I noticed the exact same thing as you! I ordered one and couldn't stand it. It was so short and cramped feeling in my hand after installing a reel I had to send the rod back. Loved everything else about the rod except the reel seat. Fuji ECS all the way for me as far as comfort goes.

For all you Kistler guys out there, can you clarify for me some of the previous z bone models and how they differed? I know there was an ST and LE for sure, but not sure on any others. I am wondering what the differences were regarding those previous versions/models.

If you want sweet, I'd say get the xx. If you want lightweight and top notch sensitivity, get the 894. The only other rod I'll throw my jigs on in that range other than my 894 is the '15 zbone 7'3h lexf. I understand you on the dobyns. Even after I updated to the HP, it still is JUS a moving bait r...

The cover I am referring to is mostly reeds/grass. A lot of the time I am just fishing on the edge, but sometimes you have to get into the cover a little bit on the sunnier and mid days times.

I am just wondering how these two rods compare. I had a Dobyns Champion Extreme HP 745, but was a little underwhelmed with the sensitivity for the price, great rod overall though. I am thinking one of the two rod mentioned in the subject. How do they compare? I have heard great things about the Oroc...

Same experience here. Shimano is top notch. I have had such good experiences with their reel servicing program too.

Straight braid here. I have attempted to use a fluoro leaders but it just seems like the extra knot isn't worth all the hassle and has caused issues for me. Maybe I am not using the best knot, but I lost a couple fish and have been hesitant to monkey with it thereafter.

Like others here I just have experience with the 13 metanium and CI4. The metanium feels a fair amount more refined in every aspect than the CI4. The CI4 is a good reel, but the metanium that will take you from good to great. How much extra is it worth is a good question, but I can guarantee if you ...

Anyone fished this rod? I have debated adding this rod to my arsenal, but would like some personal input on sensitivity and action/power in comparison to other rods. The rod I am thinking about is the 7'6" heavy fast as a jig pitching rod. How does it compare to say a Dobyns HP, Megabass Orochi XX, ...

I would say Dirty Jigs or Nutech for me. The Nutech's truly due stick them in the top of the mouth basically every time.

Definitely lazer trokar wacky weedless in the 2/0 size.

Another vote on Seaguar smackdown here. I use the 50 lb. for pitching.

My favorite is Seaguar smackdown. I actually just bought some of that YGK Soul braid you mentioned through the tackle warehouse recently. My favorite braid was Toray Bawo Finesse Braid, but is no longer made. I was thinking this maybe was a new version of it possible or something. I don't think I bo...

For me the rod is more important, but that is mainly because I mostly fish bottom contact lures and want the best sensitivity possible. If I fished moving baits it would probably be the other way around so I think it kind of depends on how you fish.

Anyone tried this newer stick bait out? I am intrigued by it but am wondering if the uv adder or skirting really makes much of a difference.