Once you go Japanese, you never go back… right? Well, that’s certainly the case when it comes to high end rods, the Yamaga Blue Sniper! If you’re a keen land based angler and like the sound of sensitive, lightweight rods with stacks of power, then I’d strongly suggest reading on…
Despite owning a boat, land based fishing always has and probably always will be my happy place. For me, nothing much compares to fighting a big fish with two feet planted firmly on land… I think it’s the juxtaposing combination of the simplicity of fishing from the shore, and the many difficulties/challenges it brings in terms of successfully extracting and landing fish that makes it the most rewarding form of fishing for me. This is particularly the case when it comes to fishing the ocean rocks.
For the past 8 years or so, I’ve dedicated plenty of time, effort and money to spinning various rock platforms, both locally and north of Sydney. Mulloway/Jewies on lures is my primary focus, although I’ve dabbled in other areas too, including LBG. In the early days, a Daiwa Demon Blood 962MH was the weapon of choice. This rod did plenty of damage for me, claiming its fair share of nice jew and some solid longtail tuna, among other things… Despite its decent track record, I always wished it had a little bit more head-turning power, especially down low. The main issue I found when searching for potential replacements was that additional power came with a hefty price… Namely, an increase in weight and a loss of sensitivity. The day I first picked up a Yamaga Blue Sniper, that all changed…
Constructed on Toray ‘Nanoalloy’ blanks, the Yamaga Blue Sniper shore casting range comprises 6 models. Starting on the lighter side of things, the 96ML & 103L (PE2) are the lightweight spinning models. The 103L is the lightest model, suitable for throwing small metals and stickbaits in the 15-40g range, mainly for salmon and tailor in sheltered waters/off the beach. On the other hand, the shorter 96ML model offers a little bit more power and is better suited to lures in the 20-50g range. Those looking to chase snapper on soft plastics may also be interested in this one...
The next step up is the 100M (PE3). With a recommended maximum lure weight of 50g for plugs and 80g for jigs, this model is one of the most versatile in the range… The sensitivity of this model means that it retains suitability for smaller pelagic species off the beaches/rocks and bigger snapper on soft plastics, whilst also crossing into light tackle territory for a number of larger fish applications, including spinning for longtail tuna and mulloway. If you’re after a versatile pe3 rod, this could be the one for you!
In the PE4 class, there are two models available – the 97MMH & the 100MH. Aside from being slightly shorter, the 97MMH enjoys virtually the same butt power as the 100MH, only with a slightly more sensitive/flexible tip. This makes this model rather attractive for those looking to carefully manipulate stickbaits. As a natural consequence of this, the 100MH can handle slightly heavier lures, maxing out at around 120g for jigs and 80g for plugs/stickbaits. I’d say the sweet spot is more around 80-100g for jigs and 65-75g for plugs/stickbaits though… Depending on the anglers preference, either rod is well suited to spinning lures for longtail tuna, spanish mackerel and kingfish, as well as a variety of jewfish applications, both off the rocks and on the beaches… Jay was lucky enough to put the 97MMH through its paces on a trip to Lord Howe Island in 2020, snaring plenty of XL silver trevally and big spangled emperor in the process!
Finally, at the top of the tree are the two power models – the 910H & the 106H plug special. Rated to PE5 apiece, both models enjoy plenty of power down low. The 106H was primarily designed with lure manipulation in mind. For this reason, this model is a fantastic option for those looking for a longer rod to carefully work stickbaits off the rocks, particularly for kingfish. I’ve also found this model to be great for throwing hardbodied lures for jewies off the rocks/breakwalls… The extra length and tip sensitivity facilitates slightly better casting than the 910H (lure dependent of course), whilst providing a little bit of extra forgiveness despite having ample power down low to put the brakes on!
On the other hand, if power is your main priority, then the 910H is the model for you… This rod covers a lot of my jewie fishing in heavy structure, particularly with bigger soft plastics… Personally, I’ve always been a fan of stiffer rods with plenty of hook setting power for that kind of work. This model also makes a great rod for chasing blue groper, as well as kingfish and various other heavy tackle applications that command a longer rod. This is definitely one of the most popular models in the range, and for good reason!
All in all, it’s a combination of weight (or lack thereof), sensitivity and power that takes these rods well beyond what standard “off the shelf” options can provide… What they command in price is easily made up for in quality and performance. If you’re a keen land based angler, you owe it to yourself to come in and check them out! Fishing Station stocks most of the range (subject to stock availability). If there’s a particular model that you’re interested in, call ahead to make sure that we have it in stock. If we don’t have it, steps will be taken to order it in.
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