ETnbasser

Thanks RW Exactly!!! I feel like the best thing expensive rods is weight, or lack thereof. If i, not getting any younger, can fish longer without fatiguing then it’s worth it to me. But if I could find the perfect rod for $50 I’d buy it.

I was involved in a conversation this weekend regarding what technique should be your absolute best/most expensive rod. I was completely shutdown when I suggested it should be the technique that you a) fish most frequently and b) enjoy the most. The general consensus was it should ALWAYS be bottom contact!! I said “ what if I don’t fish jigs or t-rig as much?” They said doesn’t matter, should still be your best rod hands down. I had to walk away on that note. I always see statements in forums saying “don’t spend money on a spinnerbait rod, or a topwater rod, or jerkbait etc” Well if one fished one of these techniques 70% of the time because one enjoyed it why shouldn’t they get the best rod they could for that technique? So, what technique is YOUR best rod? Not interested in what specific rod, but what technique. Most of my rods are approximately the same cost but I am looking into higher end for spinnerbaits, topwater and crankbaits because that’s what I fish most.

Thanks for this information. I’m stick debating on which to get. Wish more selection was available locally.

I was literally just trying to look at St Croix’s website but it’s terrible for real information other than specs. They used to have a very informative website with technique references etc. Thanks

I’m currently searching for a crankbait rod that’s missing from my arsenal. I need one for baits up to Deep x300 or 5XD (15’ range). I’ve been looking at but haven’t put my hands on any of these and am wanting some user input (none are available locally). IMX-Pro 845c CBR IMX-Pro 857c CBR Doblyns DC705CB Doblyns DC706CB Expride 72MHG Megabass Valkyrie 71MH While cranking is my priority for this rod, I know the bottom 2 are glass but I’ve been told they both fairly versatile. I don’t have any input about the others. I don’t want a broomstick or a tip heavy rod, just got rid of a Dobyns DC805CB for this reason. I just found that rod too unwieldy, granted it was an 8’er. I appreciate any information that you can provide. Paul

While I agree today’s glass (composites like the Zodias rods) is much better I can’t agree they’re more sensitive than graphite. However, that being said, sensitively is perceived differently by everyone since it’s not a measurable data. It’s like beauty (although many try to measure it as a 10!!). I personally think my graphite Expride 610m is more sensitive than my Expride 610m glass. The glass is definitely stronger though.

Thanks for the input and heads-up.

Are the lure ratings on the IMX-Pros correct? Example, the 812c JBR jerkbait rod claims to be a medium with lure rating of 1/4 to 3/8 ?. Is this correct? If so then their jerkbait rod would be overpowered with the most popular jerkbait out there, Vision 110!! I know these ratings are just a guide line but I’ve found most of the rods I own typically have a sweet spot less than the high end of stated rating. I also thought a 2 rating is more of a ML based on their rating system. Thanks, Paul

I just bought this exact rod, just waiting to open new reel under tree to fish it. I did put a reel on it and tied on a 3/4oz spinnerbait with trailer (total=1oz) and it seems to have the same amount of flex as a Megabass MH and an older All-Star MH, both spinnerbait rods rated to 1oz. I does appear to shut down and get into the backbone quicker than the other 2. Honestly it feels closer to MH or MH+ than H. One more thing, it is crazy light compared to the other 2!!! This is part of what helped my decision to buy it.

Wow! Been a minute since I’ve seen those. Used to have several. They were the first lefties I bought when I made the switch. Wished I’d have kept a couple, along with the Calcutta CT-51s I had. Still kicking myself over those.

I’m not particularly sold on the big knobs and may see if I can get replacement gen 2 knobs for it. I’m going to have to give it a chance first, I may end up liking them. This will be my first Lews. I have been really looking at them lately though. These clearance deals are crazy, just shows us they can be sold cheaper!!

I’ve got one under the tree. It’s the first gen model with the bigger knobs on the handle. Apparently got the last one on clearance for $199. I typically fish Daiwa but figured I’d give it a try for $200 off. Went back to order another but the link was gone. In winding it a feel times it feels smooth and quiet. Im pairing it with a Phenix MX rod that has some purple hues in it. Felt pretty good on the rod for the minute I had it on there.

Coming from GA & SC to east TN I find most ramps here stink. Most landings have no docks or docks you have to walk across dirt/mud to get to. The one I frequent most has docks but they are a ways off (part of marina) and require you to block half of 2 lane ramp for a several minutes to dock boat and walk back to truck. Guess I got spoiled on lakes in the states DNR actually keep up with.

+1 for Mustang HIT. Had a full bodied Mustang similar to what John Crews uses but found it rode up too much.

Morning, Is anyone familiar with this rod? How does it handle heavier SBs (1oz)? Is it good for chatterbaits and/or smaller squarebills? Thanks, Paul

Keep an eye on Academy for the Edge boxes, I bought them on sale at nearly half off a while back. Thought they were getting rid of them but they restocked at regular price so I reckon it was just a sale. Thanks for the insight into the big bags of silica packs, definitely going to grab some.

I use original Mega Strike some but just bought a bottle of BaitFuel yesterday to try. I’ve heard good things about it.

I used the Terex rod you are looking at last year and found it to be on the flimsy side like the Triad you have. IMO, it always seemed like it could break at any moment as well, tip was super thin. Glad I only paid $35 for it when Academy was clearancing them out. I traded it for a Powell a couple months ago and glad I did. Hope this helps.

I spoke with Randall Tharp at great length at the Ark Rods booth Sunday. He seems like a great, down to earth sort of guy! Also got one of his line of rods, The One Eyed Jack, can’t wait to try it out. Got a deal on some Simms gloves and rain gear toward the end of the day. Got several free hoodies, rather my son did, good thing we wear the same size. Met Forrest Wood at the Vexxus boat booth. Those seem like a good aluminum/fiberglass hybrid. He was telling me his grandson is the founder, hence why he was there. Spoke briefly to KVD at TH Marine booth. Literally bumped into Jimmy Houston wandering the isles. Overall a good experience for our first Classic Expo.