The Old 18 Buoyancy 7'0" Medium Light, Casting, Mod Fast and the new Bates Fishing Co. Hundo 100 low profile baitcasting reel
It was fun to get out early this morning and try out my two new investments. These were purchased for my obsession for chasing the “Rowdy Reds” and Maryland’s “Rockfish” (Striped Bass) on the shallow saltwater flats of the Maryland and Virginia Chesapeake Bay with the finesse of light tackle and tiny offerings, an obsession developed growing up along the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast.
I took them out for a spin on Lake Marburg, Codorus State Park close to my home and along the Mason Dixon Line of Maryland and Pennsylvania. I did manage to catch a couple of the stocked, pure strain, striped bass just at sunrise at the point near the marina, although both were small, perhaps 16 to 18 inches, but a lot of fun on my new toys of the trade, and of course from my Old Town Autopilot 120 Kayak. Otherwise, it was a typical Lake Marburg day, “for me lately” with not much to brag about…. But then I am a saltwater aficionado, and not much of freshwater angler….. “yet,” although I am learning, especially since a favorite little lake is only 5 minutes away from my driveway….
I am no stranger to Old 18 thanks to the YouTuber Mark from MDLR Fishing in Texas. He brings back fond memories of my old stomping grounds and I have pretty much fished every location he films. I just wish Old 18 was around back during those years. And the Hundo 100, Wow!!! It casts like a dream and only weighs five ounces, add that to an exceptionally light rod and you can forget about any fatigue from a full day of casting.
I think I this rod is amazing, how light it is and the action, think these rods have a great back bone for being so light and I did receive a rod sleeve for this one
The 7' Medium Light Casting Mod Fast is very sensitive and also protects light lines. A terrific companion rod to my Old18 UL which I can also recommend (also in picture) this MedLight can throw my slightly heavier ned rigs or BFS spoons easily, and it casts a mile. The grip is great, likewise the balance, and the shorter butt section makes it easy to handle, especially in a small boat or tighter spots. The mod fast makes for a very forgiving casting stroke, and that along with the rod being very light means I can fish it all day without fatigue. Plenty of backbone too. HIGHLY recommended, both the rod and the crew at Old18.
I would like to thank the builder first and foremost. The rod cast like a dream, this rod is the best medium lite rod I have ever used. I own several high end rods, this is dollar for dollar the best ever rod (the cost not being a factor this is the best rod made). It is paired with the metanium dc 70 from Japan and have the best combo I could ask for.
Perfect for me in a kayak. Lightweight and strong! I throw only lures and it saves on fatigue on my elbow and shoulders. Don’t highstick it and it won’t break.