Casting: The single biggest challenge for any BFS setup is whether or not the combo will allow you to present your bait. Fortunately, we already know the Scorpion BFS is up to the challenge so how would this newly found and affordable stick perform? Matched with a drop shot weight right down to the lower limit of the rod's rating of one sixteenth ounce (1/16oz), I found the T47C-370BCF quite capable of casting my drop shot rig. Naturally, with a worm and hook also tied onto the line, the entire weight of my offering was more than 1/16oz, but just the same, this stick can really handle the light stuff.

Ratings on this stick resemble that of a spinning rod.

Sensitivity: So the other question that comes to mind, once the cast is made, is whether or not you can feel anything at the end of the line. This is, after all, a more value driven rod than what my Scorpion BFS is used to being paired with. While not as sensitive as my Phenix TX-713C K2 casting rod, I am happy to report that the T47C-370BCF performs well in this category too and actually a little better than I'd expect for a rod in this price range.

Fig 1 : The chart above illustrates the deflection characteristics of our Doomsday T47C-370BCF against a couple of medium powered rods we use as our benchmarks.

Power: But even with all of positive check marks in our tests above, what I actually like best about this stick is its taper. It's rated with a standard, fast taper, but the tip on this stick is perfectly suited for fishing techniques like a drop shot where the ideal scenario is to simply lift the tip of your rod once you feel a bite rather than swinging for the fences to set the hook.

With BFS sticks, it's all about that tip.

The T47C-370BCF has a very soft tip that transitions to a very good backbone about a quarter of the way down the length of the rod. It is a smooth power curve and inspires confidence when you have fish at the end of the line.

A closer look at the throwback thread wrap design.

Design & Ergonomics: Those who have a soft spot for replica memorabilia will appreciate the design motif of Doomsday Tackle's The 47 rod series. Those who do not may find the sticks rather odd. I for one enjoy the retro feel. Ergonomically, the T47C-370BCF weighs in at four point eight ounces (4.8oz) with a balance point about eight inches up from the midline of the reel seat. Bottom line? This stick is a bit tip heavy. For those who fish finesse techniques with the tip down, this will not be an issue. For those who prefer a balanced stick above all else, it will. At $140 MSRP, I can forgive the uneven weight distribution.

Little styling cues like the metal winding check just to add color between the grip and reel seat gives the series a higher end feel.

Price & Applications: As mentioned just above, the T47C-370BCF retails for a mere $140. It is surprising how some manufacturers continue to produce very fishable sticks at such value driven prices these days. This stick in particular even features Alconite guides rather than something made with lower grade materials and the cork seems to be of very good quality as well.

Sticks like the T47C-370BCF are making BFS more and more accessible.

Conclusion: The bait finesse movement is real. More and more anglers are discovering the trouble free fishing experience of presenting finesse baits with casting gear and liking it. While the barrier to entry is a bit steep on the reel side, rods like the T47C-370BCF are making it easier and easier for anglers to take that first step. As for Doomsday Tackle Company's debut in the rod market, we do have a couple other sticks from this same series that we're anxious to introduce to you. For now, the T47C-370BCF easily wins our Best Value Award!

Looking for a Doomsday T47C-370BCF?

Try Doomsday Tackle Co's Website