DAIWA has officially launched its latest addition to the fishing reel market: the PX BF70, a baitcaster crafted for the specialized Bait Finesse (BF) technique. This reel aims to elevate the fishing experience, especially for anglers who fish in smaller, more pressured waters.
"Just when you think you’ve tried every freshwater fishing technique, along comes something new: ‘Bait Finesse,’ or BF," said a representative from DAIWA. This advanced method, which originated in Japan, developed among a community focused on high-tech fishing experiences. Given the challenges faced in Japan's limited freshwater resources, where fish are more vigilant, BF provides a solution. Traditional North American lures, which often feature energetic designs, may not always be effective in these conditions.
To meet these challenges, Japanese anglers conceptualized BF, emphasizing the use of smaller, lifelike lures that mimic the effectiveness of larger options. This transition necessitates lighter gear that does not compromise performance, thus the need for specialized baitcasting equipment. The PX BF70 stands out as the first dedicated BF baitcasting reel available in North America.
DAIWA Marketing Manager highlighted the essence of BF, stating, "It’s ninja fishing. Think of those stealthy anglers who fish small lakes, ponds, streams, and canals. They travel light, and fish small and technically. BF is gaining momentum with this crowd." This sentiment hints at the growing popularity of finesse fishing among dedicated anglers.
At the core of Bait Finesse is the PX BF70, a compact and high-performance reel. "We wanted to eliminate as much weight as possible, while retaining impeccable performance," said Mills, who emphasized the design goals behind the PX BF70. Notably, the spool weighs a mere 8.4 grams (.30 ounces), utilizing micro ball-bearings and an A7075 aircraft-grade aluminum drive gear. "Every little reduction in weight matters for micro fishing," Mills elaborated.
The unique lightweight spool plays a critical role in casting small lures effectively. "An exceptionally light spool is required to cast such small lures," Mills explained, referring to the types of lures utilized in BF fishing. Anglers often employ tiny hair jigs, inline spinners, and miniature jerkbaits, like DAIWA’s 2-inch Dr. Minnow.
Further enhancing its durability, the PX BF70 features an aluminum frame and side plates that contribute to its overall strength while keeping it ultra-light.
When discussing the casting capabilities of the PX BF70, Mills noted, "Casting distance and precision are vital in Bait Finesse." Though casts generally range from 20 to 50 feet, he stressed that these distances are substantial considering the lure weights. The design of the PX BF70 is intended to provide unmatched accuracy in these scenarios.
Mills also offered insight into line spooling for the PX BF70, remarking, "The reel isn’t intended to hold a ton of line, maybe 50-yards of straight fluorocarbon or 100-yards of light braid. Rather, it’s built to manage a small amount of line with exactness.” For optimal results, he suggests using 4- to 10-lb. test superline, such as J-Braid Grand x8, paired with a 2- to 8-lb. J-Fluoro fluorocarbon leader.
In addition to using micro crankbaits and inline spinners, Mills affirmed that BF techniques can be effectively applied to other finesse methods, such as dropshotting, Neko, Ned, and Wacky Rigging, allowing anglers to refine their preferred approaches.
BF’s application extends well beyond bass fishing. Trout anglers casting along pond banks and wading in streams have discovered advantages in using BF techniques over traditional spinning gear. This method provides enhanced feel, control, and casting distances that lead to successful catches.
Opportunities to utilize the PX BF70 for panfishing are abundant as well. Targeting spring-spawning crappies in timber or pursuing bluegills in weed pockets demonstrates the reel’s versatility.
DAIWA has infused the PX BF70 with its signature technologies designed to enhance fishing experiences and evolve the way anglers approach their time on the water.
In conclusion, the PX BF70 is set to become a game-changer for those looking to refine their finesse fishing skills. With specialization catching on in North America, the PX BF70 may very well revolutionize how anglers approach smaller bodies of water and the delicate art of Bait Finesse.