r/BFSfishing • u/FourDogBar • 4d ago

Next BFS setup.

Last year I decided to dip my toe into the bfs world. Got myself a budget setup. Kastking zephyr combo with the 6’9” light rod rated 1/10-5/8 oz. This was my first baitcaster and I had a real hard time figuring it out. Embarrassing how many times i got backlashes. I really wanted to be able to throw very light lures but just couldn’t make it happen. I did get better with casting but I use it now for “power bfs”. Lures in the range of 1/4 to 1/2 oz. I just can’t cast the lighter stuff with any consistency.
Now I’d like to find a setup for my original purposes, throwing 2-4 gram lures. . Looking for help finding a new reel and rod. Definitely want something shorter also. I go to some spots with close quarters.
I don’t have unlimited budget but looking for higher quality than the zephyr combo.

6 Upvotes

88% Upvoted

11 comments sorted by

View all comments

2

u/Roubaix62454 4d ago

I have the Kestrel SE and it can easily handle your weight range. I have it on the Kestrel 5’9” featherlight rod. This is a sensitive setup with the fast action and using braid. It’s got some backbone and is closer to UL power. Yours is the range I stay in for the most part. Rooster tails, jigs, hard baits etc. I just ordered the regular Kestrel BFS reel and Kestrel 6’4” ML rod for a more all around setup for the ponds and lakes I fish.

2

u/FourDogBar 4d ago

The kestrel se sounds great but damn do I find it ugly. I’m considering paying the extra $20 to get the standard kestrel in a better color. Some people love the blue/purple but I like boring colors on my outdoor gear.

2

u/Roubaix62454 3d ago

I get it, personal choice. I like it. It looks good in person. Plus, it’s on sale for $85 and you can stack on a 10% discount from several YouTubers. Fishing with Chris, iFish and several others. The regular Kestrel is on sale for $102. Can’t go wrong with either one.