mconn11

Tightlines soft plastics have been marketing UV baits for years - here's their explanation of it: https://tightlinesuv.com/technology

Yes, It's my og wood punker rod (6" and 8"). It's stiffer than the 795 ( as you would imagine) and the handle is a little bit longer than I would like for working topwater, but I'm all of 5'6 so it is what it is. I've thrown 68's on it, haven't thrown 8 in hudds but I think it could work in a pinch. 4 oz is about as much as I'd toss on it (comfortably). I have spoken to one of the guys at Dobyns before I bought it, and he did say that the rod should really be described as more med-heavy than heavy. Prefer the 806 for treble baits (except punkers and smaller rats). Let me know if I can help more.

Congrats man, way to go!

That's awesome, man. You should post more photos of your hand-made lure! Rep'ing New England!

Any opinions on which rod to go with? They are both 8 footers rated for 3-10 oz, and my understanding is that the hudd rod (my Matt Newman - Irod) has spiral guides, which I have no experience with. I know it's likely preference, but if you were to have one for throwing primarily 8 in hudds, what's your pick? Thanks!

Re: 68 weedless If you really only want to throw the 68, I like to throw the weedless 68 on the Dobyns Champion 795, but that's just me. The ROF5 is only 2 oz, and the ROF12 is about 2 1/3 oz, and the 795 is rated for 1-5 oz, but a 68 works really well with it. The moment that you go to a 8 inch hudd though, you'll be looking for another rod (like an 806 or 807).

Just curious if anyone still throws the go-to minnow? I saw that black dog baits no longer shows them on their site, not sure when they stopped. Also curious if those who have thrown them think that they're comparable to some of the much more expensive minnow-style wake baits? Thanks.