Fishing Rod Database

Seabass model

Japanese shore seabass spinning rods in two grades: FCS entry-level and TD1 1G-grade, 8'6"–10'6"

Models
13
Length
8.5'–10.5'
Type
Spinning

The Major Craft Seabass model batch in this lineup covers two series: the Firstcast (FCS) and the Tidrift 1G (TD1). Both target Japanese-style shore seabass (suzuki) fishing, lure casting from beaches, estuaries, bays, jetties, and surf, but sit at different grade levels within Major Craft's hierarchy. The FCS models are the entry-level Firstcast line, while the TD1 models are the 1G-grade Tidrift, a step up in construction and price. FCS blanks use medium-modulus carbon as the primary material, producing a forgiving, user-friendly flex suited to beginners and recreational anglers.

TD1 blanks are built with a performance-oriented taper design prioritizing casting distance and lure operability, with Fuji K-frame guides and a grip shape designed for balance over long sessions. Both series use regular-fast (RF) action taper across all models. All rods are 2-piece. The 13 models split six FCS and seven TD1 models. FCS models run 8'6"–10' in L, ML, and M power, covering lure weights from 7–23 g (L) through 15–42 g (M). TD1 models extend to 10'6" and step from an L/ML dual-taper 8'6" model through ML and M powers, with lure weights ranging 5–28 g on the lightest to 10–45 g on the M-class 10' and 10'6" models.

The TD1-862L/ML is a dual-rated model with a light tip transitioning to a medium-light belly for wide lure range versatility.


Deeper Dive

A closer look at notable models.

TD1-862L/ML Spinning · 8'6" · L · RF action

Dual-rated blank: L-action tip for small minnows and jigheads (5–7 g), ML belly/butt for 20–28 g vibrations and larger plugs. Suits compact harbor, small river, and bay-area work.

FCS-862L Spinning · 8'6" · L · RF action

Lightest FCS model. Handles 7–23 g lures for lighter seabass game, black seabream on rubber jigs, flatfish on jigheads, and light coastal jigging. Useful across bay, estuary, and river scenarios.

FCS-962M Spinning · 9'6" · M · RF action

Heaviest FCS model. Rated 15–42 g for large seabass plugs, light shore jigging for mackerel and sago, and surf applications where casting distance and heavier lures are needed.

TD1-962ML Spinning · 9'6" · ML · RF action

Core ML model in the TD1 series. Designed for wading in wide tidal flats and estuary mouths, maximizing casting distance on 7–35 g lures. The smooth bend curve optimizes distance performance per Major Craft.

TD1-1002M Spinning · 10' · M · RF action

10' M-power TD1 for large rivers, surf, and low rocky shorelines. Rated 10–45 g and handles 12 cm class minnows through 40 g-plus big plugs on a steady regular-taper blank.

FCS-1002M Spinning · 10' · M · RF action

Longest FCS model. Extra length prioritizes casting distance on large open beaches or river mouths. Same lure range as FCS-962M but the 10' blank reaches further into flow and surf.

TD1-1062M Spinning · 10'6" · M · RF action

Longest and most powerful TD1. Designed for elevated jetties, rough surf, and conditions requiring extra reach and wind-fighting ability. Same lure range as TD1-1002M but more blank leverage.


Rods in this series

Model Length Power Price
TD1-862L/ML 8'6" L
FCS-862L 8'6" L
FCS-862ML 8'6" ML Buy on Amazon
TD1-902ML 9' ML
FCS-902ML 9' ML
TD1-902L 9' L
FCS-962M 9'6" M Buy on Amazon
TD1-962ML 9'6" ML
TD1-962M 9'6" M
FCS-962ML 9'6" ML Buy on Amazon
TD1-1002M 10' M
FCS-1002M 10' M
TD1-1062M 10'6" M