Paul Arendtsen

I think the long handle is what kinda sold me on the 806 ML, that plus 12 new fuji alconite guides I won't be using a lot of top water, mostly hudds and treble baits.... I also use braid so I'm pretty sure I can set a hudd jig hook just fine

How is the S-waver 200, I have heard it don't work to well compared to the 168..

I would call Gloomis and see what they say before adding any epoxy, they might pay for it to be shipped back to them...

Was it the BB thumper tail? I have never tried them, how do they compare to say a Hudd? wish I could find video of one swimming.... Bummer on losing the swimbait

Got the rod today, the built is excellent and the rod is so SO light and balanced.. I also love the long handle, I'm 6'3" with long arms so it will work perfect. It does feel like it would be a bit light powered for 8" hudd baits but I haven't fished it yet. So far I like everything about it though

What's your favorite glides baits?

65lb suffix 832 is what I use. I also use a wire leader for muskie...

LH ordered, should be here soon with tackle warehouse 2 day shipping

Think I will go with the dobyns champion XP 806 ...or the 806 LH What is the lightest lure the 806 will cast, and the heaviest? Gotta know before a order one LOL.

Not until about March...

I think I will pass on the Okuma then and snag a higher end. What about Phenix ultra swimbait rods? I'm also open to suggestions, I did want a white label LDC but they are always out of stock

Yup! happens to me every year....I HATE WINTER. But it is a good time to stock up with new gear, that's about the only way to make it through

I use swimbaits because I want the largest fish possible, I also love the equitment and the feeling of using such heavy action gear is fun, its also nice to know that when you finally do get bit, its most likely going to be something large. Where I live we also have giant Muskie, so that is also a benefit for using swimbaits. I been using swimbaits for about 7 to 8 years now....

One other quick question. How long is the Mike Long handle on the 806 vs the Okuma guide select A series handle?

Hello all, new member but not to new to swimbaits. I been using Okuma for years now, I used the older version guide select and I recently sold my newer guide select A series to my son in law, it was the Heavy version. It was a good rod but seemed a bit light for the 8" hudds. Now I have around $300 for a new rod, I need one good versatile rod. The reel I will be using is a Shimano curado 301e. Heaviest bait would be around 5oz and the lightest being around 2oz So far the rods I have picked are- Dobyns champion XP 806, 806 ML or the 796. Phenix M1 8' H, Phenix M1 inshore 7'9" H or the Phenix classic heavy. Or save some money and get a new Okuma guide select XH. I wish I could hold them all to see what I liked haha. Thanks for any help....