So, I'm seriously looking at buying one of these finally. I've never had a Loomis rod before and I figured I might as well go with the top of the line from their offerings. I've done some research but I'm not positive on which rod would be the rod for me. As with all my rods, I'm looking for versatility as I don't have a large aresnal. I will use this rod for feel/bottom contact techniques. I want something that can primarily throw 1/4oz - 1/2oz t-rigs and jigs and weightless senko's/flukes. I'll most likely be putting a Core 51mg7 on the rod. I've read that the 893 is THE rod for weightless senko's and soft jerkbatis, but it seems people usually step it up to the 4 power when throwing 1/2oz jigs. I will stay on the lighter side of the range I mentioned (mostly weightless plastics and a lot of 1/4oz t-rigs), but definitely want something that can handle up to a 1/2oz jig + trailer. I won't be fishing anything incredibly deep, nor will I be throwing into any heavy vegetation. I will, however, expect to be casting around lay downs, light - moderate grass, rocks, stumps, etc. I'm mostly interested in the 7'1 and the 7'5 lengths. Thank you for any help in advance.
If I was you I wouldn't start with a nrx id start with an imx. Just to check out lommis.
On 2/18/2015 at 12:27 PM, Arv said:So, I'm seriously looking at buying one of these finally. I've never had a Loomis rod before and I figured I might as well go with the top of the line from their offerings. I've done some research but I'm not positive on which rod would be the rod for me. As with all my rods, I'm looking for versatility as I don't have a large aresnal. I will use this rod for feel/bottom contact techniques. I want something that can primarily throw 1/4oz - 1/2oz t-rigs and jigs and weightless senko's/flukes. I'll most likely be putting a Core 51mg7 on the rod. I've read that the 893 is THE rod for weightless senko's and soft jerkbatis, but it seems people usually step it up to the 4 power when throwing 1/2oz jigs. I will stay on the lighter side of the range I mentioned (mostly weightless plastics and a lot of 1/4oz t-rigs), but definitely want something that can handle up to a 1/2oz jig + trailer. I won't be fishing anything incredibly deep, nor will I be throwing into any heavy vegetation. I will, however, expect to be casting around lay downs, light - moderate grass, rocks, stumps, etc. I'm mostly interested in the 7'1 and the 7'5 lengths. Thank you for any help in advance.
I haven't pulled the trigger yet for a NRX, but the one that gets all the rave and the most OMGZ is awesome is the 893C. This is the one everyone says. When I finally pull a trigger on a NRX this will be it.
FYI - I own a GLX 853C, it can handle up to 1/2 oz without a problem. So I would think the 893C wouldn't have an issue either.
I appreciate your word of caution, but I'm quite certain I know what I want. I know the imx is a fine rod, but I am interested in the higher end rods.On 2/18/2015 at 12:31 PM, fisherrw said:If I was you I wouldn't start with a nrx id start with an imx. Just to check out lommis.
If I was going to fork out that kind of dough, I'd go custom with North Fork Composites HM. Gary Loomis actually designed the blanks. I'm not really sure if he designed the NRX. I know that GLoomis sold out to Shimano back in 97. Maybe someone else can chime in on this. I know that Gloomis still manufactures out of the same place, but I don't know if Shimano has taken his designs into their own hands.
On 2/18/2015 at 12:31 PM, fisherrw said:If I was you I wouldn't start with a nrx id start with an imx. Just to check out lommis.
The NRX is a elite stick, most fisherman are well aware of this.. It's no secret. The bit older model of IMX, is a very good rod, but doesn't compare to the Nrx.
On 2/18/2015 at 12:44 PM, Alonerankin2 said:The NRX is a elite stick, most fisherman are well aware of this.. It's no secret. The bit older model of IMX, is a very good rod, but doesn't compare to the Nrx.
x2
And this is the one everyone says G Loomis stands out.
The 893 is definitely the rod you want. The 873 would work for everything though it isnt a great weightless plastic rod. The 894 is a beast (think Dobyns DX 745 as I belive you fish these?) and the 895 is more of really heavy jig or punch rod. I would personally guide you towards the 893. That rod maxes out with a 1/2 oz jig plus trailer so you should be within its limits. Its sweet spot is certainly 3/8 oz +/-
Hootie fishes a couple Nrx rods, can't remember which models though... Maybe he will see this and comment, or shoot him a PM. I know he raved about them, about like most owners!
FYI - THUT has a trade in event happening now. You can trade in your rods and get 60% retail value towards a NRX, which can take a decent chunk off retail, plus I think you can trade in as many rods as you want.
I've handled a few rods, my buddy absolutely swears by them and has three of them he uses when we go out to cover everything he needs since he never uses swim baits, or heavy jigs. I've borrowed his from time to time, when we went fishing and I didn't have time to pickup my stuff from my house. I will tell you, they are extremely versatile and light weight. I'll watch him throw spinners with the same rod he's throwing worms with a small split shot, then turn around and throw the worm weightless next to a dock. Here is my argument against them. Having used St Croix Legend Tournament Bass rods, and Dobyns Extreme tournaments with an MSRP between 280-330 they are fantastic rods and compare well with the G Loomis. They do all of the same stuff, they are versatile and they have several different models to choose from that you can again, take three rods out and cover every type of fishing you're going to do for an entire day. They're light weight, and weigh in the same ball park as the NRX does. Is the extra 200$+/- dollar the "branding" power of G Loomis? That little bit of weight difference isn't going to matter much, as far as durability goes they rank right at the same. Customer service, they're right there with each other. Don't get me wrong, I love the G Loomis rods, if I could have any rod without money being an issue I would be building my next setup around a G Loomis NRX without a shadow of a doubt, but in the real world I have kids, a wife and bills to pay. So I have a difficult time justify the cost. Especially when I can get high quality St Croix, and Dobyns products with a reel on them for the same price as the NRX rod itself. Again it's all opinion, and I can't say it enough times I am not trying to say this rod isn't worth it. I'm just trying to level the playing field.
Arv, I will try to answer your question based on what you say you want. Not economics, not how many kids you have or how big your mortgage is....lol. So you want an NRX. Great choice. 893 or 894. Since you are leaning towards the light end of the weights, I would go with the 893 that you really want. It will handle those half ounce jigs just fine. I have the 3's and the 4's and I can tell you that there is not a dramatic difference. It's more of an either or situation. Get that NRX and ENJOY!
Hootie
Then its blue or green.
I fish both the 853 and 894, Personally although the 893 gets talked up more I dont care for the extra length. I pitch jigs in boat stalls and and around lifts a lot and I find the 7ft.5 cumbersome and I just like the way the 7ft 1 handles. Really depends on how and where you fish.
The 3 power works fine for 1/2oz and a trailer but thats as heavy as I would go. I've always found the 3 power to be quicker than the 4 in general. If you want to throw senkos and flukes I would stay with the 3 power...
Give the guys at American Legacy a call and see what they can do for you...
On 2/18/2015 at 7:30 PM, rangerjockey said:I fish both the 853 and 894, Personally although the 893 gets talked up more I dont care for the extra length. I pitch jigs in boat stalls and and around lifts a lot and I find the 7ft.5 cumbersome and I just like the way the 7ft 1 handles. Really depends on how and where you fish.
The 3 power works fine for 1/2oz and a trailer but thats as heavy as I would go. I've always found the 3 power to be quicker than the 4 in general. If you want to throw senkos and flukes I would stay with the 3 power...
Give the guys at American Legacy a call and see what they can do for you...
American Legacy, good place. Most of my stuff comes from them. They also have a very generous trade in program
that could save you some bucks, if you have some stuff that you no longer use.
Hootie
On 2/18/2015 at 7:18 PM, Diggy said:Then its blue or green.
Yes it is?
Hootie
On 2/18/2015 at 7:18 PM, Diggy said:Then its blue or green.
BLUE!!!
On 2/18/2015 at 7:36 PM, Hi Salenity said:BLUE!!!
I have the green. Heard there were some problems with the handles on the blue ones, so I passed.
Can't confirm the problems, just didn't want to take the chance.
Hootie
On 2/18/2015 at 4:04 PM, Fishinthefish said:Is the extra 200$+/- dollar the "branding" power of Gary Loomis?
Gary Loomis has NO affiliation with Shimano/ G. Loomis
On 2/18/2015 at 7:56 PM, roadwarrior said:Gary Loomis has NO affiliation with Shimano/ G. Loomis
I'm sorry I'll edit my post, G auto corrected to Gary.
On 2/18/2015 at 7:40 PM, *Hootie said:I have the green. Heard there were some problems with the handles on the blue ones, so I passed.
Can't confirm the problems, just didn't want to take the chance.
Hootie
I think the Blue is a hideously ugly rod but it doesn't have a finish on the blank so it should be more sensitive...
Lol, I think the blue is prettier. But blue is also my favorite color.
The 893JWR will work with 1/2 oz jigs, but I liked it better for upto 3/8 oz jigs. I'd also look into the 873CRR, apparently it fishes half a power heavier (second hand info).
I have the 893C adn am a huge T-Rig fan and use it for that as well as 1/4 & primarily 3/8oz jigs. I haven't throw 1/2oz so I can't comment on that, but to me that might be pushing the upper range. I got it later in the season last year so I haven't had too much time with it but it's a heck of a stick. I don't mind/notice the extra length but it is something to consider. I've also used it for weightless senkos and Ikas and it preformed great. I can't speak on flukes/soft jerks but see no problems.
Mine is paired with a Core 50 and it is a sweet combo. The rod really is on another level and whatever one you choose I know you will be happy.
Matt
The little bit I've messed with the 873crr it felt tighter than my 894... I would say more like a 4 1/2 power..But a lot of folks like it for heavier jigs,t-rigs ect...
On 2/18/2015 at 12:27 PM, Arv said:So, I'm seriously looking at buying one of these finally. I've never had a Loomis rod before and I figured I might as well go with the top of the line from their offerings. I've done some research but I'm not positive on which rod would be the rod for me. As with all my rods, I'm looking for versatility as I don't have a large aresnal. I will use this rod for feel/bottom contact techniques. I want something that can primarily throw 1/4oz - 1/2oz t-rigs and jigs and weightless senko's/flukes. I'll most likely be putting a Core 51mg7 on the rod. I've read that the 893 is THE rod for weightless senko's and soft jerkbatis, but it seems people usually step it up to the 4 power when throwing 1/2oz jigs. I will stay on the lighter side of the range I mentioned (mostly weightless plastics and a lot of 1/4oz t-rigs), but definitely want something that can handle up to a 1/2oz jig + trailer. I won't be fishing anything incredibly deep, nor will I be throwing into any heavy vegetation. I will, however, expect to be casting around lay downs, light - moderate grass, rocks, stumps, etc. I'm mostly interested in the 7'1 and the 7'5 lengths. Thank you for any help in advance.
Well I will go against the grain taking into consideration what you want to do with the your potential NRX. I would recommend the 803, now granted it is a 6'8" rod but it will handle your needs with no problems. In fact I even find myself using the 802 more and more over the 803 when fishing within your needs.....This little sucker was caught on a weightless senko using the 802 with plenty of backbone to get it landed.......
Hmmm...I have to be honest, I'm surprised no one directed you to the NRX 843 MBR. I know your range was 7'1" to 7'5", but if you are looking for a very diverse rod, then the 843 MBR seems to handle a lot of techniques well. With that being said, any NRX you choose will be the right decision.
I finally pulled the trigger on one...what made my decision easier was getting $180 off by trading in one of my old rods I would never use again.
The details on the offer are here...http://www.thehookuptackle.com/gloomisb.php
On 2/18/2015 at 8:16 PM, Hi Salenity said:I think the Blue is a hideously ugly rod but it doesn't have a finish on the blank so it should be more sensitive...
I ordered the green but it came broken and opted for the blue after seeing the green. Based on the amount Ive fished it, I should have opted on saving my money =(
On 2/18/2015 at 10:53 PM, Goose52 said:
I've seen this pairing before! I personally like the green rod more and it would be awesome go get my hands on a green 51 shimano, as opposed to the white, grey, black, and gold 51's that I have right now... haha.
On 2/18/2015 at 11:08 PM, Arv said:I've seen this pairing before! I personally like the green rod more and it would be awesome go get my hands on a green 51 shimano, as opposed to the white, grey, black, and gold 51's that I have right now... haha.
I did that pairing twice - on the 893C and on a 852C - it's an attractive color combo. These photos of the 893C are actually older file photos. The 893C now has a Met XG on it...
I have the 802C & the 804C. I have used the 804C for jigs 1/2 to 1oz and it does the job. I have also used it for 1/2 & 3/4 oz spinner baits, 4-6" plastic swim baits and topwater. It performs well for many applications. I think you would be happy with a 4 weight in the 854c or 894C if you want a 7-1" or 7-5" rod. The 4 weight handles the 3 weight jobs nicely but gives you a little extra margin when you truly need the 4 weight. LuckyCraft's suggestion about the MBR rods being very versatile is spot on.
On 2/18/2015 at 11:23 PM, Dwight Hottle said:I have the 802C & the 804C. I have used the 804C for jigs 1/2 to 1oz and it does the job. I have also used it for 1/2 & 3/4 oz spinner baits, 4-6" plastic swim baits and topwater. It performs well for many applications. I think you would be happy with a 4 weight in the 854c or 894C if you want a 7-1" or 7-5" rod. The 4 weight handles the 3 weight jobs nicely but gives you a little extra margin when you truly need the 4 weight. LuckyCraft's suggestion about the MBR rods being very versatile is spot on.
What is the difference between the JWR and the MBR in the Loomis line up? If that's too general a question, would you be able to at least give the difference between the 843MBR and the 853JWR? Thanks!
Thanks for starting this thread. I'm considering a similar NRX purchase in the future for the same uses and have started researching. Someone brought up the 873 which had popped up on my radar as well as the two rods you're considering. Great thread and thanks to everyone for their input.
On 2/18/2015 at 11:56 PM, Arv said:What is the difference between the JWR and the MBR in the Loomis line up? If that's too general a question, would you be able to at least give the difference between the 843MBR and the 853JWR? Thanks!
I'll try and answer this for Dwight, because he has a lot of preparing to do for this upcoming Spring Smallmouth Extravaganza he is going to put a whoop down on.
I have both the 853C JWR and the 843 MBR. The 843 MBR is a fast action rod (as opposed to the extra-fast action of the 853C JWR). This slightly slower action seems to open to door to techniques like crankbaits, jerkbaits, topwater and other treble hook style lures (as a side note, there are a lot of guys who like an extra-fast action rod for jerkbaits & topwater, but I am not one of them). Also, the action and power of the 843C MBR is just perfect for Spinnerbaits. As for the 853C JWR (and other in the JWR series), these are really geared towards jigs and plastics. That extra-fast action really allows for working those bottom contact baits and the little more stout blank of the 853C is good for pulling fish through any type of light cover. With that being said, if you fish plastics & jigs like 90% of the time, then I would be looking into the JWR line-up as it will fish other techniques. If you want just one rod to really handle a lot of situations, then the 843C MBR would be my choice.
As a Disclaimer, NRX rods are very addicting and you may say you just want one, but you will never be able to limit yourself. You will feel the comfort and sensitivity of that 853C JWR or 843C MBR or whatever you choose and say, "Maybe I'll just get one NRX finesse set-up?" With that you'll get the NRX 852S JWR. Then you'll say, "You know, there is some heavy cover I really want to get that frog through or a punching rig in," and you'll end up with the NRX 895C JWR or NRX 916C UBR. Then you'll say, "I really want a NRX jerkbait rod," and realized they don't make one, so you go and buy a NRX 843C MBR and take it to a professional rodmaker to modify it to get the action you want. It's just a never ending sickness. I just want to warn you before you get into that "gateway" NRX rod. Good luck in your search.
On 2/19/2015 at 12:31 AM, Lucky Craft Man said:I'll try and answer this for Dwight, because he has a lot of preparing to do for this upcoming Spring Smallmouth Extravaganza he is going to put a whoop down on. I have both the 853C JWR and the 843 MBR. The 843 MBR is a fast action rod (as opposed to the extra-fast action of the 853C JWR). This slightly slower action seems to open to door to techniques like crankbaits, jerkbaits, topwater and other treble hook style lures (as a side note, there are a lot of guys who like an extra-fast action rod for jerkbaits & topwater, but I am not one of them). Also, the action and power of the 843C MBR is just perfect for Spinnerbaits. As for the 853C JWR (and other in the JWR series), these are really geared towards jigs and plastics. That extra-fast action really allows for working those bottom contact baits and the little more stout blank of the 853C is good for pulling fish through any type of light cover. With that being said, if you fish plastics & jigs like 90% of the time, then I would be looking into the JWR line-up as it will fish other techniques. If you want just one rod to really handle a lot of situations, then the 843C MBR would be my choice.
As a Disclaimer, NRX rods are very addicting and you may say you just want one, but you will never be able to limit yourself. You will feel the comfort and sensitivity of that 853C JWR or 843C MBR or whatever you choose and say, "Maybe I'll just get one NRX finesse set-up?" With that you'll get the NRX 852S JWR. Then you'll say, "You know, there is some heavy cover I really way to get that frog through or punching rig in," and you'll end up with the NRX 895C JWR or NRX 916C UBR. Then you'll say, "I really want a NRX jerkbait rod," and realized they don't make one, so you go and buy a NRX 843C MBR and take it to a professional rodmaker to modify it to get the action you want. It's just a never ending sickness. I just want to warn you before you get into that "gateway" NRX rod. Good luck in your search.
Such is fishing I suppose. Or at least fishing gear, haha. Thank you very much for your response though. Since I do fish plastics closer to 90% of the time, and I have other rods to handle spinners and trebles, I think I'm going to continue leaning towards the JWR.
Thanks Steve. Lucky Craft Man has 12 NRX counting the new one on its way to him. I think he qualifies as an expert on the NRX line.
On 2/19/2015 at 12:41 AM, Dwight Hottle said:Thanks Steve. Lucky Craft Man has 12 NRX counting the new one on its way to him. I think he qualifies as an expert on the NRX line.
Haha...I don't know about being an expert, but what I do know is I can't wait for that new one to come in. I hope Scott is ready, because it will be going directly to him for a trim and some weight addition. Thanks for the recommendation on that one, Dwight, because I think it will certainly fit the purpose with which it will be used.
If you can handle it make sure you do so.
I bought a Dobyns DX 744 and 745 based on all the amazing reviews on the web. I was stupid and bought them without every handling them. I was VERY underwhelmed with them and they are no longer in my possession.
That said, with the trade in going on @ the hook up, you could probably get one for a great deal, and if you don't like it they certainly aren't hard to move.
On 2/19/2015 at 12:38 AM, Arv said:Such is fishing I suppose. Or at least fishing gear, haha. Thank you very much for your response though. Since I do fish plastics closer to 90% of the time, and I have other rods to handle spinners and trebles, I think I'm going to continue leaning towards the JWR.
Y'know, if plastics are your go-to, I just decided to sell my 852c JWR/ 51e combo. That right there is probably one of the best light plastics casting combos out there. Also buying used you lose a lot of the financial sting. It even has a wildcard. Just sayin!
It's also worth nothing that these rods underclaim bigtime on their weight ratings. The 1/8-3/8 rating on the 852 is pretty much a joke. They can handle a good 1/8th more than they claim, easy. Their performance window is definitely larger than claimed. Warranty hedging? Who knows.
http://www.americanlegacyfishing.com/
These guys do the rod trade in year around, plus 10% this time of year... If you have a rod to trade in. They are the largest GLoomis dealer in the country. I would check out all company's suggested for the "Best Deal"
On 2/19/2015 at 1:00 AM, Master Bait said:Y'know, if plastics are your go-to, I just decided to sell my 852c JWR/ 51e combo. That right there is probably one of the best light plastics casting combos out there. Also buying used you lose a lot of the financial sting. It even has a wildcard. Just sayin!
It's also worth nothing that these rods underclaim bigtime on their weight ratings. The 1/8-3/8 rating on the 852 is pretty much a joke. They can handle a good 1/8th more than they claim, easy. Their performance window is definitely larger than claimed. Warranty hedging? Who knows.
AH! I know! I just saw it not too long ago. My only concern is that it will overlap too much with my DX 742c. I love the 742 for light plastics and it's certainly capable of handling weightless plastics. With my Aldebaran BFS on it I can chuck things like weightless trick worms with ease. I'm looking for something with a little more meat to it for when I'm out in the yak around wood and stuff like that.
On 2/19/2015 at 1:09 AM, Arv said:AH! I know! I just saw it not too long ago. My only concern is that it will overlap too much with my DX 742c. I love the 742 for light plastics and it's certainly capable of handling weightless plastics. With my Aldebaran BFS on it I can chuck things like weightless trick worms with ease. I'm looking for something with a little more meat to it for when I'm out in the yak around wood and stuff like that.
If I were you I'd sell the DX. NRX + baran = oh lawd!
I'm still not 100% that I can even let it go yet. I just saw it on lunch break and am havin some serious second thoughts.
This won't help you at all because I haven't fished it yet (D@#M WINTER!!) and nobody in my house understands why I'm so excited, but you guys will!! A month ago I bought an NRX 893C Blue. I got it as a demo rod/rep sample, but it was brand new still in the plastic when it arrived. Can't wait to fish it.
I just got bit by the NRX bug as well. Picked up an 893 and 803 from The Tackle Trap as rep samples. Gary is awesome to deal with and the prices are great.
Anyway, Gary tried to talk me into an 894 for my primary jig rod but I was a bit worried that it would be too heavy for where I fish. The cover here isn't as crazy as down south so I opted for the 893. He said it would handle the 1/2oz jig with trailer just fine plus I mainly fish 3/8.
I got the 803 for a close quarters dock shipping rod for finesse jigs and light T-rigs. Upon getting both of these rods just by looking at them the 893 is significantly thicker than the 803. Gary said the 893 fishes almost like a 3 1/2 power. I have not got to try either out but just going by looks I could see that being true.
The only concern I would have with these rods is the balance. They are so light and with a lighter reel they can be tip heavy depending on the model. My 893 has a Metanium on it and it is ok. An 894 would need a reel in the 7oz range I'd imagine. I am anxious to fish these rods and want to see if they live up to the hype. I switched from the Dobyns DX line so time will tell.