Spent more money on a higher end combination spinning rod and reel for panfish. Here is the top shelf panfish rod and reel combo - Shimano Vanford 1000 paired up with a 6' St. Croix Premier Light action (fast) rod.
Great reel have two 2500/2500HG but combine them with Zodias 5-12g/7-21g. Vanford, Best Bang for the Buck and high quality so I’ll get the new enhanced version arriving in stores this autumn. (Great intro 🤘)
I have the same rod and reel set up but in a different size and different length and power. I have the 500 size Vanford and 5ft UL Mod action Premier rod from St Croix for pan fishing. The reel itself is micro compared to my 2500HG Vanford I use for bass fishing. I mean, micro. Though I’ve had a blast with the Premier I just ordered a 6’9 UL fast action Avid series panfish rod. I wasn’t getting the distance I wanted with the Premier and wasn’t available in a fast action. The Avid goes for $200 (which is steep) but nonetheless willing to try a higher end rod with a crisp hook set and more sensitive feel when I get even the smallest bite. Anyhow, You won’t regret your setup and hope you catch many fish!
How do you like the rod so far? I’ve been using the same one as my all-around, all-species rod. Paired with a Daiwa Fuego LT and 6lb. Sufix Seige, it’ll catch bass, panfish, and river fish like catfish or sheephead and everything feels like a monster.
Awesome choice on your set up. I really like it. I like the Premiere over the Panfish series rods. I'm not much of a fan of the guides on the panfish rods from St. Croix.
I agree on the guides, I have a strong preference for the aluminum oxide or silicon carbide guides, they’re corrosion proof and extremely smooth, so the line won’t get damaged. Personally I don’t trust the all-steel ones, though I do like the Panfish/Trout series Rod I have besides that guide issue.
So far, I feel it's a bit over priced for the amount of plastic. I do love the lightness and the super smooth drag. I toss 2 pound mono on this and have caught some serious drag pullers on it already.
i just pressed the button on the 6' premier light. midway usa has and awesome deal where you get a $75 free gift card when you order a st croix premier. I also bought a 6'10 med light st croix victory and got an additional 75$ gift certificate.
