Affordable Access To JDM Baitcasting
Looking for ultimate versatility and performance within the mid-budget sector
Since a while I’m considering to go for a first JDM baitcasting combo. Since then I did an intensive online research for reels and rods that are not only lightweight, versatile but also affordable. After consulting the known websites and resources I ended up with a handful of promising still very different models and manufacturers - my personal favourites ‘ll be featured in the following.
Starting with reels that fulfil the main requirements of durability, lightweightness and smooth drag performance - the eligible candidate was quickly found. The Alphas 103 model by japanese tackle giant Daiwa not only impresses with versatility and perfect execution right down to the last detail, it also outperformes all potential overseas competitors.
Daiwa Alphas Specifications (103 model)
Gear Ratio: 5.8:1
Weight:6.6 ounces/187g
Line Retrieve Per Turn: 22inches/56cm
Line Capacity (lbs/yds, lbs/m): 12/100, 12/92
Max Drag: 5lb
Ball Bearings: 6
Roller Bearings: 1
Street Price (Japan): 23.000Yen/ ~200$
Further Reading
- Enthusiast Tackle Reel Review at TackleTour.com
- Enthusiast shootout, the Daiwa Alphas and Shimano Scorpion Mg duel for the supertuned crown at TackleTour.com
When it comes to baitcasting rods, brands like Megabass and Evergreen International may pop up, but unfortunately both manufacturers aren’t providing baitcasting gear that fits to hardbaits with weights from 1/4 to 3/4 ounces and that is also affordable for most people at the same time.
While browsing a few shop websites and consulting the list or related resources within my last post, I ended up with Olympic Fishing’s Graphiteleader Series (spec. overview). The GLVC-68 model comes along as a 1 and 2 pcs. version (GLVC-68M/GLVC-682M) and seems to fit perfectly the range of baits lurking inside my tackle boxes.
Graphiteleader GLVC-682M Specifications
Length (ft/m): 6′8” / 2.03
Power: Medium
Action: Regular
Weight (g): 121
Close (cm): 105
Section (pcs.): 2
Lure (oz): 1/4-3/4
Line (lb): 8-16
Street Price (Japan): 20.000Yen/ ~175$
Posted: September 22nd, 2008 at 6:31 am
Hello!
So how it all works?
Posted: September 22nd, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Hi Alex,
the GLVC-682M & Alphas combo worked out fine for me in the beginning as it was my first baitcasting combo. I used it mainly for fishing for perch and pike with Jigs and Jerk-baits from 10 to 15g and for these applications the rod served well.
If you consider to order more versatile (JDM) baitcasiting sticks in the mid-price segment, I would recommend Major Craft’s Arrival series. This line-up offers a wide spectrum of medium-light to heavy rods with quality components at still reasonable prices (available at some european stores…). Hope this helps…
Take care…
Christian
PS: What are you fishing for in Владивосток?
Posted: September 23rd, 2008 at 12:56 am
Thanks for information! It’s very helpful.
I see Major Craft’s Arrival series – it’s well. But problem that I need two piece rod…
Almost all top series from each manufacturer is only one piece :(
For now I choose from 2 piece rod`s: DAIKO DEC-622M, DAIKO GLC-662M, GraphiteLeader GLVC-682m, Majorcraft BNC-662M
In Vladivostok (Primorye state) (Primorye – translates like nearest sea) – it’s in Far East of Russia (near Japan, China, North Korea) major targets of fishing is different salmon species (in mountain rivers or sea) and pike. So I search JDM versatile (6`6`, fast or moderate) casting combo for medium (up to ¾ oz) size spoons, spinners and minnow`s (twitch). Because in many cases we fish in places were difficult to get and sometimes go far on foot through the forest - two piece rods is optimal for me. Jig we use very rarely.
(More pictures of the last rafting on the mountain river)
And I buy almost all my JDM tackle from bass.jp. You can see my photo (Alexandr Stalmakhovich) here.
Posted: September 23rd, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Hi again,
I just edited your comment and added two photos of the beautyful scenery (hope you don’t mind).
It looks like perfect conditions for flyfishing and spinning equipment to me, but if you are looking for a handy and portable casting rod - have a closer look at Major Craft’s Day’s Season DC-644M.
it’s a “medium action rod, boxed in a nifty and “travel worthy” case…” and should serve well for the applications you mentioned above. I own one myself and never regret buying this lightweight travel rod.
If you are interested in buying this one, just let me know. A friend of mine from Japan is running a tackle shop and would be glad to help.
Take care…
Christian
Posted: September 24th, 2008 at 7:56 am
Thanks for advice.
I Read tackletour review – good compact rod. I add it to my wish list for future.