04-11-2014, 10:26 PM
I can't really compare Abu to other "higher end" equipment, but I do love my Abu Garcia poles.
I used to just buy the cheap combos but I got tired of them crapping out, so last year I ponied up for a good setup.
I bought Abu Garcia's "Villain" spinning rod, 7ft medium, and paired it with their Cardinal STX30 reel. LOVED IT!
It's crazy sensitive, light, and very well balanced.
This year I just bought a "Veracity" rod, also 7ft medium, and paired it with their Cardinal STX40 reel. I've only hooked one trout so far on the new pole, but it feels a tad stiffer, and the Cardinal STX40 doesn't feel quite as smooth as the 30 (imo)
I fish primarily for trout, and the Villain was very fun to use with trout of any size- I was catching everything from planters to 18-19"-ers all last summer with it. Hooked a few bass on it too.
Until they piss me off somehow, I'm going to stick to their gear, most likely, from now on.
The Cardinal STX reels run about $50, and (iirc) I paid about $80 each for the rods.(Sale prices)
A friend has their Veritas casting rod with micro guides (I don't know what reel), and loves it.
[signature]
I used to just buy the cheap combos but I got tired of them crapping out, so last year I ponied up for a good setup.
I bought Abu Garcia's "Villain" spinning rod, 7ft medium, and paired it with their Cardinal STX30 reel. LOVED IT!
It's crazy sensitive, light, and very well balanced.
This year I just bought a "Veracity" rod, also 7ft medium, and paired it with their Cardinal STX40 reel. I've only hooked one trout so far on the new pole, but it feels a tad stiffer, and the Cardinal STX40 doesn't feel quite as smooth as the 30 (imo)
I fish primarily for trout, and the Villain was very fun to use with trout of any size- I was catching everything from planters to 18-19"-ers all last summer with it. Hooked a few bass on it too.
Until they piss me off somehow, I'm going to stick to their gear, most likely, from now on.
The Cardinal STX reels run about $50, and (iirc) I paid about $80 each for the rods.(Sale prices)
A friend has their Veritas casting rod with micro guides (I don't know what reel), and loves it.
[signature]