The last two years I've been using lighter line, specifically 8# Sunline monofilament. Most of what's in my little tackle box is 1/4oz or less, not necessarily meaning "small" (I've got 4" hair/feather tail jigs at 1/8oz and a 4" paddle tail on a 1/16oz jighead is perfect). So, in keeping with my preferred line and techniques, I landed this new rig: Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS on a Kistler Texas Mag rod. Wow. I'm impressed.



I've been using an Aldebaran on a ML Kistler Z Bone for the last couple years and while it's still a fine rig I do prefer the round Conquest reel and the action of the new rod is, in my experience, better than the Z Bone. I figured if I'm going to throw light lures on light line I might as well have a rod/reel setup designed for doing just that.

Anyone else gone BFS in the salt?

Nice, Buc! I don't know much about BFS rods and reels, but a friend has been buying from Japan since when you had to have an export agent. He just set up a Daiwa Zillion with a Roro spool and super thin braid on some UL rod he got from Japan. He can chunk a 1/16 oz. lure out of sight. Way beyond my capability and interest. He uses his in the central Texas streams and here on the coast. IslandJim

I have admired that reel, but never have got to cast around with one... Looks good and I too like the round reels.

Looks like a pretty sweet setup. This guy https://www.finesse-fishing.com/ used to sell a lot of Japanese domestic market ultra-light gear. He had rods, reels, lures, line, hooks and other terminal tackle. I think Covid wiped him out as he is selling off what he has and doesn’t seem to be stocking anymore. He has some good info about specific rods and reels.

Very nice!

are you fishing that reel in saltwater and do they make a left handed model?

Yes. Living on the island, salt is everywhere.......marshes, saltgrass flats, etc. It's all aluminum so no worries with corrosion. And yes, they do make a left handed model but, like the right handed one, they are hard to find. Ordered this one from Japan as none could be found in the states.

thank you

What size single hooks are you using on that minnow lure?
Are they C'ultiva?
I was going to order some online but don't know what size to start with.
I was looking at Bait Finesse Empire. Where do you get your BFS supplies?

Those are Owner in-lines, size 1, from Tackle Warehouse. The rule of thumb is two steps down in size for singles replacing trebles: #10 trebles replaced by #6 in-lines, for example. Personally I prefer three steps, meaning #10 trebles are replaced with #4 in-lines. It varies a bit depending on the particular lure. BFE is as good as any place for BFS stuff. Rapala makes a good series of mini hard baits that are very good for BFS fishing.

Thanks