I ordered this and it is to come in today --
Shimano Fishing Vanford 1000 F
But since I ordered a few days ago, I just happened to find and read hours and hours of JDM reel posts and I am wondering if I made a mistake. How does this Vanford stack up against JDM reels?
I mostly fish for bass but also like ultralight to catch bluegills and also will go after crappie. My main lake has big bluegills up to 1 lb or more and crappie can be decent size, too. The coppernose bluegill I've been catching are real strong fighters. Also catch an occasional bass on these tiny trout magnet jigs. Caught a 5 lb. bass a few days ago on the trout magnet.
I also need a JDM rod. I am not willing to buy the ultimate rod n reel yet, I would rather buy mid range until I get more experience. Even mid range reels and rods seem to be $200 to $400 each rod and each reel and I am willing to spend that.
And then I will likely buy more than one rig!
I have been using a B 'n' M Sam Heaton Super Sensitive 8 ft rod and Pfleuger President 20 size. Also, a Shakespeare Micro Series 7 ft rod and $30 Lews reel. So, these are not expensive rigs. Have enjoyed the longer 8 ft rod on the big bream, that is a hoot. I did buy a JDM rod, a Major Craft, but it broke more than once and I don't see the point of getting it repaired again, I suspect it is defective.
If I had to choose between two rods of equal price and abilities, I'd opt for the longer one but I am open to whatever is best! I hope to find a combo that will cast these small Trout Magnet jigs decently. Sometimes, the casts are just too short! I know line plays a part in that and I have 2-lb test SOS that I have tried and I haven't liked it but I am going to try again and again until I might decide it is just not for me and stick with 4 lb. test. I also have two Varivas small test lines to try.
Please give your thoughts. And if you think the Shimano Vanford was not a good choice, chime in on that. I paid $252 including tax for it. TIA!