Joining the Ballistick series for 2026 is the new 100ML.
In this article, we’ll break down what it was built for—and where it shines.

Heavy angling pressure. Tiny bait. A tide with very little push—.
When the surf gets tough, lure size and presentation naturally shift toward finesse.

Ballistick 100ML was developed for exactly those situations—a “Medium-Light (ML) surf finesse model” built to let you fish with precision and still make fish commit.

Let’s start with the core specs, then unpack the design intent behind the blank.

✅ Key Specs

・Lure : 6–40g
・Line : PE #0.6–1.5
・Length: 3065 mm
・Closed length: 1564 mm
・Rod weight: 166g
・Sections: 2pcs
・Carbon content: 99.6%
・Guides: SiC-S titanium-framed K-guides + titanium-framed RV guide (Fuji)
・Reel seat: DPS18 (Fuji)

Note: “PE” is a braid size system commonly used in Japan/Asia. Actual breaking strength varies by brand, so treat it as a size class rather than a fixed lb-test.

 

Until now, the Ballistick lineup has offered two dedicated surf models.

“1010MH” — tuned for power and distance
“106M-MH” — built with versatility for a wide range of surf beaches

The new “100ML” is built around smaller lures, designed to pick up on subtle changes in bottom contour and tidal flow—and turn those small cues into committed bites. In tough conditions, it becomes a true go-to surf rod.

And while it’s an ML power class, it’s not simply a rod with power “dialed down.” For anglers who fish with intent, 100ML becomes a clear weapon if you:

・Want to read structure and “call your shots” on shallow, gently sloping surf beaches
・Build around small plugs to jigheads, and still want to get fish to eat in tough conditions
・Focus on flatfish as your main target, while staying composed when an unexpected big fish shows up

Sensitivity to accurately read changes in tidal flow and structure
Control to work smaller lures exactly as you imagine

With those two elements combined, the goal isn’t just “cast far”—it’s to create a bite at range.

That’s what the 100ML was made for.

 

The primary field envisioned for the 100ML is the shallow, gently sloping surf. At first glance these beaches can look featureless, but in reality the “fish-holding pieces” are scattered everywhere.

The angle of the break, small rises and depressions on the slope, changes in bottom hardness, and spots where the current forms—those small differences are what separate consistent catches from blank days. That’s the harshness—and the appeal—of shallow surf fishing.

100ML was built to run this process with higher repeatability: Find → dial in → make them eat.
It emphasizes the ability to feel changes in structure and tide, and the precision to run a lure through the exact line you’ve identified.

Distance is still a given—but the point is not to “win” with casting alone. 100ML is designed to build a bite at range—. That mindset is the core of this rod.

Of course, surf conditions vary widely by region: fast-moving water, long-period swells, steep beach breaks, deep troughs—every coast has its own character. Rather than being an ultra-specialized niche rod, 100ML is balanced as a bite-focused surf model you can confidently bring to surf zones nationwide.

Even when the field changes, you can keep the same mindset—read the beach, then run the right line—and stay in control. That versatility is one of its strengths.

 

The main targets are hirame (Japanese flounder) and magochi (flathead)—classic surf flatfish.
At the same time, surf fishing is never limited to one species. Depending on bait and timing, unexpected fish are always in the mix.

That’s why the 100ML maintains a refined, finesse-capable feel while still delivering the recovery and power you want once a fish is hooked.
It’s built to keep you confident when something bigger than expected eats.

Another key focus is keeping fish pinned.
With no unnecessary “stiff hit” in the blank, the rod loads smoothly through the whole length and stays connected through sudden runs and head shakes.
The result is a line-friendly, forgiving blank that helps reduce break-offs and pulled hooks.

Finesse presentations for flatfish—backed by the composure to handle a surprise big one. That balance is exactly what the 100ML aims for.

 

While the 100ML covers the core lure range for surf fishing, your tackle balance can shift it toward either finesse and feel or extra fighting insurance. Here are two simple reference setups.

✅ Finesse-Focused Setup

💡 Recommended reel size: 4000 class
Light, responsive, and well balanced for sensitivity—ideal for getting the most out of the 100ML’s control.

💡 Recommended line: PE #0.8
A strong balance of distance and strength, while staying manageable when you need to fish with precision. In wind and surf, it’s also easier to manage line and work the near-shore break effectively.

 

✅ Strong Setup for Surprise Big Fish

💡 Recommended reel size: 5000 class to SW 4000 class
A 5000-size spool can improve line release and offer a distance advantage in some conditions. An “SW 4000” class reel provides more cranking power and extra confidence when you’re forced into a hard fight.

💡 Recommended line: PE #1.0–1.2
Helps maintain casting distance while adding strength headroom—useful when there’s a real chance of larger fish (including pelagics) showing up in the wash.

 

Ballistick 100ML is an ML-class surf finesse rod built to create a “make-them-eat” scenario by reading bottom changes and subtle shifts in tidal flow—especially on shallow surf beaches.

Rather than relying on distance alone, it gives you control at range: adjust depth and speed, run the right line, and repeat the process with high consistency.

Don’t stop at “finding” the pattern—finish the sequence: “hit the line, make them commit.”
That’s the surf model the 100ML was designed to be.