Hey Mark,

Have been in the market for another UC rod and having a difficult time deciding since I would like something that can be used for live bait and for jigs.

Been looking at the RCE 800 Del Mar, Wahoo, and Monster. Thoughts on these three? Applications and what they work best with, including reels.

Usually fish 1.5-2.5 day SD sporties as well if this helps narrow down the targeted fish.

Thank for any input.

Colin

What line test are you thinking? If 40, absolutely go Monster. The Wahoo is really best suited to heavier wahoo oriented jigs ~ 6 oz, Del Mar more of a 50#. New Reaper also in the play, but it's more a surface iron piece. Go Monster, it's one of the blanks that made GUSA/UC's reputation.

Hey Mark,
I wound up going with the RCE 800 Del Mar. Didn’t like the Monster as much as I though I would. I was considering the Reaper since FHS and having it custom made, but was not really in the market for a jig stick so my direction changed.

Now onto a reel. Like my Okuma line up and eyeing the Alijos, but just not digging the Mak style reel handles yet. Hmmmm

Colin

I must have missed you at our shop?
All good, but there's always room for a Monster. Just the light weight of the Monster can be off putting for a fellow who's used to lugging a 90J around. You've got to feel a Monster loaded up casting an appropriate weight jig and/or bait. Very useful rod. Del Mar, that was Randy's first new addition to the lineup I believe, and he is a jig tosser. So, probably does feel more natural in your hands I'm guessing. On the reels, don't discount the Tesorro on a jigstick, great casting reels. Accurate Terns are also getting a lot of play, 500/600N. An Alijos might do the trick, but look at gear ratio and line retrieve rate. If 40#, an Avet JX is a wonderful reel, G2 version worth the $ and the MC feature - even for someone with a good thumb - can be a very nice plus, especially if you are running primarily braid.