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Rod Review


 

The Stick To Go With That Bait : SPRO's KGB Signature Series B79H Keeps it In the Family

 

Date: 12/11/23
Tackle Type: Rod
Manufacturer: SPRO & KGB Collab
Reviewer: Cal






Total Score: 7.58 - GOOD

Introduction:
One of the largest obstacles for any angler looking to take the step into the deep, dark world of throwing swimbaits is rod selection. You can get by with an undersized reel, and finding a fishing line that's stout enough isn't that tough of a decision. It's the fishing rod, really the key component in every bass fishing technique, that requires special consideration. Searching for a stick to fish the new SPRO and KGB Swimbaits collab bait, the Chad Shad 180? Well, the two manufacturers do their best to eliminate this challenge with another joint venture. Here's a look at their complimentary collab fishing rod, the SPRO KGB Signature Series B79H.

 

SPRO KGB Signature Series Casting Rod (B79H) Specifications

Material 40-ton Carbon Fiber
Length 7'-9"
Line Wt. 12-20lb
Lure Wt. 1/2-3oz
Pieces One
Guides 7+tip (Fuji SS/Alconite)
Rear Handle Length 15.75"
Power Rating Heavy
Taper Mod-Fast
Rod Weight 5.7oz
Origin Made in USA
MSRP $279.99


Introducing SPRO's KGB Signature Series B79H

Impressions: Just like the original resin version of their popular Chad Shad, KGB Swimbaits actually builds and sells swimbait rods. However the spec's on their KGB branded sticks are different than the SPRO KGB Signature Series Casting Rod. While KGB's original sticks are both heavy duty, seven foot, eleven (7'-11") builds with more well rounded capabilities, the B79H is a seven foot nine inch (7'-9") stick spec'd out perfectly to handle the Chad Shad 180.

 


Built here in the States

 

The max lure rating on this stick is only up to three ounces (3oz), but that's just right for the two and a half ounce (2.5oz) Chad Shad 180. The 7'-9" length is easier to handle (and stow) than 7'-11" but the rod is still rated as a heavy powered stick. The taper, though not specified, is an ideal moderate-fast taper and guides are name brand Fuji, with stainless steel frames and alconite inserts. The overall build is simple and all about functionality.


Testing versatility with a "Donkey Slayer" giant bladed jig (3/4oz.). This garage built blade blends custom bait craftsmanship with bladed jig design

Real World Tests: I paired my B79H with Spro's Vortex-E casting reel in 7.3:1. How could I use a 100 sized reel for tossing a glide bait? By spooling it with braid and using a fluorocarbon leader of course - in this case specifically Sunline's FX2 braid in 50lb topped with a leader of 18lb Sunline Shooter.


The B79H's blank is sanded

Casting: Other than actual performance under load, the most important aspect of any fishing rod built for big baits is the length of that rear handle. I'm talking actual handle length from the back of the reel seat to the end of the rod. For comfortable, two handed casting with big baits, this measurement, at bare minimum, needs to be fourteen inches (14").


Guides are Fuji SS/Alconite

Fifteen inches (15") or more is ideal with lengths over eighteen inches (18") a bit excessive. The B79H's rear handle length measured at fifteen and three quarters of an inch (15.75") and is just about ideal for casting baits in its rated range. The B79H loads predictably and reliably on the cast and handles the Chad Shad 180 as if it were made for that bait - oh wait.

Next Section: Sensitivity and Power

 

   

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