Offshorestick BOW DEVIL
Offshore spinning series from inshore minnow work to GT and tuna jigging, PE 2–10
- Models
- 6
- Length
- 7.0'–8.5'
- Type
- Spinning
The Offshorestick BOW DEVIL is Smith (Japan) Ltd.' s dedicated offshore spinning series covering inshore saltwater through bluewater jigging and popping applications. Serves include amberjack (kampachi), yellowtail (hamachi), bluefin tuna, GT, and large grouper depending on model. The series is specifically designed for anglers who want controlled casting and fighting performance, the name alludes to a 'bow devil' style of braced fighting for heavy fish.
The smallest model still expects PE #2 braid. Blank construction is multi-layer carbon with 1K and UDO graphite composite layering. The lighter three models (S70ML, S78ML, S86M) use a center-cut 2-piece design; the heavier models (S86MH, S86H, S86XH) use a grip-joint 2-piece design with an assist grip system to reduce angler fatigue during prolonged fights, Smith's fogrip (fore-grip assist) leverages a larger secondary grip to help resist force without sacrificing angler body position.
All guides are Fuji SiC, with model-appropriate frame types (K, MNSG). Six spinning models: S70ML (7'), S78ML (7'8"), S86M/MH/H/XH (all 8'6"). Three lighter models use PE up to 2–3; three heavier grip-joint models run PE 4–10 and lure weights from 30–220 g. The step from S86M to S86MH is a significant construction and power jump, not just a minor graduation.
Deeper Dive
A closer look at notable models.
Shortest, lightest model (147 g rod weight); handles minnows, light pencils, and blades up to 40 g on PE up to #2. Serves sea bass, yellowtail, and amberjack in bay-area scenarios. Center-cut 2-piece.
Stepping up to 60 g / PE 2.5; handles broad-ranging inshore and near-shore work including medium poppers and large minnows. Smith recommends pairing with S70ML for minnow work and S78ML for jig-heavy presentations.
Rated to 180 g / PE 6–8; handles heavy diving pencils and large poppers for GT and large bluefin. At 460 g rod weight, heaviest in the series, demands physical commitment during extended sessions.
First of the grip-joint assist-grip models. Handles diving pencils to 200 mm and jig minnows up to 100 g on PE 4–6. Serves hamachi, GT, and large amberjack. Rod weight 358 g, a working tool, outside the finesse choice lane.
XH model for 180 mm+ diving pencils, heavy poppers, and large sinking plugs on PE 6–10. Made for GT, large bluefin, and kinkurou (large yellowtail) in open water. 408 g rod weight.
Rods in this series
| Model | Length | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| OBD-S70ML | 7' | MHI | — |
| OBD-S78ML | 7'8" | HI | — |
| OBD-S86H | 8'6" | XXXHI | — |
| OBD-S86M | 8'6" | HI | — |
| OBD-S86MH | 8'6" | HI | — |
| OBD-S86XH | 8'6" | XXXHI | — |
I Power rating inferred from the lure / line-weight recommendation — not specified by the manufacturer.