BUYER'S GUIDE: BFS (Bait Finesse System) Rods, Reels, And Lures For Bait Finesse Fishing!

Рет қаралды 68,351

Жыл бұрын

Bait Finesse is here!! If you're wondering what BFS is for, you aren't alone! In today's Buyer's Guide we're covering our favorite BFS rods and reels for casting ultralight presentations with casting gear. Then we're looking at some of our favorite baits for catching fish with this ultra finesse technique. If you're not familiar with BFS the concept is very simple. Essentially, anything you've ever done with a spinning rod, can now be done with a bait caster, and with even more precision. Plus, its a lot of fun!
BFS has been around for decades but has exploded into the US Market in the last 2 years. The arrival of the Shimano Curado BFS Reel opened the door for a wave of anglers to experience BFS without paying the astronomical prices previously required with JDM rod and reel imports. If you've ever been curious about this unique way of fishing, we're here to help!
Below you'll find links to all the rods, reels, and baits discussed in the video. We've included favorite sizes and colors where applicable to make it as easy as possible for you to find the items you want. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.
PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...
•$100 Rod And Reel Combos: • 2022 BUYER'S GUIDE: Be...
•$200 Rod And Reel Combos: • BUYER'S GUIDE: Best $2...
•$300 Rod And Reel Combos: • BUYER'S GUIDE: Best $3...
•$400 Rod And Reel Combos: • BUYER'S GUIDE: Best $4...
•$500 Rod And Reel Combos: • BUYER'S GUIDE: Best $5...
•Ultra High End Rods And Reels: • BUYER'S GUIDE: Ultra H...
BFS REELS...
•Shimano Curado BFS: bit.ly/2QGRVF2
•KastKing Zephyr Bait Finesse: bit.ly/3cy03ij
BFS RODS...
•Dobyns Sierra Ultra Finesse: bit.ly/3C4PWgc
Models: 7' Light (700) 6'9" Light Fast (691)
•Shimano Zodias: bit.ly/2cgmMAe
Model: 7'2" ML (Medium Light)
•Shimano Expride: bit.ly/2nTq9FL
Model: 7'2" ML+ (Medium Light+)
•Megabass Destroyer P5: bit.ly/2wVOSbY
Model: Z Crank Elseil
•G Loomis IMX Pro Crankbait: bit.ly/2og0BmK
Model: 864 CBR DF (7'2" MH Deep Flex)
•G Loomis Conquest: bit.ly/2iL1PAY
Model: 842C MBR
LINES...
Fluorocarbon- Sunline Super FC (6-8 lb): bit.ly/2p7fxju
Braid- Power Pro Spectra (10 lb): bit.ly/2aFg46b
BFS TEXAS RIGGING...
Weight- Swagger Tungsten Vader 1/16 oz: bit.ly/2NjDYtV
Heavy Wire Hook- Owner Rig-N-Hook Size 1/0: bit.ly/2BnniXN
Light Wire Hook- Owner J-Light Size 1/0: bit.ly/3HDg0SH
DROPSHOT RIGGING...
Hook- Owner Mosquito Light (Size 4 or 6): bit.ly/2zQVKx3
Weight- Swagger Tungsten (1/8 oz): bit.ly/2UY7cgx
NED HEADS...
Micro- Z Man Micro Finesse Shroomz (1/15th): bit.ly/3QDdlw7
Tungsten- Swagger Flanders (1/10th): bit.ly/2KcIB6M
Lead- Z Man OG (1/32 - 1/16th): bit.ly/3nyFyZc
CRANKBAITS...
•Megabass Z-1 Crank: bit.ly/2Y9dkHB
Colors: Kasumi Ito, Wild Craw, Mat Craw 2
•Rapala Ultralight Crank: bit.ly/3qSt14V
Colors: Chrome, Shad
•Shimano Macbeth 39 Tiny: bit.ly/3xTsnG0
Colors: Clear Green Craw, Ghost Shad, Sleeper Shad
MICRO SWIMBAIT...
Bait- Keitech 2.8" Fat Swing Impact: bit.ly/2ab7s8v
Colors: Pro Blue Red Pearl, Electric Shad
Bait- Megabass 3" Spark Shad: bit.ly/2XcLZk4
Color: Real, Albino
Head- Dirty Jigs Guppy (1/8 with 1/0): bit.ly/2nyUJRS
TOPWATER...
•Evergreen Shower Blows 77.7: bit.ly/2zIkqUH
Colors: Black Bone, Full Metal
•Owner Cultiva Zip N Ziggy: bit.ly/3BTMLuh
Colors: Natural Minnow, Shiner, Brown Trout
•Whopper Plopper 60: bit.ly/2bsPbQV
Colors: Phantom Shad, Monkey Butt, Bone
•Rapala Ultralight Popper: bit.ly/3FzvsNP
Colors: Chrome, Clown, Yellow Perch
•Megabass Grand Siglett: bit.ly/3UMyhn6
Colors: Abura Zemi, Lamune Bug, Skeleton Sirius
NED/TEXAS RIG SOFT BAITS...
•Savage Gear Ned Salamander: bit.ly/3rSNi8g
Colors: Green Pumpkin Purple Copper, Mojito
•Z Man TRD CrawZ: bit.ly/2U9vx6P
Colors: Green Pumpkin, Canada Craw
•Zman TRD BugZ: bit.ly/2oiavEE
Colors: Sprayed Grass, Green Pumpkin, Canada Craw
•Zman TRD TicklerZ: bit.ly/2mGyDAC
Colors: Canada Craw, Houdini, The Deal
NED MICRO FINESSE SOFT BAITS...
•Zman Micro Finesse TRD: bit.ly/3d8bmBm
Colors: Coppertreuse, Green Pumpkin, The Deal
•Zman Micro Finesse TicklerZ: bit.ly/3BIABob
Colors: Green Pumpkin, Hot Snakes
INLINE SPINNER...
•Blue Fox Inline Spinner: bit.ly/3qAVlqb
Colors: Shiner, Shad
WANT TACTICALBASSIN GEAR??
TacticalBassin Apparel and Lure Designs: bit.ly/38YpPIz
_________________________________________________________________
If you plan to do any shopping, using our links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won't be able to even see a difference but they'll know you're one of us!
#baitfinesse #bfs #buyersguide

Пікірлер: 356

@Tbowie13 Жыл бұрын

Hey guys, my Mother has had brain surgery on multiple tumors and watching your buyers guide videos in the hospital has helped to get my mind off of some of this. I appreciate these guides each year, but they've been really special for me this year.

@jeohvanydelgado7125 Жыл бұрын

Praying for your mother 🙏

@frankbrown6088 Жыл бұрын

🔥🕊🔥 Yo!!!!!!! I DO BELIEVE ON THE HEALING OF OUR CREATOR! I DO PRAY AND BELIEVE ON A FULL RECOVERY!!!!! SALUTE...✊🏾

@Hendrix312002 Жыл бұрын

Praying for your mother

@Tbowie13 Жыл бұрын

@Robert Guss Thanks Robert, I appreciate that. It has progressed to hospice at home now. Regardless of the ultimate outcome, those prayers are always welcome! Hope you get some great fishing in this spring! Thanks again!

@FrancisAvogo Жыл бұрын

Praying for your mother

@waynemartin2288 Жыл бұрын

I was thrilled when you spoke about BFS last year. I have 1 Dobyns 700 spinning and casting, 1 7’ 2’’ Curado BFS and finally picked up last week a Expride 7’ 2’’ Med light +. Have caught numerous 4 plus on this gear. It’s phenomenal

@midwestfischerman Жыл бұрын

Thanks for exploring BFS Matt and Tim, I never thought two California Huddleston chucking swimbait guys would ever fall into this rabbit hole, very surprising, and very cool!!! I'm a spinning gear guy, so BFS, hmmm.🤔 I grew up using spinning gear in the Great Lakes region fishing for walleye and stream fishing for steelhead and salmon. Light tackle for giant fish is the name of that game, I think the thickest line we owned was 8 lb test mono. No one in my family used baitcasters, EVER. When I took up bass fishing in middle school I kept using nothing but spinning rods for decades, right up to a couple of years ago. I felt like I flipped and distance casted just fine with my spinning gear. I still love spinning gear, and my most expensive Diawa and Shimano reels are spinning reels and nicest rods are still spinning rods. Therefore, I suppose I will always be too much of a baitcaster newbie to be seduced by BFS....until the crazy actually BITES ME. These "smaller" baits and lures are the BULK of my arsenal for northern glacial waters with 30-foot visibility. My first PB largemouth was a prespawn 6-pound tanker caught on a 1/16 oz. marabou jig in about 15 feet of bathtub clear water. So, when it comes to BFS....I'm listening Matt and Tim, I'm listening. THANK YOU FOR ALL OF THESE VIDEOS!!!

@oldeschoolbob1022 Жыл бұрын

Inshore saltwater guy here, who has bested enough monsters on spinning gear to LOL hard when I hear spinners referred to as "fairy wands" and "sissy sticks". For me, the choice is easy; finesse = spin, power = baitcasting. Right tool, right time. I reel baitcasters with my left hand, so it's an easy transition. That being said; to each their own; if anglers want to use BFS in place of, or in addition to, spinning, have at it. I'm limited in what I can carry, so for me, it's either spinning or BFS. Easy choice. Good luck out there!

@midwestfischerman Жыл бұрын

@@oldeschoolbob1022 I use "left-handed" baitcasters too, because of the decades of using spinning reels.👍🏻

@MrDonohuea Жыл бұрын

I accidently caught a 35lb flathead while bfs fishing for smallmouth, while on a kayak. It's a good thing that I was on a kayak...It pulled me upriver like I was on a dog sled. That little curado bfs and the zodias handled it. Funniest catch of last summer. The year before it handled a school of wipers all day long.

@831BASSTACTICZ Жыл бұрын

Been watching this series day by day my head just auto programed this morning no alarm needed here I am😂😂🤔

@tacticalbassin Жыл бұрын

😂 That's hilarious! We're on the same schedule!

@831BASSTACTICZ Жыл бұрын

@@tacticalbassin not to mention the fact that I'm in CA watching this at 3:30 am as it hits knowing that I'ma be dead tired for the fishing trip 😂🙆 all good this content is priceless 🔥keep up the amazing work matt and Tim!

@MichaelCraig-bi3wj Жыл бұрын

I have sold most of my spinning gear, I have four BFS combos that I fish most of the time now. So much fun!!!

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

Same!

@vinelandguy Жыл бұрын

Literally 80% of what I'm using since they came out. I own two Curado BFS and Dobyns rods. Great combo.

@Huntn_fish365 Жыл бұрын

YES!! This is the one I was waiting for!

@bassnbonsai Жыл бұрын

Awesome Video and Finally you guys answered the question I've been trying to explain to everyone for years... Why BFS.. it's the funnest way to catch Fish... Secondary why is because guys like me can and have done away with spinning gear yet still throw any size baits we want to without issue... I'm glad you guys are loving the BFS .. I would like to mention that although not ideal there are several reels available that can be paired with a good bfs rod and still work.. the zillion sv boost spool comes to mind but only spooled halfway up.. but almost all the 70 size Daiwa sv or Shimano mgl spools are bfs capable of you already own one.. simply put light braid on any of the deeper sv spools and you can get started..

@kevinloper6551 Жыл бұрын

You guy's are so much fun to watch, good friends, great Fishing! 😀😂

@Internutt2023 Жыл бұрын

I purchased a Kastking Zephyr, with the "Bait Clicker" drag at the end of July 2023. I spooled it with some braid backer, finishing with Berkley FluoroShield copolymer 6 lb test ( .009in diameter ) and here is my experience. #1 - Although this reel can cast baits of 1/8 oz a fair distance, it does not have the magnetic brake adjustability to control the spool and prevent backlashes unless the adjustment is turned up close to its maximum. I played around with a Kastking Spartacus II, which is a bit heavier reel, but has the same issue, and found that, I could shim the magnet assembly closer to the spool ( on that reel only) with some thin washers, and get the brake to adjust to where I like it at about a 6 ~ 7 setting instead of max. #2 - The spacing between the spool and housing, even with a small tan colored plastic guard, still allows loops of .009in diameter line to get between the spool and housing during a backlash, ( which WILL happen) and slightly damaging the line in the process. This should be an unacceptable issue, and I am still on the fence on weather to return this reel, and just stick with an ultralight spinning rig, which has no such issues. I think the bottom line is, it's just manufactured to a "loose" tolerance in the brake and spool / housing edges, most likely so it won't have "issues" with rubbing, most likely because they don't trust the manufacturer's ability to control tolerances close enough to keep things from rubbing and having issues that way. I wouldn't personally recommend the Zephyr until they clearly address both issues.

@HeavenlySnipez Жыл бұрын

"Holdin' Grudges" You guys are THE BEST. Thanks for all that you do, and cheers to a new rod and reel for next year!!!

@jeremyduncan9165 Жыл бұрын

All things ultra light. That’s what we called it back in the day

@LiveBassFishing Жыл бұрын

I love it. BFS is so much fun. I almost get nervous over a 2 pounder like I do over a 7 or 8 on regular casting gear. So much fun. Thanks for putting me on this. I love that little Rapala ultra light pop. ❤

@dennisstewart7849 Жыл бұрын

Outstanding review of BFS. Anyone can do this and have on hell of a fun day. Thank you.

@TheConstantAngler Жыл бұрын

Great to see your enthusiasm for BFS and the direction it is going in the US. I myself caught the bug 3 years ago and now run a FB group for budget BFS with many US members. Some purists argue that what’s happening in the US is not really BFS but I like yourselves disagree. Finesse is the key word here and that is exactly what you guys are doing. Always loved your channel and have taken inspiration from it many times, applying it to my fishing over here in the UK. Some of us are also fishing BFS in the Saltwater now. Great video

@kesterharding1819 Жыл бұрын

Here we go baby. Thank you again for all the gems

@tacticalbassin Жыл бұрын

We're happy to do it 👍🏼

@leannesmith3660 Жыл бұрын

This is very informative and answered some questions. Thank you so much for this video! I see BFS in my future!

@clips0292 Жыл бұрын

My favorite duo on KZfaq dropping knowledge. Preciate y’all big time! Bout to order me a BFS setup. These Texas pond bass are gonna love these baits.

@travisbruno1988 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Matt and Tim you guys have made me so much better at fishing...My favorite way to fish is with my Curado BFS on my 6'8"ML rod. For some reason i just cant put the set-up down. I still power fish but i always have my BFS gear in my car. God Bless y'all and tight line's

@williamfaragher3671 Жыл бұрын

The feel is the deal ! When finesse fishing. With BFS, you feel every heart beat of your finesse lures and detect very supple strikes. BFS gives more sensitivity than spinning... Enjoyed the video ! Would like to see many more on BFS... Bill

@logannewman4532 Жыл бұрын

I've been a fan of ultralight spinning gear for a while. I'm stoked about having a way to cast super accurately with the tackle I'm already throwing. My favorite thing about ultralight gear is the multispecies aspect. I started finding species I didn't even know existed in certain bodies of water.

@donaldpeterson2793 Жыл бұрын

I think the one thing that I love most about the BFS category is because of the US not having like a dedicated section of baits it's actually made me think much more creatively in terms of what I can find for BFS and when I did open my mind to it the options are endless. I love your guys enthusiasm and I'm really interested in how you guys are flipping on this tackle. I'd love to see a breakdown video of your process. Thank you for your perspective on this category and I'm grateful for your presence in the Bass fishing world, cause a lot of professionals don't talk about this with the same passion for it that you do. Love you guys. God Bless and Happy turkey day!

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

Right! I’ve just been using the finesse baits from the bigger companies like 6th sense and I’ve had some killer results. Caught a 25 lb bag on a 1/4 oz 25x crankbait using the dobyns Sierra and kast king zephyr with 6 lb test. I’ve got a ton of videos of results of this technique on my channel! I’m glad you enjoy it too!

@BadSensation Жыл бұрын

Loved this one. Here in Europe BFS fishing for Perch is pretty much the gold standard at this point simply due to the pressure and size of the Perch. Incredibly fun stuff

@01KINGKENG Жыл бұрын

Bfs is something I just started to pick up and wow you wouldn’t believe how fun it is.

@kookiekookie8105 Жыл бұрын

Anything from Japan is on average 20-30% cheaper than in North America, no taxes, most of the time free shipping - plenty of relativity cheap Daiwa or Shimano BFS reels to choose from. As for rods, JDM light game casting rods is the way to go for ultimate fun and super light rigs. Most of those rods come two piece and are insanely lightweight. US market is at least 10 years behind to Japan when it comes to BFS.

@DrinkWetPoopFishing Жыл бұрын

Because of the exchange rate, i always buy my reels directly form Japan. It is much cheaper than buying them here and the shipping is fast. I typically get mine in a week. If you buy from Japan Lure Shop they always throw in a nice lure.

@xdh10x Жыл бұрын

Just finished up the night shift working on my birthday and get to wrap it up with you guys. Keep up the good work !!!

@sjammer Жыл бұрын

Lately all I have been using are my two BFS set ups. It is fun throwing small tackle on light line. Great video.

@ETuss713 Жыл бұрын

Great stuff. We use bfs inshore in our backlakes, bayous, and bays often. It works excellent for Specks, Reds, and Flounder.

@kentbrown5369 Жыл бұрын

Absolutely love bfs. I caught an 8 pound largemouth on 6 lb line with the Dobyns rod and an slx bfs reel this past spring. System worked flawlessly it took about 5 minutes to get the bass in but I never felt like I was not in control. Bfs is awesome

@catsmasher83 Жыл бұрын

Would you recommend that slx bfs reel?

@DrinkWetPoopFishing Жыл бұрын

I got into bfs this year and i'm finding it more enjoyable to fish with than my normal setup. I always carry a BFS setup everytime i go fishing now. The fight is much more exciting and they don't just catch small fish either. Got a 19" striper this year on my slx bfs, cu double UL rod, using 4lbs varivas mono.

@thadgeorge4984 Жыл бұрын

So we watch these reviews for years and get down to our 4 rods to cover everything, and now you show us BFS. So now i feel i do need 5 rods and reels to effectively cover everything. Lol.

@oldeschoolbob1022 Жыл бұрын

I see BFS as an "either / or" with spinning. I'm very comfortable with the spinners, so BFS is really a world I probably won't explore, especially since I am limited in how many combos I can carry.

@LoganWolf1984 Жыл бұрын

I started using BFS gear this year and it's a blast. I was in the camp... "Why would I use this if I have spinning gear". I quickly learned that BFS gear is not exactly spinning and it's not exactly like using a regular baitcasting setup. It's its own thing, which made it more fun. Another bait I would highly recommend is the Megabass Baby PopX.

@Czarlite Жыл бұрын

Another tip: shop for trout baits and use on BFS! Gonna need the lighter BFS rods to throw them, but throwing tiny jerkbaits for bass, trout, and crappie on BFS 🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽

@youtubzkoz Жыл бұрын

This is where it started. Bass and trout guys.

@skeeterboy77 Жыл бұрын

from someone who has been BFS fishing for 15+ years theres a ton of JDM options that dont cost a bunch and with the exchange rate right now its well worth exploring those options.. Dobyns also has a Sierra 701 now that is a Great all around BFS rod..

@oldeschoolbob1022 Жыл бұрын

I posed this question elsewhere in this thread. Why do you suppose BFS reels have been so slow in becoming available in the US market? I'm a spinning guy, so I don't really track BFS matters, but it strikes me as odd that this "hot trend" has not been embraced more fully by the US market.

@mattquinlan4629 Жыл бұрын

I also love my Dobyns Sierra 701! Does almost all pretty well in this category.

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

@@oldeschoolbob1022 BFS in Japan is a trout thing, not a bass thing. Bass anglers don't throw lures nearly as light as what trout guys are using and don't use line nearly as light either. Basically, what most US anglers use spinning gear for and consider "finesse" can pretty easily be fished well on a good medium (or even MH!) power baitcaster with a good reel. You just have to get out of the "power fishing" mindset and downsize your line, back off the drag and take is easy on the hookset. Some reels are better suited for it but finding the right rod to go lighter than 1/8oz has been the real challenge until very recently.

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

Dobyn's is up to 4 different rods now I believe. Two different lengths each in a 0 power and a 1 power. Difference between the two appears to be the action rather than the power, per se. The "1" power are a fast action while the "0" are marked "Moderate action with an Extra-Fast tip" Great rods and the SLX/Curado/Scorpion BFS reels don't do them justice.

@oldeschoolbob1022 Жыл бұрын

@@helotaxi That's interesting; thanks! I just bought an MGL reel at the TW sale, that I am planning to see how light I can go with. It's more for my curiosity than anything; I have a MH spinner that does a lot of what a M baitcaster would. I live in Florida, which is Power Fishing Central for largemouth, but I have found that scaling down is often a very good tactic. Looking even more forward to getting that SLX MGL in my hands now; good luck out there!

@Saber_Outdoors Жыл бұрын

Yes I needed this video.

@scottstieber1498 Жыл бұрын

love your channel fellas, I started on this BFS train around March of this year, a couple rods that fall into my budget are the Fenwick Elite Bass 6' 10" rated 4#-10# mono and the Phenix Featherlite FTX71L also rated 4#-10# mono (however these are not Ultra-lites) , my reels are CDM (Chinese Domestic Market) Soloking/Doviello Acura HICC-50, tossing 1/16-3/16oz Ned rigs, w/ 3" Keitech Minnows & Z-Man MinnowZs, 1/8-1/4oz Bitsy Bugs, & 1/8-1/4oz Pond Magic spinnerbaits, and some baby Rapala's; with 6# or 8# straight fluorocarbon & having the time of my life on this gear. there are quite a bit of reels available in the Zephyr class price range although they're coming from overseas. keep up the great work... luv it !!

@MrSeanWesty Жыл бұрын

Fun is the same reason we love ultra lite spinning gear for panfish and bass!!

@judegrantham258 Жыл бұрын

These guys know more about reel selection than I know how to breath respect ✊

@tacticalbassin Жыл бұрын

LOL! Thanks Jude!

@alexwilliams8131 Жыл бұрын

For a casting fan it’s hard to go back to spinning after trying BFS. I now have 4 combos strictly for bfs. You guys really need to check out the Daiwa alphas air and the steez air. I do love the Curado bfs but Daiwa is way ahead IMO. Also megabass has some other great rod options. The p5 bait finesse is amazing and the original destroyer Hein is one of the most beautifully styled rods I’ve ever seen. Best week of the year! Great job fellas

@gobybryant1001 Жыл бұрын

They are also more expensive lol

@Milehighsnake98 Жыл бұрын

The CT SV models do great. Get an ultralight BFS spool like a Roro or prorex and you're set for a lot less. And that's coming from someone who uses a Steez CT SV TW.

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

@@gobybryant1001 The Steez is for sure, but you can get the Alphas Air from Japan for about what a Curado BFS sells for in the US...or get an SLX BFS (I need to open mine up and confirm my suspicion that it's the same reel as the Curado) for about $120.

@AznKevin Жыл бұрын

@@helotaxi both the slx and curado are essentially the same. Same with the scorpion. I think there is like 1 or 2 parts that are different and they are minor.

@richnet12 11 ай бұрын

Thanks for the Owner rigging hook recommendation. This hook rigged texas style with a little ned rig has increased my hook ups!

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

I have used BFS in Fort Worth all year, and I am in LOVE with it too. Not just because it’s fun like you said, but because I’ve caught 2 fish over 8, a few 7s and multiple fish in the 5-6 pound class all using a dobyns Sierra 7’4” and a kastking zephyr with 6 lb Fluoro. I might be more of a “power” 😂 bfs technique guy, but anything I used to throw on a spinning rod, has been replaced with my BFS combos. Tip for everyone there are cheaper options at bfs empire and they normally always have some stuff in stock both rods and reels and baits. I’ve found using finesse stuff from companies like 6th sense are cheaper as well. I caught 25+ lb limit on a 6th sense 1/4 oz squarebill the crush 25x, caught a ton of big ones on a 2.7” divine swimbait and the 2.8” keitech on a guppy head, and literally a couple weeks ago I caught a 8.4 on the rapala ultralight crank which is only 1.5”. It’s amazing what this technique can produce in pressured fisheries. And because that’s pretty much all I fish, bfs has become my go to. I’ll leave some links to the videos of the 25 lb limit and two 8s that I’ve caught this year using bfs. Also don’t forget finesse JERKBAITS for this category. I’ve started experimenting with little duo realis and the nanahans from megabass on 6lb flouro and bfs and it’s going to be LETHAL this winter in Texas. They dive deeper and have better action on these 0 power rods. My fave is the sierras from dobyns and zephyrs. But bait finesse empire has a 80 dollar tsurinoya dragon rod and 60 dollar tsurinoya hurricane that makes a great budget option and is what I caught one of my 8s with. Great cranking combo. Alright here are those links to my results 👇🏽

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/osCWoLyqyM2bYnU.html. 8 pounder

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/b7WZh7qr2L-4knk.html . 25 lb limit

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/sK5_idFz376ddZc.html . 8.8 lb PB on 6 lb fluoro and bfs

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

But literally almost all my videos are bfs dominant, it works and is so much fun! Thank you matt for turning me onto this technique!

@Tone58 Жыл бұрын

Great video guys, thanks. I have a curado bfs and it's great. I've been throwing tiny lures1/8, 3 inch Basstrix, 4 inch fluke unweighted for years on regular reels. Aldebaran, Lewis SLP lite, curado 70 as easily as the bfs reel. Phenix feather ml 7'2" works great.

@youtubzkoz Жыл бұрын

BFS is fun. Fun from bank or boat. Fun if you are taking the kids out. Fun for multi species.

@youtubzkoz Жыл бұрын

BFS for trout is awesome.

@snipehunter28 10 ай бұрын

I always enjoy your videos. I have been Bass fishing longer than either of you have been alive and have seen quite an evolution in how we fish. I just purchased my first somewhat BFS setup. I went with the 6'10" ML Curado rod and a highly rated inexpensive reel from overseas (Dark Wolf Ultra). I set my limit on what I would call bait finesse at lures weighing no more than 1/4 oz. I was able to find versions of every type of lure covering the water column from top to bottom that fit within my weight restriction. I am mostly a power fisherman and fish Florida lakes with heavy vegetation. I am looking forward to hitting the water next week with light 1/8 oz spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, swim jigs, and even 1/8 oz. micro chatterbaits. I'm not sure if I can win the battle if I hook a big fish in the hydrilla jungle but I am going to have fun trying.

@timhigdonoutdoors5276 Жыл бұрын

Thanks guys great video!! I just ordered my second BFS combo. Dobyns rod Shimano reel.

@bryceslavik6730 Жыл бұрын

Hi guys, I know you said BFS started with a Shimano‘s 70. But really started way before that in my opinion. But it was not called BFS. Back in 2007, 2008 Daiwa what came out with the Team Daiwa TD Sol baitcaster. Small in size and cast all those baits that you were showing on my G Loomis DSR820 C drop shot bait casting rod. Which you cannot find anymore. Then came out the Daiwa SV105P which is the same body as the TDSOL. I believe that came out long before the Shimano 70 did. Phenomenal reels!! I use that for my BFS, I can cast all those baits that you mentioned. Now Daiwa has the alpha series which is based off those reels that you can’t get today! As you can tell I’m probably in Daiwa fan as you are a Shimano fan which is all good. I love your videos thanks

@bassinbilliards6279 Жыл бұрын

Before BFS gear & Ned rigs the zoom tiny brushhog & 4" lizard where my go to back I'm 2004-2007 time frame. I had no idea about Huddleston taking over 18lbers haha. I did know I was catching 40 fish on 6lb spinning rods at Lake sonoma.

@DavidBronstein1961 Жыл бұрын

Lucky Craft Pointer 65 is a killer pond bait on spinning gear. Gotta think it would be great on bfs. Blue gill color is my fav. Very subtle and natural color/bait.

@ledgebuster Жыл бұрын

Shhhhhh

@chrismcvey908 Жыл бұрын

Nice video guys. Always learn a lot from you gents. Also happy about the big shout out to Kastking. Their new Kestrel Elite BFS is insanely awesome and is also available in the US

@calebriemer8763 Жыл бұрын

Awesome info! Will be trying to get into BFS this year!

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

Do it you’ll love it

@verbillionairepcttv3068 Жыл бұрын

Damn my dudes up early!!!

@tacticalbassin Жыл бұрын

Every day 👊🏻

@midwestfischerman Жыл бұрын

Hey Matt, I just saw KastKing launched the Kestrel Elite Magnesium Frame BFS Finesse Baitcasting Reel. It goes for about $220 and seems like an ENORMOUS step up from the Zephyr. HA, NOW THE TABLES ARE TURNED! I'm now TEMPTING YOU to spend YOUR CASH!!!🤑💰🤣

@tacticalbassin Жыл бұрын

Ha! Oh we've seen it, but $220 was pretty hefty for the brand's history. It's constantly tempting me and has even made it in the cart a couple times.

@midwestfischerman Жыл бұрын

@@tacticalbassin IMO, AVOID THE TEMPTATION!!! Cheap KastKing gear was my step into baitcaster rods and reels after growing up in Michigan using only spinning gear. I found both KastKing rods and reels LACK DURABILITY. You may be deceived by great performance out of the gate, but will then be heartbroken when the cheap material used rears its ugly head and your rods and reels begin to scratch up and break down.

@bobinmo251 Жыл бұрын

The new 2022 Aldebaran is available everywhere in the US and right now it's in stock for $290 on Amazon. Definitely the #1 BFS reel anywhere.

@losangelesbfs Жыл бұрын

late to this video…but thank you for this!!!! best one yet

@FreedomFishing Жыл бұрын

Excited to hear Kastking's name in a buyer's guide as well! Officially getting a BFS for the dropshot now.

@tito_a_tv Жыл бұрын

I'm fishing using an Ultralight spinning rod and reel. I want to try BFS. Thanks to your video I've now idea on BFS.

@jamesc.murray5932 Жыл бұрын

Refreshing to see Matt getting even with Tim regarding their holiday videos.: Tim's "Long-winded" side-comment in a previous holiday video got paid-back with Matt watching Tim struggle with the name of a bait, within this video. Really, you two make a great pair of fishermen. Because you both have different character traits...

@BassManStrikes Жыл бұрын

I have even caught huge catfish on my BFS setup and I thought it was the Mother of all Bass 🤣😁

@HntrSvrsn Жыл бұрын

I love my ultra light spinning rod I bet bfs is a riot

@chrisjackson6115 Жыл бұрын

You told me to wait till today and wasn't lying My fishing partner and I also use the SUF 700C for crappie fishing instead of spinning rod for casting to them 🔥🔥🔥

@bruceksdwilson Жыл бұрын

I know you guys probably know. That's shimano makes a JDM BFS version of the aldebaran.I have one and its nice.

@albarron4022 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this… been wanting to get into BFS but had no idea where to start

@seriousmechanicing Жыл бұрын

The Daiwa Gekkabijin Air TW PE Special reel is sweet and you should try it even though it's not available at Tackle Warehouse. In Asia many people use PE line .6 or smaller (12lb braid to westerners) straight to reaction baits. I have found this to be very effective and despite my initial skepticism the braid has not suppressed the bite. I enjoy the Duo Spearhead Ryuki Spinners, the Shimano Macbeth 39, and the OSP Louder 50 for the technique.

@johnbutler307 Жыл бұрын

I want to get started with the BFS. T.hanks for the great video

@tacticalbassin Жыл бұрын

You should!

@FishingWithChris_Tv Жыл бұрын

I don’t BFS for bass very often, mostly for crappie and the setups are pretty similar. The rods are known for being good alternative BFS rods and are much cheaper than a lot are. The Shakespeare 4’6”-7’ micro series UL and the bass pro crappie maxx 6’ L are what I use, paired with a kastking zephyr and typically 4-6lb seagaur floro or hi vis mono.

@kalecastaneda Жыл бұрын

I just did it! The dobyns sierra rod, zephyr reel and some of the baits listed. I’m so excited!!!!!!!! Thanks guys. I ordered through your links.

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

I did the same thing last year when they posted this buyers guide video. You will love it. I’m hooked. I’ve caught 2 8s, a few 7s, and a ton of 5-6 lbers and more bass than I’ve ever caught in Fort Worth. And that’s just with 1 year of working on it! Have fun man!

@kalecastaneda Жыл бұрын

Dang! I need to fish in Texas at your spots lol! Sounds like so much fun! Can’t wait. Fishing still makes me feel like a little kid!

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

@@kalecastaneda you’ll catch more fish than you ever have when you get it dialed in!

@kalecastaneda Жыл бұрын

What line should I run?

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

@@kalecastaneda 6 lb fluoro has been the best for me, get some good stuff though. I use seguar red label. The 6 is versatile. And then if you wanna try some topwater when it gets warm again 10 lb braid is perfect. But you can go smaller to 8 lb braid as well for more casting distance.

@frankwestphal4525 Жыл бұрын

15:18 this is why Matt and Tim need to try flyfishing for bass!

@williamfaragher3671 Жыл бұрын

Fly fishing for smallmouth bass on light glass gear is sublime... Bill

@lightningmusky5286 Жыл бұрын

Bfs is fun. You can go panfishing with BFS if you wanted to. Old school pond fishing!

@oldeschoolbob1022 Жыл бұрын

Old school? I'm in. Give me a minute to find a cane pole.

@dustinmcelreath5667 Жыл бұрын

@TacticalBassin you guys oughta try the dynamic lures trout crankbait out. I've used it for years fishing for rainbows in streams and they have worked out great with my BFS gear for bass. I usually fish it like a micro jerkbait. I first started using dynamic lures for pike years ago, they make great stuff!

@cloakoffeathers7217 Жыл бұрын

SLX 70 MGL and a Dobyns Fury 703C is the closest setup I have to bait finesse. It actually does very well with Ned rigs and 2.8 keitechs, but anything less is a no go.

@gregc7314 Жыл бұрын

Hard to get is right. I just received a Curado BFS and ordered November 2021. Forgot I still had it on order lol. When I got the notification from TW, I figured why not, I can use a 4th BFS setup. Pretty much stopped using spinning rods. L and ML Phenix Feathers make great BFS rods.

@shawng3340 Жыл бұрын

YES!!!

@ReelAZMatt Жыл бұрын

I want to try the heavy bfs for flipping, that sounds awesome. My bfs combo is a megabass triza aello and a daiwa alphas air SV tw. I can cast the whole spool across the pond it is such a fantastic outfit to fish and weighs nothing.

@Marvld1 Жыл бұрын

Try this Rod out Megabass P5 Siglett. Talk about lite. Using some of the tiny lite baits I can find. Pared with the Shimano BFS IN THE VIDEO. GOing trout fishing or crappie fishing but put a Bass on it hang on for the ride. So so much fun

@grantdavis8287 Жыл бұрын

KastKing has come out with a second BFS reel. I forgot what it’s called but it’s in the price range of the curado if y’all hadn’t seen that one yet. Cool video👍🏻

@shannonstewart4203 Жыл бұрын

It is the Kestrel Elite BFS but they also have a cheaper model called the Valiant Eagle II. There are some pretty interesting videos on here about them both.

@ballzybaits4414 Жыл бұрын

lol, I was literally checking out BFS reels seconds before this. hahaha

@law1831 Жыл бұрын

I've had great success using the newer 70 sized reels on these bfs rods. The shimano slx mgl 70, curado mgl 70, and my daiwa sw tw CT 70 all handle straight 6lb flouro without problem. It's such a fun way to fish. I throw drop shot, Ned rig, micro jigs (2.5 to 5 gram), shaky head, and tiny Texas rigs with em

@DavidBronstein1961 Жыл бұрын

Interesting! Been thinking of using my Curado 70 on a bfs rod. What bfs rod(s) are you using?

@law1831 Жыл бұрын

@@DavidBronstein1961 shimano expride bfs, megabass p5 destroyer bait finesse, and a megabass p5 destroyer pop-x stick for small topwaters

@juliolua2104 Жыл бұрын

I've been using bfs for decades here in the US... I just got a small baitcaster and filled it up with 8# test and a medium/light baitcaster rod and that was my finesse approach using small lures on a baitcaster... you could probably throw lighter baits with the actual bfs.

@Aloudcar Жыл бұрын

Ifishband clamber hyper micro is a great reel for bfs, can throw a few grams easily and has clicking drag. Paired with a major craft 6’5 rated 1/32-1/4 and it is a blast to fish with

@kylepowers9223 Жыл бұрын

Thank you guys from the awesome and informative videos on BFS! There is however an issue with one of your products that are linked to Tackle Warehouse. Specifically the link for the Shimano Macbeth Tiny 39F Crankbait actually links to Shimano Macbeth 63 Original Crankbaits in a 5/8th Oz size. I did not notice this until i received my order from Tackle Warehouse recently and I am currently exchanging it for a tiny version instead of the original size. I wanted to give you guys a heads up so that future viewers will get the link to the right product and thank you again for the great information and breakdown on the different products. I appreciate all the hard work that you guys put into your channel.

@hammer9856 Жыл бұрын

If you're looking for a budget BFS entry rod try the Shimano Sensilite (around $60). It won't compare to the suggestions here, but it's a great entry budget BFS rod paired with the Zephyr to get into BFS. One caution on the Zephyr: Use 8# line as anything less will tend to get caught between the spool and the reel frame. I'm hoping that Shimano will bring the SLX BFS to the States soon. It should be a great step up from the Zephyr that won't break the bank for us budget fishermen. Since getting my BFS combo I find I rarely bring a spinning rod on the boat.

@oldeschoolbob1022 Жыл бұрын

Thank you, gentlemen, and congratulations on the Wardrobe Change. 🤣🤣 . I'm way too comfortable with spinning gear (my Fury ML spinner and 6-lb. test is amazing until the cover gets too heavy for my comfort zone) to dip my toe into the world of BFS, but it definitely seems to be a growing trend. I wonder why new reels have been so slow into the market; is the technology in adapting a baitcaster to channel its inner spinning reel that complex? Or maybe the companies aren't buying into the movement. It seems curious that there are so few reels available for what so many believe to be a trend rather than a fad. Thank you for all of the great guides, looking forward to the next!

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

It's a very niche market. The US bass fishing landscape is dominated by power fishing with heavy rods, heavy line and stout hooks. There are regions where the very idea of using a spinning rod is reserved for "perch jerkers" or kids. BFS is way more specialized than a lot of guys are willing to go and the lack of available equipment is further deterrence. Of course the two factors compound each other. Why is no one using it? Can't get it. Why can't we get it? No one is using it so we don't want to stock it.

@BassManStrikes Жыл бұрын

The biggest thing for me is the ability to not use spinning gear for anything 😉 Been using BFS for years but just this past season really used it exclusively and had amazing success. Kastking Kestrel Elite and Cashion Icon BFS is a killer combo.

@brandonthibodeaux1626 Жыл бұрын

Guys absolutely love the videos. 2 quick questions, could you do a buyer’s guide for kids getting into the sport, like rods for shorter kids, clothing for sun protection and cold, life jackets? And how do you guys compare edge rods at the same price points to other brands?

@Skunko5000 Жыл бұрын

Yes Need buyers guide for kids

@Plee92 Жыл бұрын

Bfs for trout. It's fun

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

That's where it started.

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

The SLX BFS, which is what you can get on a budget JDM, sells for less than $120 with the current exchange rate. Built on the same frame as the Curado and the Scorpion BFS. The KastKing Zephyr works and is available. It has WAY too much drag and the drag isn't very progressive; it's either off or too much. KastKing also has the Kestrel that came out earlier this year. I've got one that I haven't gotten a chance to use yet. It feels pretty good in the hand and has the design elements of the JDM BFS reel as far as the super shallow and light spool and well designed magnetic brakes. Reading reviews, the QC is spotty on them but the customer service is very good as it should be for a $220 reel. Which brings us to JDM. The SLX BFS, which is what you can get on a budget JDM, sells for less than $120 with the current exchange rate. Built on the same frame as the Curado and the Scorpion BFS. The Aldebaran BFS is in the $275 range and the Daiwa Alphas Air is about $225. You don't get customer support from Shimano NA or Daiwa USA, but they're quality reels which means you're not going to need it 99.9% of the time.

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

The real limiting factor until very recently for what a lot of US anglers would consider finesse (Ned Rig, drop shot, shaky head, weightless worm) has been the rod, not the reel. I've been doing this for 7+ years now and have scoured the US market for rods that will actually load with lighter baits. Phenix rods have been my go-to until the Dobyn's rods dropped. The Maxim 6'10" MH is a real sleeper and there's a ML in that length as well as a 7'3". There are ML and L powers in the Feather, M1 and Recon Elite series that split the gap between the Dobyn's and Shimano rods in power. Look around your local Bass Pro and Academy Sport (if you're lucky enough to have one, sorry if you're like me and west of OKC) for the smaller rods in L and ML power in their house brands. They're actually hidden gems here. Finally, there are 2 ML models in the Shimano Clarus line that match the action and power of the ones in the Curado line for half the price. TW doesn't carry those models and I've been hard pressed to find them online anywhere. Only reason that I know that they exist is I found one a few weeks ago in a small tackle/hunting/gun shop in NW FL when I was visiting. Didn't have a way to get it home so I didn't buy it.

@carlgottgetreu5358 Жыл бұрын

I had this summer with the a Z-man Flashback chatter bait on the Dobyns sierra with the Kastking BFS reel. A carp took me for a run

@theimmortalboss Жыл бұрын

Heck yeah I was able to curado bfs reel it was in stock at tackle warehouse. Also swoop the sierra rod!

@maxcole3930 Жыл бұрын

Haven't gotten into the bfs gear yet, not to say I won't. I know it's gotta be a blast fighting fish on smaller gear. Not dealing with line twist from spinning rods

@Ed-rp4te Жыл бұрын

Your videos are outstanding and I watch everyone. I’m just getting into BFS and I’m using the Curado BFS reel with a 7ft Curado medium light rod. What a blast. I am looking for your opinion of the Shimano Alderbaran BFS reel and what your rod recommendation would be to pair it with.

@Anothermidwestfisherman Жыл бұрын

The daiwa tatula 70 and 80 are incredible bfs reels as well

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

Do they have shallow spools?

@collinsalwaysfishing Жыл бұрын

my BFS(ish) setup is a Shimano Clarus 7'2 Med light with a Shimano Curado 70 MGL k . not a true BFS setup but still so fun. you actually have to fight a 1 pound bass its really fun i highly suggest looking into the budget options if u want to get started.

@helotaxi Жыл бұрын

That 70MGL paired with that rod will do 99% of what most US anglers use a spinning rod for. And you don't give up anything going to the SLX 70MGL from the Curado. Can just about get the Clarus/SLX combo for the price of the Curado reel alone.

@bozhang9606 Жыл бұрын

Path for fishing: use worm to catch bluegill ➡️ bought Heavy power equipment to catch Big fish ➡️ micro finesse And these are the gears I bought this year: Daiwa alphas SV TW 800s Tatula elite TAEL701MLRB Shimano vanford C2000SHL Shimano Zodias 268ML

@jbertran1972 Жыл бұрын

Hey guys, my favorite video so far from the buyers guide! I have the 6'3 Expride BFS light rod paired with the Shimano Curado BFS and it's incredible! I was wondering why you guys didn't talk about this rod and also which Plano box are you using for your micro cranks?

@willtraveltofish Жыл бұрын

Man I was just searching all over the net and YT for an “American style” finesse jig rod and BAM you suggest the Zodias and Expride! I have a custom spiral wrapped 7’2” M/L fast that worked wonders this year but need something a little more stout for those 1/4-3/8oz micro/finesse jigs (total weight). Thanks 👊🏼🎣

@orangef3802 Жыл бұрын

I live in western Washington where the bass are naturally smaller and much more pressured. The 'normal' techniques and lure sizes don't quite work where I live (not that I'm saying I'm good though lol). I've had to downsize over the years, and now the largest hook in my box is a 1/0 and heaviest weight is 3/8oz. Anyway, if you have the money for it, BFS is great; if not, lighter spinning tackle will do the job just as well! Tight Lines everyone!

@oldeschoolbob1022 Жыл бұрын

I'm in Florida, arguably the largemouth power fishing capital of the world, and I throw a 1/16 Texas rig on 6-lb. spinning gear all the time. I'm convinced that downsizing can improve your odds when dealing with pressured fish.

@jcataldo1988 Жыл бұрын

Great video guys! I just got my hands on the Curado BFS and the Dobyns should be coming tomorrow. When do you recommend braid vs straight fluoro with BFS? What are the advantages disadvantages to each? I've only thrown real light braid/fluoro on spinning gear. I also noticed a lot of guys recommending 4 strand braid on BFS, is that intentional to get some additional stiffness and avoid backlashes?

@shanescott3168 Жыл бұрын

I don't think I am ready for BFS but BFS gives me confidence in using smaller baits with the equipment I already own. I immediately thought you could accidentally catch a bunch of crappie, bluegill and white bass with BFS while trying to catch black bass. I like to catch fish when I go out and don't mind if they are smaller.

@clintonbruning Жыл бұрын

Every now and then you’ll catch a monster drum or carp on these little baits and then you’re in for a BIG fight. Happens to me all the time 😂