So I'm looking for an Alabama rod and having trouble with making my decision. I know 7'+ and heavy/extra heavy. But what brand. I've been reading reviews till my eyes hurt, then I think I make up my mind and find a hand full of bad reviews and start over. Trying not to spend over $100 cause I won't be using it that often. So help please. My current rods are 7'falcon MH, 6'6" st.Croix M, 7' Berkeley im6 MH, and a 6'6" Fenwick hmx spinning

A lot depends on how you have the Alabama Rig set up. I fish with a light rig:

Outside arms: Gamakatsu 4/0 Offset Worm Hooks rigged with LFT Live Magic Shad (no weight).

Inside arm: Johnson Silver Minnow.

 

With this arrangement you don't need a dedicated rod, I think your 7' Falcon would be just fine.

 

 

 

 

Berkley has a rod in their lineup that is specifically for the umbrella rig.It has worked fine for me and for 50 bucks can't be beat. If your just starting with the rig and your on a tight budget like I am I highly recommend it. I will give you the specs when i return home.

I recently bought a Denali Jadewood 7'11" XH Flipping rod to throw the A-rig.  Paired it with Garcia Pro Max reel and 50# Sufix 832 Braid. Think it is going to be a good set up.

X's 2 on the Jadewood 7'11flipping/rig rod. I have been throwing it for the last month catching stripers. You can hurl it pretty good with that rod.

I have a Abu veritas schooling rig rod. It's rated for up to 3 oz, so it will give you a lot of opinions on bait size

I use the TFO Tactical Series Mag H  7' 11" rated for 1oz to 6 oz.

It is light weight and won't wear you out casting heavy stuff.

x3 on the denali Jadewood. I throw a bama rig religiously this time of year and I really suggest it. its a really strong rod and handles the rig really well