Oh How the Monkey...

[BigBassin144]

LOVES SALES!! (the monkey actually took it easy on me since I agreed to post that link to the TW 15% off sale!)

Well, I figured I could take some out of my graduation money for a little graduation present for myself. So, along with some rod and reel covers and a spool of line. Here is it along with some VERY first impressions:

My new Senko/Worm rod!





Paired with my Daiwa Viento. A great combo, visually and ergonomically.





I was very impressed with it as I slid it out of that cardboard tube. Visually, a GREAT looking rod. I haven't gone over it super thoroughly yet, but upon a quick first check, nothing wrong.

Fuji ECS reel seat, very nice and very comfortable. I gotta give Dobyns points for sticking with what works here!



I went with the split grip, even though the rear grip is a little small. I casted it a bit, and it didn't seem too bad. Time will tell.



The butt cap, displaying the Dobyns Rods logo. Very nice. Not as cool looking as an aluminum one (like on the Vendetta) but much more durable.



The cork, while it has some filler, is still high grade. Less pits than my Loomis IMX. A look at the cork and the nice blue trim, another very good looking touch.



Let's not forget, one thing Dobyns Rods are known for: their balance. The rod balances about 6-7" inches from the mid point of the reel seat without my Viento. Respectable for a 7' rod, and this is a 7'3"!

With my Viento, a Great match! While fishing with it for about 15 minutes, I forgot several times that I was fishing with a rod over 7'.



A more detailed review and comparison to a Loomis MBR843 IMX to come later this year, along with more pics!

If the rod lives up to the first impressions (which I think it will), this will definitely not be my last Dobyns Rod.

BB