Shimano Backbone vs Okuma Azores
Printed From: The Fishing Website
Category: Saltwater Fishing
Forum Name: Popper and Topwater Fishing
Forum Description: If you're into a bit of action on top, this is the forum for you
URL: https://www.fishing.net.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=136323
Printed Date: 04 Jun 2026 at 2:00pm
Topic: Shimano Backbone vs Okuma Azores
Posted By: mackjack
Subject: Shimano Backbone vs Okuma Azores
Date Posted: 22 Dec 2021 at 3:43pm
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Hello, I am after a topwater rod that I can use for off the rocks as well as casting stickbaits from the land or on the boat. I am using PE 8 and I have found 2 topwater rods that are within my budget. If you could please LMK what you think would work best that would be awesome! Okuma Azores Stickbait/Popper Casting Rod - 2pc 7'9 H - PE6-8 Cast 60-190g or Shimano Backbone Elite PE5-8 8'2 Topwater |
Replies:
Posted By: MB
Date Posted: 22 Dec 2021 at 4:39pm
| Go handle the rods, preferably with your choice of reel attached and you will have your answer. I'm sure both are good rods, but everyone's taste is slightly different. Fishing rods are the only thing I don't order online for this reason. |
Posted By: Sufishent
Date Posted: 22 Dec 2021 at 4:52pm
Great advice. FWIW - I don't have either rod but I tried them both in the shop a while back and found the Shimano quite stiff at the tip - great for poppers but perhaps less effective for stick baits. A mate has the Azores and that seems to be a little more supple in the tip. But check it out yourself as it needs to feel good in the hands and balanced with your reel. ------------- You can never have enough fishing tackle |
MB wrote:Posted By: mackjack
Date Posted: 22 Dec 2021 at 5:58pm
| Thanks very much for the advice people! Will go have a look at them and see how they feel with the reel on. |