I'm looking for an NFC blank to throw 3/4 oz plastic swimbaits (Keitech style). At least 7'. No real need for sensitivity. So, doesn't need to be Xray level. Maybe even an old classic. I'm guessing med heavy/ heavy power and moderate fast action. Not sure if there is such a beast.
Thanks

The MB 709 IM would fit the bill. It has a moderate fast action and will handle 3/4 oz quite nicely. Plenty of power to set the hook at long distances as well. I have one (soon to be two) rod built on that blank that I use for flipping and pitching. But I have used it for Carolina rigs as well as chatterbaits and hollow bodied frogs. I didn't really like it for frogs though. I like a faster action for frogs.

Thanks. I'll take a look
I didn't think of a Mag Bass series blank. But, with moderate fast action I can see why that might work. Plus, it probably will launch a 3/4 oz swimbait a mile. And like you said, that mag power can help hook setting from that distance.



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 03/19/2022 03:00PM by Todd Theodore.

The MB 709 can be had in IM ($60.73) or HM ($82.84). I have the MB 7109 Xray (only because it was cheaper when I bought) and it is $85.00.

Just a matter of if you think 10 inches longer would be a plus or minus. If you feel 3/4 ounce would be near the top of your lure range you might consider the MB 7108 instead. Hard to go wrong with any of them.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

NFC BB805-1 (IM).



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 03/19/2022 03:29PM by Spencer Phipps.

Actually, the 3/4 oz is at the top of what I'm throwing. So, the 708 is a good recommendation. I don't think the extra 10" would be of much benefit to me. I'm not sure why they don't make the 708 or 709 in xray. Not that it matters for this technique. But, why one and not the other?
Thanks again

Todd,

Take a look at the BB806 - its a favorite for the swimbait guys for soft plastics in that range.

[northforkcomposites.com]

Best Regards,
Aleks

Ok. I took by the 806 that it was an 8' blank. Not sure I want to deal with that much footage. But, I'll check it out

FWIW I also have the BB 806-2. While it work work, I'd choose the MB.

If 3/4 of an ounce is at the top of the range, and you want 7' and could stand closer to fast action, the SJ 725/ SJ 736 become viable options as well.

If I could only have one I'd pick the SJ for casting lures and the BB for fishing lead and dead bait. The MB could cover both.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

SJ736 is my choice...very versatile rod blank. The Neo blanks are not a bad choice either

For what it’s worth….Ive built about (5) MB 705 Deltas that I use on a regular basis. I use them for 3.8” swim baits and weighted flukes. Awesome blank for the money but that just my opinion.

Ditto the SJ 736 and the 705 or 706 Delta.

I paired my Delta SJ706 with an NFC Carbon Fiber split grip and it feels so good in hand. Lighter in weight than I expected for a heavy power.

These are all great options. I talked to a guy who fishes the river where this technique is so effective for big pre-spawn smallies and he said he likes the fast action. I was mistakenly thinking of the moderate action being desired. But, I can see where that may not be the case when you're settling a hook at some distance.

I have used many mag bass blanks for other applications other than bass, and have found they do very well especially when throwing heavier baits. I like a faster action blank when the rod will be using mono and a bit slower blank for braided lines. I will always consider the line type to be used.