Be Sticky Trout Hiro Motoyama Model
JDM baitcast trout finesse series for mountain streams, 1–7 g, 4'3"–5'7"
- Models
- 6
- Length
- 4.3'–5.6'
- Type
- Casting
The Be Sticky Trout (BST) Hiro Motoyama Model is a JDM trout bait-finesse casting series developed by Hiroyuki Motoyama, a Smith field staffer. It is one of the few Japanese trout rods built explicitly for baitcasting reels instead of spinning, the concept (yamai bait finesse) applies baitcast tackle to mountain-stream trout fishing to achieve pinpoint casts under cover and into tight pockets that spinning gear cannot reach. Serves are stream trout (amago, yamame, iwana) in rocky, brushy headwater streams.
Blank is 30T + 24T graphite laminate (EXS 3-piece models add a 15T outer layer). Unsanded finish. Action is moderate across all models; lure range is consistently 1–7 g across the entire series. Guides are Fuji titanium frame SiC throughout, small-diameter settings to reduce weight. Reel seat is Fuji ACS, matching low-profile baitcast reels. The series includes a high-visibility colour sight-top section on some models so the angler can track the blank tip against foliage backgrounds.
BST-EXS models are 3-piece for portability (packs to 55–60 cm); BST-HM models are 2-piece. Six models: EXS sub-series in 4'3", 4'5", 4'7" (3-piece, compact) and HM sub-series in 5'3", 5'5", 5'7" (2-piece). All casting (baitcast), all UL/Light moderate action. Shorter EXS models are designed for packability and ultra-tight stream scenarios; longer HM models trade packing convenience for casting reach and lure speed.
Deeper Dive
A closer look at notable models.
Shortest model, 3-piece pack at 55 cm. Designed for the tightest, most confined headwater streams where even 4'5" is too long. Release point mechanics are critical at this length, bait finesse concept demands precise timing.
2-piece 3-section variant of the EXS line, packing at 60 cm. Slightly longer reach than the 43 and 45 while still optimised for backcountry carry. Noted by Smith as suitable for anglers who want to cast from restricted back-space positions.
Longest model; Smith recommends for anglers needing extra distance or those fishing more open stream sections. 2-piece, 87.5 cm packed. According to Smith product copy, suitable for those who want equivalent distance to a spinning rod but retain BFS precision.
Rods in this series
| Model | Length | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| BST-EXS43UL/C | 4'3" | UL | — |
| BST-EXS45UL/C | 4'5" | UL | — |
| BST-EXS47UL/C3 | 4'7" | UL | — |
| BST-HM53UL/C | 5'3" | UL | — |
| BST-HM55UL/C | 5'5" | UL | — |
| BST-HM57UL/C | 5'7" | UL | — |