Friday, March 27, 2026

2026 GT Trip preparing

 stay tuned!!!
Big Game Go Big





Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Carpenter Bluefish 120

 Got few DM, requesting summary / review of Carpenter Bluefish 120.  Truthfully, past 5 years I haven't got into popping due to  Covid and work commitment.
Anyway, I try my best to write something.  Generally, i did wrote something in 2021 HERE

Originally, The Blue Fish, was released in 2005, was designed to activates the predatory switch in fish eaters with a different movement from the Gamma Series.  It incorporates an "extremely unique movement" that is unlike any other. Sometimes, this flavor is enough to activate the predatory switch.

Carpenter Bluefish 120 (BF120-210) is a highly regarded, hand-made Japanese floating stick bait designed for targeting large predatory fish like yellowtail, GT, and tuna.

Model: BF120-210
Total Length: 210mm (8.3 inches)
Weight Approx: 116g (4oz)
Specific Gravity: Floating
Suitable Hook Weight Approx: 11g (per piece)
Split Ring Carpenter: SR 250lb
Origin: Made in Japan

The lure is designed to have an "extremely unique movement" that differs from the brand's other series, such as the Gamma, and is effective in turning on the "predator switch" of fish.  The BF120-210 has a short pitch, making it easy to operate in rough sea conditions with large elevation differences. 

Due to high demand and limited production, these lures can be hard to find and often sell out quickly. They are frequently available through online marketplaces and specialist tackle shops.

As for the action, my feedbacks are that BF120-210 has two main actions:
1) Simple pull with minimal rod action and less stop
and
2) "Gamma jerk" where the speed, length, pitch and stop time of the jerk can be adjusted flexibly depending on the characteristics of the target fish and the situation.

As for normal BF, the earliest database I got from Oct 2016







In June 2024, Carpenter did release to versions of BF i.e. normal BF and special BF 120 with fish mark sticker.



Note that Carpenter did produce variation of Bluefish 120 namely BF120 NB type which available three types: "L", "H" and "extreme".  Please go to Konishi's Blog to know more about NB series. HERE

There are also BF 120 FG type. HERE

I think BF120 will suitable pairing with variety of GT Rods that ranging from PE6 to PE8 30lb-38lb class e.g.
  1. SLP80/33
  2. PJ80/36
  3. TBL80/30 
  4. TBL80/35
  5. TBL83/32
  6. TBL711/35
  7. EP85/36
  8. EP88/35
  9. EP82/38
  10. CV79/35
  11. heavier rods e.g. CV79/40, TBL80/40, EP86/40 RP-1 and F3 711/40 are for those who are expert and familiar with operation playing the lure.
As for BLC Series  which recommended for Yellowtail and Tuna, BLC83/30 R-PM SC,  BLC80/35 R-PM SC,  BLC83/35 R-PM SC,  BLC80/40 R-PM SC,  BLC83/40 R-PM,  BLC86/25 and BLC84/22 R-P1 (Barely possible).




Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.

Friday, October 24, 2025

2025 GT Trip preparing

 Trying to be a minimalist.  Limit myself to PE6-8 class.

TBL80/30, PJ80/36, SLP80/38, SLP80/33 and TBL80/35

red = PowerPro 80lb, blue= Sunline Monster Battle Cast Away PE6,
Pink = Sunline Full Contact X8 PE8

chugger max 120g

stickbait max 140g



Decoy Hooks


Dont leave home without Daiwa Split Ring Plier 125H

NT Swivels #1, #1/0; Owner Splitring # 8/9/10


Still mood didn't come.....hehehehe





Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.

after a long rest.....

 After a long rest of fishing....trying to get the mood back....



April 2018 Sawda Island, Oman
Rod: Carpenter F3 711/40
Lure: Native-Works Napalm 220 Black Abalone
Hooks: Decoy SW BigBlue 6/0
Leader: cannot remember either Fisherman Stealth 200lb or Prosele Nanodax 210lb
GT weight: i think +- 40kg



Mach 2020, Jarak Island, Malaysia
Rod: Carpenter  TBL80/35
Lure: Carpenter GT-y 140L FishingFish
Hooks: Decoy SW BigBlue 6/0
Leader: Prosele Nanodax 170lb
Line: PowerPro 80lb
GT Weight: small size only



Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

GT Popping thru ChatGPT

 2023 is the start of AI evolution where we create AI to help us.  Years to come will be like Matrix and Terminator...hehehe.  So below is the answer given to me regarding GT Popping.

Me: GT Popping
CGPT: I'm sorry, I'm not sure what you mean by "GT Popping." Can you please provide more context or information about what you're referring to?

Me: GT Fishing
CGPT: GT fishing typically refers to fishing for Giant Trevally (Caranx ignobilis), a powerful and aggressive predatory fish that is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. GT fishing is a popular sport fishing activity that often involves using heavy tackle, lures or live bait, and techniques such as popping and jigging to entice the fish to strike. Giant Trevally are known for their strength, speed, and fighting ability, making them a challenging target for anglers. They can grow up to 1.7 meters (5.6 feet) in length and weigh over 80 kilograms (176 pounds). GT fishing is often practiced in locations such as the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Islands, and the Caribbean, where Giant Trevally are commonly found

Me: Popping
CGPT: Popping is a fishing technique that is commonly used in GT fishing and involves using a popper lure to attract fish to the surface of the water. A popper is a type of topwater lure that creates a loud popping or splashing noise when it is retrieved across the water's surface. This noise imitates the sound of prey that is in distress or fleeing, which can trigger a predatory response from fish like Giant Trevally.

To use the popping technique, an angler will typically cast the popper lure out over the water and then use a series of short, sharp jerks of the rod to make the lure pop and splash across the surface. The angler will then pause and wait for a few seconds before repeating the process. This technique can be highly effective for attracting and enticing fish to strike, as it creates a visual and auditory stimulus that is hard for predatory fish to resist.

Popping can be a physically demanding technique, as it often involves using heavy tackle and requires a lot of effort to make the popper lure work effectively. However, it can be an exciting and rewarding way to catch fish, particularly when targeting species like Giant Trevally that are known for their aggressive nature and powerful fighting ability.

Me: Popping Equipment
CGPT: To practice popping, you'll need specific equipment to perform the technique effectively. Here are the main pieces of equipment typically used for popping:

1. Rod: A popping rod is a specialized type of fishing rod that is designed to handle the heavy lures and lines used for popping. Popping rods are typically short, stiff, and have a fast action to help the angler make quick, powerful jerks of the rod to make the popper lure work effectively.

2. Reel: A high-quality spinning reel with a high line capacity is usually recommended for popping. The reel should be designed to handle braided lines, which are commonly used for popping.

3. Line: Braided lines are the preferred choice for popping, as they have a thin diameter, low stretch, and high strength. A line with a breaking strength of at least 50-80 lbs is recommended for GT fishing.

4. Leader: A leader is a length of heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon line that is attached to the braided mainline to help prevent the fish from seeing the line and spooking. Leaders for popping should be at least 6-8 feet long and have a breaking strength of 80-130 lbs.

5. Poppers: Poppers are the specialized topwater lures used for popping. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but generally have a cupped or concave face that creates a loud popping or splashing noise when retrieved across the water's surface.

6. Hooks: Strong, sharp hooks with a thick gauge are recommended for popping, as the technique involves setting the hook with a strong jerk of the rod. Treble hooks are commonly used for popping, and should be at least 4X strength to handle the powerful jaws of a fish like Giant Trevally.

7. Other gear: A good pair of polarized sunglasses is essential for spotting fish and navigating shallow waters. Sun protection gear such as a hat, sunscreen, and long-sleeved shirts are also recommended to protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays.

Me: Popping rod
CGPT: A popping rod is a specialized type of fishing rod that is designed for the technique of popping. Popping rods are typically short, stout, and have a fast action, which makes them ideal for making quick, powerful jerks of the rod to work the popper lure effectively.

When choosing a popping rod, it's important to consider several factors, including the length, power, action, and material of the rod. Here are some general guidelines to follow when selecting a popping rod:

1. Length: Popping rods are usually shorter than other types of fishing rods, typically between 7 and 8 feet in length. The shorter length helps the angler to make quick, powerful jerks of the rod to work the popper lure effectively.

2. Power: Popping rods should have a strong power rating, usually ranging from medium-heavy to extra-heavy. The power of the rod should be matched to the size of the fish being targeted and the weight of the lures being used.

3. Action: Popping rods should have a fast or extra-fast action, which means that the rod will bend primarily in the upper third or quarter of the rod when pressure is applied to the tip. This action helps the angler to make quick, powerful jerks of the rod to work the popper lure effectively.

4. Material: Popping rods are commonly made from graphite or composite materials, which are lightweight, strong, and sensitive.

5. Guides: Popping rods should have high-quality guides that are designed to handle the heavy braided lines used for popping. Guides made from materials such as ceramic or titanium are recommended, as they are durable and can handle the abrasion from braided lines.

Overall, a good popping rod should be strong, sensitive, and easy to handle, allowing the angler to make quick and accurate casts, work the popper lure effectively, and battle big fish like Giant Trevally with confidence.



Me: GT lures
CGPT: GT (giant trevally) are one of the most sought-after game fish for popping and jigging anglers. These powerful fish require strong and durable lures that can withstand their hard-hitting strikes and fierce fighting style. Here are some popular lures for GT fishing:

1. Stickbaits: Stickbaits are long, slender lures that mimic the profile and movement of a fleeing baitfish. They are typically worked with a twitching action to create a popping sound on the surface, which attracts GTs to strike. Some popular stickbaits for GT fishing include the Carpenter Gamma, Orion Bigfoot, Heru Cubera, and Fisherman Pop Queen.

2. Poppers: Poppers are short, fat lures that create a loud "pop" sound when worked with a jerking motion. This sound and movement imitate the actions of a struggling baitfish and trigger the predatory instincts of GTs. Some popular poppers for GT fishing include the Carpenter Bluefish, Orion Popper, Heru Skipjack, and Fisherman Long Pen.

3. Jigs: Jigs are versatile lures that can be worked at different depths and with various techniques to target GTs. Slow-pitch and high-speed jigging are common techniques used for GT fishing. Some popular jigs for GT fishing include the Shimano Butterfly, Jigging Master Fallings, Jigpara, and Daiwa Saltiga SK Jig.

4. Metal Slices: Metal slices are heavy lures that can be worked at high speeds to target GTs. They have a shiny, metallic finish that reflects light and attracts fish. Some popular metal slices for GT fishing include the Halco Twisty, Sebile Koolie Minnow, Shimano Colt Sniper, and Williamson Benthos Speed Jig.

When selecting lures for GT fishing, it's important to consider the size and weight of the lure, the depth of water being fished, and the prevailing conditions. It's also important to choose high-quality lures that can withstand the strong strikes and hard fighting of GTs.


I am really really amazed on how ChatGPT answered my questions!!!!!!
I did asked many questions regrading rod models, lures models but I think its up to you to figure it yourself...hehehe.


Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.

Sunday, April 2, 2023

Carpenter: Sea Leopard 80/38

 


Full article can be view at Carpenter Official

Specification: 2450mm, PE Max 8, Lure weight: 100-250g, Drag 12g max.

Just got this rod, after waiting for a quite sometime...
Have not sea testing but i think it is an "easy rod" just just like its little brother SLP80/33.  

Was thinking to pair with 140-160g stickbait but no idea about the tip action yet.  So KIV with y-140, y-160, BF140, BF160 and SA150.  Also with test with N120, SF120, Damsel 120, HustlePop 130g.
Still wonder the comparison with PJ80/36, TBL80/35, EP82/38.  As for reel, maintain with SW14000XG with PE6 90lb line and 150-170lb leader.

No idea if can get big GT to see the full bending of the rod...hehehe...keep praying....

As for little brother SLP80/33, currently my favorite rod with 120g stickbait and 90-120 chugger/swimmer.

Happy Ramadan Kareem 2023!!!





Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Carpenter : Sea Frog SF120 Twinhook vs Sea Frog SF110 Type-LQ vs Sea Frog Evo II 105

 In 2010/11 the 1st version of Sea Frog was released and later in Dec 2014 2nd version was made to public.  It was one of the most sought after lure due to its performance and rarity.  

In  May 2021, another version of Sea Frog was made i.e. Sea Frog Evo II 105.  Not many can have their hands on these lures due to Covid pandemic this time and its limited quantity of international release.

Click HERE for more info.

Size 165mm. Weight about 104g. Compatible hook 11g. Split ring 250lb. Seafrog evo.II 105 is a model modified to lighten the pull of " Seafrog evo.I " released in 2008. The body size is almost the same as "SEA FROG 120 " released in 1996.


Sea Frog Evo II 105 : Black bass metal paste color (taken form Carpenter's website)

In Dec 2022, Sea Frog SF110 Type-LQ was released.  Click HERE.

Colors of Sea Frog SF110 Type-LQ (taken from Konishi's blog)




Top SF120 TH vs SF110 LQ  : 190mm length

Same diameter mouth size ~ 42.9mm

SF 110 LQ : 42.9mm

SF120 TH : 42.9mm


SF 105 Evo II : 42.1mm




SF 110LQ : 111gram


SF 120 TH : ~ 120.9 gram
Knowing Carpenter lures, they have one of the tightest weight margin i.e. +/- 1 gram



SF120 Twinhook vs SF110 Type-LQ


All three lures using 11g treble hooks e.g. Decoy Saltwater 6/0.
I have yet to sea trial the SF110 LQ, but I really love the action of SF120 TH, where I can pop, and chug and make loud "BLOOP" with it.

As for rods, I think all three SF lures will compatible with at least 33lb class Carpenter rods e.g. SLP80/33 and easily chug with PJ80/36, EP82/38, CV79/40 and F3 711/40 using min PE6 90lb mainline and 170lb leader.






Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.


Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Carpenter : Sea Frog SF110 Type-LQ

 A newer version of SeaFrog twin hook was released circa Dec 8, 2022. It was called SF 110 Type-LQ. Specification as below:

Sea Frog Twin Hook Type-LQ
Length: 190mm
Weight: 110g
Hook: 11g each with Splitring 250lb
Action: Popping with short stop interval, the lure will move sideway


I still cannot get my hand on these lures.  So picture below are from Konishi-san's blog.





Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.

2023

 Happy Happy 2023!!!
May All Be Blessed !!!

Monday, May 23, 2022

Carpenter Utahime (Diva)

 æ­Œå§« pronouned as Utahime.
From Japanese 歌 (uta) meaning "song" combined with 姫 (hime) meaning "princess" i.e. Song Princess or songstress or Diva.

Carpenter Utahime (UH) was born as product that have less water resistant due to its small mouth cup compared to the big brother Damsel and as alternative fish attractor with different movement as contrast to Gamma (y) or Bluefish (BF) lures.

Utahime was first introduced in 2019 and production sales in 2021.  As May 2022, there 4 for models of Utahime produced i.e. Utahime 120g, Utahime 95g, Utahime 70g and Utahime 70g Nagi (calm version).


Based on maker Konishi-san's blog there are also Utahime 250g which resides under KLL plug series.

Utahime 250 KLL

The features of Utahime design is to catch GT, Amberjack and Tuna with small low splash and slight diving action.  I found that if you don't have a 13g hook for Utahime 120, you can choose either 11g or 15g hook for both front and back.  Also different size hook will gives you slight different action.  Please do try with 11g and 15g hooks or the combination, you'll be surprise on how "pleasant" the action of the lure.

As for compatible rods, BlueChaser BLC Super Cobra, Great Python GP and Endless Passion series were recommended based on the lure weight used.   I can say that for Utahime lures, due to the small mouth, rods with "lower" LB rating, soft tip, not so stiff middle section can also be effective to "play" the lures.  Myself used TBL83/32 or SLP80/33 or TBL80/35 or PJ80/36 EP85/36 to play Utahime 120 lures.  I think if applied more powerful rod with LB rating more that 38Lb, Utahime 120 will easily jump out of the water with normal slack line.

As for colors for Utahime 120, 5 were produced for sale back in 2021.

Utahime 120 smoke black metal pasted

Utahime 120 white metal pasted

Utahime 120 flyingfish

Utahime 120 black back side gold metal pasted

Utahime 120 black metal pasted

For Diva 95, it was classified as "special sale" where anglers can buy them if they send Memorial Catch Photo on Jan 22, 2022.
I do not know if Carpenter wants to produce Utahime 95 as normal production or just Special sale lures.  Kinda frustrated.......

Utahime 95 Special Sale color

Utahime 95 Special Sale color


Last size in Utahime collection is the small 70mm 68g that came in two version i.e. normal version and "Nagi" calm.  But there is also a version named "Utahime 70 L-Quiet" which schedule as Special Sale version.

Utahime 70 and Utahime Nagi color

Difference in labeling between normal (bottom) and Nagi version (top)

As for color goes, Utahime 70 was produced in 6 colors i.e. White metal paste, Dark Blueback Yellow side, Black back Gold side, Anchovy metal paste, Sardine metal paste and Flying fish metal paste.  I think Utahime 70 series were produced targeted for yellowfin tuna fishing.

Please refer to official website HERE for further Information.


Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.




Monday, April 11, 2022

Carpenter Strike Eagle

1st writing in many months!!  Dunno what topic to write. Carpenter has released few major lure models in past 3 years i.e. Strike Eagle (Oct 2020), Utahime / Diva (Jan 2021) plus the special Seafrog Evo 105 (May 2021).
2018-19 sees a lot of Carpenter released 120gram lure class. BF120, GeNei 120, Hayabusa 120 and in April 2019 new color for Maihime 120 was released.

Lets talk about Carpenter Strike Eagle.
It is said that Strike Eagle (SE) appeals with effective movements different from those of Gamma (y), Bluefish (BF), Maihime (Dancer), Ge-Nei (Illusion), and Hayabusa (Falcon) with target fish mainly amberjack i.e. Hiramasa of Genkai Sea and other Seriola sp and GT. In Konishi's blog, it is said that SE is often good for tidal and wind waves.  So far i have not seen any video or youtube regrading the action of SE lures.

I have been told that Hiramasa of Genkai Sea is very picky and sensitive to bait fish and the diet depends on season.

SE started with KLL042A lure and normal production sales started in October 2020. Strike Eagle is planned to be 30g, 45g, 60g, 75g, 100g, 120g, 150g, 200g, 250g and  350g. It can be adjusted to the size of the bait fish, so if it is completed, it will be more effective lure chasing the Hiramasa.

Frabkly speaking, I am a little bit confused and amazed on the sub-model of SE lures i.e. Normal, L-Quite, LL-Quite and Active version.  So with different lure weight of 10 sizes, all together there will be 40 versions of Strike Eagle lures!!! And for collectors there plenty of lure colors!!!

As the time of this writing, I managed to know 3 sizes of lures produced i.e. SE100, DE150 and SE150 while few models are in prototype version e.g. SE120, SE150 rattle version, SE250 currently tested with Captain Tashiro-san of Sunrise in Genkai Sea.

Below is the specification of produced SE

SE100 Normal / 215mm / approx. 100g / F

SE100 L-Quiet / 215mm / approx. 89g / F

SE100 LL-Quiet / 215mm / approx. 85g / F

SE100 Active / 215mm / approx. 99g / F


SE150 245mm / approx. 146g / F

SE150 L-Quiet / 245mm / approx. 130g / F

SE150 LL-Quiet / 245mm / approx. 124g / F

SE150 Active / 245mm / approx. 145g / F


SE250 Normal / 295mm / Approx. 242g / F

SE250 L-Quiet / 295mm / Approx. 215g / F

SE250 LL-Quiet / 295mm / Approx. 205g / F

SE250 Active / 295mm / Approx. 240g /

As for hook size:
SE100 / hook weight (per piece) approx. 8g or 9g / SP ring 250Lb

SE150 / hook weight (per piece) approx. 13g (11g or 15g can be used also) / SP ring 350Lb

SE250 / Hook weight (per piece) Approx. 20g / SP ring 350Lb

As for rod, almost all Carpenter rods can play SE e.g. EP series, SLP series, PJ series, BLC series, TBL series, F3 series, MH series, etc., rods that match the lure weight, wave conditions, and fish conditions.

Luckily Current lure color for SE is only three Blue Pilotfish,  Black (Metal) and  Blue Back Hologram.  There is also two special color produced for SE250 i.e. Limited Color Tokara Special and Limited Color Genkai Nada Special.

I am quite surprise that SE lure is also design to target GTs of Tokara.

Below pictures were taken from official Carpenter website


SE250 Limited Color Tokara Special


SE250 Limited Color Genkai Nada Special












Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.
Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines.
Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.
Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.











Sunday, August 1, 2021

Carpenter Bluefish 100-200

 Truthfully I have no idea when is the first production of Bluefish 100-200 (BF100).  I presume the test was done as the same period with BF120/130 during maker Mr Konishi's trip to Komodo end of 2004.  All pictures below were taken from Official Carpenter's website. Please see the official site for BF100 here.

Found this picture from Carpenter website

Also found form Carpenter's website are prototype of BF100 and BF130


As other BF series, due to it's short pitch, BF100 is suitable for more choppy sea condition with its rolling S action.  BF100 is suitable for anglers who targeted GT, YFT, amberjack and hiramasa.
Action for BF100 can be seen here and for BF120 is here.

Overall length is 200mm with average weight is 95g.  Compatible hook weight per piece is 9g e.g. Decoy YS-22 5/0, Decoy SW 5/0, STX-88 4/0, ST-66 4/0, Takumi 4/0 and single hook Yamai #35.  For hiramasa, most BLC series rods are compatible with BF100. 

As for GT, it is suggested TBL80/20, TBL83/32, TBL80/35, EP85/36, EP88/35, and for those who are expert CV79/35 is also recommended. 

I think BF100 one of most common Carpenter's lure production where almost every 2 or 3 years, there will be production of BF100.

I also found 2 pictures from www.proshopfishing.com showing 2004 BF100. 



The earliest pictures of  mass production of BF100 I can find is September 2008, where I presume the are more older production of BF100.  I think there is a production of BF100 to commemorate Bassmate  shop opening/anniversary in 2013. All pictures below were taken from Carpenter's website to show production color.


2008 September BF100 - Gurukun

2008 Septmber BF100 - Clownfish


2009 September BF100 - Black back

2009 September BF100 - Dark blue back

2011 August & 2012 January BF100 - Blue back

2013 December  BF100 - Brimodoki (Pilot fish)

2013 December BF100 - CamusSawara

2013 December BF100 - Dark blue back

2013 December BF100 - Flying fish brown back

2013 December BF100 - Pink back

2016 Mac BF100 - Cobalt blue side purple

2016 Mac BF100 - Dark blue back gold tiger stripe

2016 Mac BF100 - Diablo black back

2016 Mac BF100 - Flying fish deep blue back

2016 Mac BF100 - Nirami hanadai

2017 February BF100 - Diablo white

2017 February BF100 - Nirami hanadai

2019 January BF100 - Black back orange belly

2019 January BF100 - Dark blue back gold tiger stripe

2019 January BF100 - Blue back holographic

2019 January BF100 - Diablo black back

2019 January BF100 - Diablo white holographic

2019 January BF100 - Flying fish black back

2019 January BF100 - Nirami hanadai

2019 April / 2020 February BF100 - Diablo dark blue back

2019 April / 2020 February BF100 - Diablo white holographic

2019 April / 2020 February BF100 - Black back orange belly

2019 April / 2020 February BF100 - Blue back side gold

2019 April / 2020 February BF100 - Nanyobudai

2019 April / 2020 February BF100 - Hirami hanadai

2019 April / 2020 February BF100 - Diablo clownfish

2013 BF100 - Bassmate Anniversary



Please noted for 2019-20 production there are lures with "Fish Mark" sticker at the belly.  Myself cannot see any difference of swimming action between non-fish mark and fish-mark BF100. It was told in Carpenter's website that BF100 with "fish mark" label is a "tuned-model" and effective when amberjack chases preys from summer to autum in Genkai Sea, Japan.








Disclaimer
I do not claim to be an authority in the field of the rod, lure and equipment testing and the use of any information on this site are at the user’s and buyer's own risk.  All of the above writing is just my passions, feedback and opinion and acts as information for the public.  Please browse official sites for more accurate explanations and descriptions. While I make every effort to provide accurate and complete information, I provide no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information on this site. I welcome suggestions on how to improve this site’s content and correct errors. I am also NOT ASSOCIATED with any brands and/or promoting and /or advertising any brands.Lure MAX and line MAX and notation of drag value are reference levels. Please consider casting methods and fighting methods etc. as it changes with the person who uses it.
Those who are expert the basics of loading method properly can use bigger lures and even use thicker lines. Rod weight is a numerical value when measuring the prototype rod. Please acknowledge that there are some errors at the time of the product.  Rod Specifications Parts are subject to change without prior notice for improvement. Please note that.