Quantum’s Smoke S3 Casting Rod

We’ve reviewed the new Quantum Smoke S3 casting reel so it only follows that we should also give the Smoke S3 Casting rod some attention since it too has been completely redesigned and reengineered this year.

Before we get into the specifics of these sticks, if you’re actively looking at the series, you’ll notice that the lure weight recommendations appear to be fairly narrow as you go from model to model.

This is a trend these days for a lot of manufacturers. It allows the angler to more precisely choose a rod for a given technique. That being said, it doesn’t necessarily define the only weights that you can use with a particular rod.

We obtained the Smoke S3 SMC706F casting rod. This rod is their Medium Heavy, fast action model. The line recommendation is for 8-17#, lure weight 1/4 -1/2, handle length is 15-1/2” and for guides it has 9+ tip.

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The New Quantum Smoke S3 – A Serious Contender

We were introduced to Quantum’s newest line of casting reels at ICAST last year during the on the water event. There, we were able to use the new Smoke Series Three (S3) for a few minutes which resulted in a longer conversation with Michael Whitman regarding the complete re-engineering that these reels have undergone.

 

We knew after having cast with them for several minutes that while they shared certain characteristics with the models they are replacing, these were very few with upgrades evident from top to bottom.

We have used several Quantum products in the past beginning with the Classic Express from many years ago. From then through the introduction of the S3, there have been an array of real good reels but there have also been some that have missed the mark.

This new line however really shows the commitment that the company has made to up the ante so that there products once again deliver for anglers across the spectrum. [Read more…]

The new Quantum Energy PT Casting reel

In our coverage of ICAST 2013, we mentioned some of the new reels that debuted in Vegas. The subject of our in-depth review today is on the new Quantum Energy PT. This reel was only available in right-hand retrieve but will soon be sold in the left-hand version. If you’ve been with us for a while, you know that we prefer the left-handed models. [Read more…]

ICAST 2013 Reels and Rods

When you go to ICAST you will inevitably find yourself looking at rods and reels. This year there are so many new or redesigned products, it would take a month of Sundays to give them all their due so we are again going to focus on those that really caught our attention and give you the reasons why.

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Quantum Smoke PT 150 Casting Reel

We haven’t reviewed any reels in a while because when we do obtain a new reel, we like to give it plenty of time on the water to see not only how it handles brand new, out of the box, but also if any peccadilloes arise over time.

Let’s face it, we’ve gotten some reels that during initial testing perform without a hitch and others, that given a few months, begin to break down very quickly. So, without further ado, let’s take an in-depth look at the Quantum PT Smoke 150 Casting Reel.   [Read more…]

ICAST 2011: Quantum

It’s that time of year again for ICAST and we here at MVF are going to try to take you through the show one manufacturer at a time and give you the highlights of the new gear that has been showcased.

Let’s start with Quantum who once again, have managed to debut a totally new product without a lot of pre-show publicity. Last year they debuted the Smoke baitcasting series with the Smoke rods.

This year they are adding a spinning reel and rods to the Smoke lineup. The spinning reel will be available in two sizes. A 25 series and a 30 series. These reels utilize porting everywhere they are able to reduce weight but maintain structural rigidity throughout the reel. Both are 10 bearing systems and both weight less than 8 ounces. [Read more…]

Kevin VanDam Signature Series Rods

Today’s review is on the new Quantum Kevin VanDam Signature Series Rods. They are a  Bass Pro Shops exclusive and retail for about $80.00. They are not to be confused with the Quantum Tour Kevin VanDam Crankin Rods which are about twice the price at $149.99. [Read more…]

The Energy E101, Quantum Reels Go To The Next Level

I’ve always had an affinity for Quantum fishing reels. I had to replace two reels this season and stared looking at my options for what I was going to use these reels to cast. After narrowing the field down a bit, I went to Bass Pro Shops and spent two hours looking at all the reels that I had selected and of course talking to the salesman all to decide which reels I was going to purchase. I settled on the Energy in the left hand retrieve and have now had and been using them for the last nine months. [Read more…]