New senko rod. DX703C, Z-Bone LE3 7' or BCR853 GLX

[muskyhunter]

Looking at a new senko rod. I've narrowed it down to three rods.

1. Dobyns Extreme DX703C
2. Kistler Z-Bone LE3MH 7'
3. G Loomis BCR853 GLX

I've handled all three and i like the Z-bone and DX the most. With regards to price i can buy both for about the same price. Which one would you guys recommend?

[quantum angler nt]

what weights are you fishing?

[muskyhunter]

Weightless senko and jigs from 1/4-3/4 max.

[civicrr]

I'm guessing you're talking about the 'standard' senko - 5". I've only fished two of the three rods: DX703 & BCR853. Between those two, I prefer the DX703. The weight of the 5" senko perfectly loads the rod on the cast. Great sensitivity to detect the lightest bites.

Even though the BCR853 has a big following, I didn't like how if felt casting. I attribute that to the xfast action. On the other hand, that xfast action does get you into the power of the stick quickly. I think that is why many people like them. If I wanted a GLoomis for senkos in 7', I'd probably get a MBR843. I really have great memories fishing that stick.

The Z-Bone (North Fork blank) seems to get really good reviews from users on here.

I'll throw one more stick into the mix since you're already considering a Dobyns: DX743. IMO, it is the perfect senko stick. I'm not exactly sure why I like it better than the DX703 but I do. At 7'4", it is longer than the sticks you listed. Like the DX703, it loads perfectly on the cast. The extra length gives you just that little extra to really bomb casts out there. I also like the longer length for pitching to open spots in cover better. Skips the baits well. If you were in really tight quarters, I could see liking 7' better. Hasn't been an issue for me. The rod just feels 'right' when fishing senkos.

[mike464]

Kistler Z-Bone LE3MH 7'
I have 2 of these, by far they are my favorite rods for tossing a weightless senko. Great light jig rod as well. Mike

[njbasscat]

Both are great rods. I use a DX743C for senkos and think it is perfect. I don't have a Zbone in 3 power to compare it too but judging from my heavy 5 power Zbone, I think the Zbone would be great as well. The Zbone is a touch more sensative but the Dobyns is balanced better. I probably didn't help you out much but I think you can't go wrong with either.

[muskyhunter]

i guess i'll see which one i can get a better deal on.

[civicrr]

i guess i'll see which one i can get a better deal on.

Some people consider the warranty (materials & manufacturing defects) & service programs (e.g. no fault replacement for a fee) when they purchase rods. If you're one of them, I'd check out both companies programs as they differ.

BTW, the last Dobyns I bought came with the Kigan 3D Z series guide. They are Kigan's version of the no tangle guide.

[muskyhunter]

The dX743 Is very intriguing. Wish the local shop has the rod Instock to test. Being in Canada sucks, all rods are special order.

[Fishing4Fun]

I have fished the 703dx as weightless bait rod and while I thought it was solid I didn't like the tip as much. The 743 is your best choice for moderate to heavy cover. If you throw some 4 inch baits on there or lures that don't weigh as much the 742 dx is good in sparse/limited cover.

I know it wasn't on your list but the Phenix Recon 714 fast action is my favorite standard senko, fluke, and caffeine shad rod. Also much cheaper. Rod loads nice and has plenty of reserve power. It is quite sensitive and light.

I prefer the 703 dx for smaller jigs and smallies beavers. I would opt for the 743 dx if price isn't a turnoff but the recon 714 would be the choice at the lower price point.

[zodiak311]

I will only comment on what I have used. I have a DX703, 743, and 744, that I have used from one time or another for Senkos. For 5" Senkos I use the DX703 paired with a pixy, and the DX743 I have paired with an alpha. My 744 is paired with a zillion, which I use for 7" Senkos (about 1oz), and it is my favorite combo.
If I had to choose between the 703 or 743 for your application, I would go with the 743, extra length and more leverage. What reel are you planning to use for the combo?
Dobyns has EXCELLENT customer service, I call the guys fairly often, and always end up talking to Gary or Richard, who are always eager to help in any way they can.

[zodiak311]

i guess i'll see which one i can get a better deal on.

Some people consider the warranty (materials & manufacturing defects) & service programs (e.g. no fault replacement for a fee) when they purchase rods. If you're one of them, I'd check out both companies programs as they differ.

BTW, the last Dobyns I bought came with the Kigan 3D Z series guide. They are Kigan's version of the no tangle guide.

Was it a Champion or DX?

[civicrr]

i guess i'll see which one i can get a better deal on.

Some people consider the warranty (materials & manufacturing defects) & service programs (e.g. no fault replacement for a fee) when they purchase rods. If you're one of them, I'd check out both companies programs as they differ.

BTW, the last Dobyns I bought came with the Kigan 3D Z series guide. They are Kigan's version of the no tangle guide.

Was it a Champion or DX?

Champion 765CB. Remember that this is a brand new model. I'm guessing that the guides are what are being wrapped on the Champions & most likely the Champion Extreme (DX) being produced now. I'm also guessing that this is a running change. In other words, there might be some current stock rods that still have the older guides.

[fishingandfords]

you will love the DX743

[DavidSA]

Senko's feel more natural to throw on the 703. At that weight the BCR853 does hae a funky cast characteristic. Normally I fish senko's on the MBR843 or 844 GLX. Not as sensitive as the BCR but feels more natural on the cast.