On those rare days when you aren't bass fishing, have you ever watched the tournament golfers - with their matched sets of golf clubs? While they're all somewhat different, each club has a similar "feel" to the golf pro.
The same applies to fishing tackle. If you have an XYZ 6'6" rod and a PDQ 6'6" rod, they usually have a different "feel" to them. Similar reels from different manufacturers DO feel different in size, shape, and mechanical "feel." The best way to maintain consistency is to find a rod and reel manufacturer and stick with them, purchasing specific outfits as needed (and finances allow).
If you look in the rod locker of my Ranger 518DVX, you will find two brands: CastAway Graphite Rods and Quantum Energy reels. Having tried several different rods and reels, I have found that these work the best for me. But, the important thing is that they have a similar "feel." When I pick up my trigger-handled spinnerbait outfit, there isn't any noticeable difference in how it feels in my hand or whether it has a more "mechanical" feeling than any other outfit in my rod locker.
There are so many variables in bass fishing already... minimizing the mechanical feel of your equipment will put you farther ahead of the game.
Jeff Morton is a tournament angler who fishes the Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League Great Lakes Division and the Northland Bass Northern Wisconsin Team Circuit. He is a 2 Time B.A.S.S. Illinois State Championship Qualifier won the Northern Illinois Make A Wish Charity Bass Tournament.
Jeff proudly represents Ranger Boats, Bedford Sales, CastAway Graphite Rods, Bill Stasek Chevrolet, Maui Jim Sunglasses, and Just Hank's Custom Embroidery and Digitizing.
