Why BFS Fishing Actually Works (And Why We Build Rods For It)
If you've been fishing for a while, you've probably noticed more people talking about BFS fishing lately. Bait Finesse System isn't some complicated new technique - it's just using baitcasting gear to throw really light lures that you'd normally need spinning gear for.
The whole thing started in Japan where they fish small streams and really pressured water. Those guys figured out how to modify baitcasters to throw tiny lures with way more accuracy than you get with spinning reels. No line twist, better control, and you can put that lure exactly where you want it.
Now it's catching on here because our lakes are getting more pressured too. Bass have seen every spinnerbait and chatterbait in the tackle shop. But a 1/16 oz jig placed perfectly with BFS gear? That's still working.
Why BFS Makes Sense
More Pressure, Smaller Baits
Let's be honest - there are more people fishing than ever. Bass aren't stupid. They've learned to avoid the obvious stuff. But they still have to eat, and finesse presentations still fool them.
Forward-Facing Sonar Changed Everything
With modern electronics, you can actually see the fish. When you know exactly where they are, BFS gives you the precision to put your bait right on their nose without spooking them.
Some Guys Just Prefer Baitcasters
Plenty of bass fishermen grew up throwing baitcasters and that's what feels natural. BFS lets you fish finesse without switching to spinning gear.
Our BFS Rod Lineup: Something For Every Budget
We started OLD 18 because we wanted to build rods that actually work. I'm a Navy SEAL, my partner is a master rod builder with almost 30 years of experience. We know what good gear feels like, and we know what falls apart when you need it most.
Here's our BFS lineup, from budget-friendly to no-compromise:
Kinetic Series
The Entry Point
Good rods that won't break the bank. Perfect if you want to try BFS without spending a fortune.
- Light, sensitive blanks
- Handle micro jigs and small soft plastics
- Ultra Light through Medium Heavy options
- Solid performance for the price
Who it's for: New to BFS or need a backup rod that works.
Suppressor Series
The Step Up
Better components, more refined actions. For guys who fish regularly and want gear that performs consistently.
- Upgraded blank construction
- Better guide systems
- More casting distance
- Stronger backbone for bigger fish
Who it's for: Regular BFS anglers who want reliable performance.
Buoyancy Series
The Specialist
Built specifically for micro lures. Premium materials and components for serious BFS fishing.
- High-end carbon blanks (30+24 ton modulus)
- Titanium guides with zirconium inserts
- Carbon fiber grips
- Extremely light weight
- Blue and gold finish
Who it's for: Dedicated BFS guys who want the best gear for micro presentations.
Midnight Series
No Compromise
Our top-tier rods. Everything we know about building rods goes into these.
- Highest grade materials
- Custom components
- Competition-level performance
- Limited production
Who it's for: Tournament fishermen and serious enthusiasts who need every advantage.
BFS Techniques That Actually Catch Fish
Dropshot
Works great in 5-20 feet. The sensitivity lets you feel every rock and detect light bites.
Ned Rig
1/32 to 1/16 oz heads become surgical tools. Perfect for clear water and pressured fish.
Small Crankbaits
Tiny squarebills and shallow runners. BFS gear lets you work them precisely around cover.
Finesse Topwater
Small poppers and buzzbaits that don't spook fish but still trigger strikes.
Getting Started With BFS
Pick Your Rod First
If you're new to this, start with our Kinetic Ultra Light or Light. At $99, it's an easy way to see if BFS works for you.
Rod Powers:
- Ultra Light (6'6"): Micro jigs, tiny soft plastics
- Light (7'0"): Ned rigs, dropshot, small cranks
- Medium Light (7'0"): Most versatile, handles bigger presentations
Get a BFS Reel
You need a reel with a shallow spool designed for light lures. Shimano Curado BFS, Daiwa Alphas Air, or KastKing Zephyr BFS are good options.
Start Simple
Begin with techniques you already know, just smaller. If you throw ned rigs on spinning gear, try them on BFS gear. Same presentation, better control.
Why We Build These Rods
We're not trying to reinvent fishing. BFS works because it gives you precision when you need it. Our rods work because we build them right.
As a veteran-owned company, we stand behind our products. One-year warranty, and we'll make things right if something goes wrong.
BFS isn't going anywhere. More fishermen are figuring out that finesse presentations catch fish when nothing else works. We're just making sure they have the right tools to do it.
Need help deciding on the right one for you? Call us to speak to one of our pro staff.
