Does anyone know of a graphite rod specifically designed for running deep diving crank baits?

I am not sure what your price range is but the Dobyns 805cb rm is designed for deep cranks and is the best I have used. If 8'0" is too long they also make a 765cb in graphite as well. Let me know if you'd like more specifics.

Thanks a lot. I will definitely take a look at those.

Shimano Crucial. I have one that I use for nearly all of my cranks and it's awesome. It's actually made with TC4 which is graphite with a layer of glass to give it a parabolic type action. Haven't lost a crank bait fish since I bought it.