2BC4bass]

After rereading your questions, I would have to say I am very satisfied with what I have read about Shimano when it comes to their warranties.  Need to check into Airrus warranty.  Still 'no' to the rest of the questions.   

Was just perusing TW.  Today's deals include the Okuma Concept C3 casting rods for $110.  Normal price is $150 or more.  This sounds like a very good deal.  Anyone have experience with the Okuma rod?  Can someone compare it to the Compre for me?

[Triton20XSD]

I agree with what most are saying a 6'6" or 7' mh fast action rod.  Having said that I have switched just about all my rods to 7'.  I just like the longer length for leverage and taking up line quicker.  I still have a 6'6" mh that I use for spinnerbaits and a few 6'6" spinning rods.  I would personally go with the 7' mh in your brand of choice.

[kbkindle]

i also went to a longer rod i like a 6'-9" rod  with the same  length handle as the 6-6.   i would like to try a kistler   z-bone   but at $250.00   and 30 day warrenty  (man )    also the  m.h. fast tip   

[roadwarrior]

6 1/2' or 7' MHF

8-)

[new2BC4bass]

Thanks guys.  I think I will start with a 7' MH with Fast action for my first all-around rod.  Notice I didn't say first rod!

I couldn't pass up an Airrus Ultra XL UXLC701MH at the price I found on another forum even tho the shorter butt is missing.  Don't know If this would be considered an all-around rod or not, or if it would be considered more of a cranking rod.  Will let you give me that information.   ;D

Still want the Compre, but it is going to have to wait.  I am hoping to invest in another reel in a couple weeks.  One of the Revo models with a heavier drag than my Fuego has.  Then I will be looking for that all-around rod!

lc[tt][/tt]

[Hammer 4]

I would say, if you fish from shore, or are over 6' tall, or just need the max casting distance, grab a 7 footer. As for brand, I own a few Shimano's, a couple BPS Rick Clunns, and an Okuma Guide Select..For what you want, and for the best warranty, I'd suggest the Compre, If you ever want to sell it..it retain more resale..just my 3 cents..