Why I Choose G. Loomis NRX+ Rods
When it comes to high-performance fishing rods, the G. Loomis NRX+ series stands out as one of the best in the game. Gussy considers himself lucky to be able to fish with these rods and can confidently say they are some of the finest you’ll ever pick up. They are high-end, but once you use them, you’ll immediately understand why they’re worth the investment.
What makes the NRX+ series so good? It’s all about sensitivity, balance, and durability. These rods are incredibly lightweight yet strong, allowing you to feel the lightest bites while still having the backbone to handle big fish. Whether you’re finesse fishing with a light line or flipping jigs into heavy cover, an NRX+ rod is built for the application.
If you’re considering adding an NRX+ to your arsenal, pick one that fits your favorite technique. A well-matched rod can elevate your game, helping you fish more efficiently and detect strikes that other rods might miss.
Top Rods for Different Fishing Techniques
Gussy has used a lot of rods over the years, but two of his favorites in the NRX+ lineup stand out:
- NRX+ 842 SJR (Spinning Rod) is his go-to spinning rod, especially for techniques like a Ned rig, minnow, small swimbaits, and other finesse applications. It’s a medium-action rod, which means it has enough flex to handle lighter presentations but still provides excellent hook-setting power. If you like fishing finesse baits, this is the rod to get.
- NRX+ 893 JWR (Baitcasting Rod) – This medium-heavy casting rod is a workhorse. He uses it for football jigs, dock fishing, hair jigs, and more. It has the perfect blend of power and sensitivity, making it an essential tool for tournament anglers who need to cover multiple techniques.
Both rods are built with G. Loomis’ Spiral X technology, improving strength and responsiveness. Whether working a subtle finesse bait or making powerful hooksets, these rods give you the confidence to fish at a high level.
How to Choose the Right Reel for Your Needs
A great rod needs an equally great reel to perform at its best. That’s why he pairs his NRX+ spinning rods with the Shimano Stella FK—arguably the smoothest spinning reel ever made.
The Shimano Stella FK is a premium reel designed for anglers who demand top-tier performance. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Unmatched Smoothness – Shimano’s MicroModule II gearing makes this reel incredibly smooth, which means effortless casting and reeling.
- Precision Engineering – Built with Hagane gearing and an X-Protect system, the Stella is both ultra-durable and highly resistant to water intrusion.
- Superior Drag System – With a buttery-smooth drag, you can confidently fight big fish without worrying about sudden line breaks.
If you really want to spoil yourself, putting a Shimano Stella on an NRX+ rod is about as good as it gets in bass fishing. It’s an elite combination that serious anglers will appreciate.
Final Thoughts
Fishing at a high level requires confidence in your gear, and for Gustafson, that means using the G. Loomis NRX+ series and Shimano Stella reels. These tools give him the sensitivity, strength, and reliability he needs to compete with the best.
If you’re serious about taking your fishing to the next level, investing in quality rods and reels is one of the best moves you can make. Whether you prefer finesse fishing with a light spinning setup or power fishing with a baitcaster, the right equipment will help you land more fish and make every trip more enjoyable.