In the last 6 months I discovered the power of the jig and it's now one of my confidence baits. Now I'm just debating what rod to purchase. As a high school student I've been saving up my money for a while so I want a setup that'll be money well spent. As a member of the high school bass fishing team I've come to enjoy the competitive aspect of bass fishing. Last year my friend and I placed 5th out of 21 boats in a sectional tournament (and we were the only freshmen present!). This year I'd like to step it up and add a 2nd rod to my arsenal (hopefully make it to state).

 

My strength is pitching very accurately and thoroughly fishing an area. So the selling points of a fishing rod for me is the rod balance and sensitivity. 

 

Here are some choices below I'm debating about.

 

St Croix Legend Tournament 7'1" medium heavy power, fast action 

sku: TBC71MHF

$260

 

Kistler Helium 3 7'1" medium heavy power, extra fast action

sku: He3MH71XF

$260

 

Any opinions and/or other rod recommendations will be well appreciated. Thank you.

 

 

If you want balance and sensitivity, the helium wins both. If you're pitching near or in cover, I'd look at a heavy power. The 13 *** is another excellent choice and it's a little less money. With Black Friday deals, you can snag an *** for $185ish. The 7'1" or 7'3" are both good options for jig fishing.

If you want balance and sensitivity, the helium wins both. If you're pitching near or in cover, I'd look at a heavy power. The 13 *** is another excellent choice and it's a little less money. With Black Friday deals, you can snag an *** for $185ish. The 7'1" or 7'3" are both good options for jig fishing.

Thanks for the contribution. I will consider the *** as well.

My jig rod is a Powell Endurance 714. It's a 714 Heavy with an X-fast tip. Rated 1/4-1 oz. Although they are discontinued, you can get one in the Max 3D line for 189.99. Considerably less than what you were going to spend, but still great rods for the price.

What weight jigs and # test and type of line do you plan to use?.

Tom

PS, you might want to consider contacting Gary Dobyn's , explain what you want the rod for, Gary supports young tournament anglers and may help you out.

Gary is a great guy and if you have your competition info you may get a great deal.  I like the dobyns DX rods but there out of your price range.  I have spent more than a little time with a st croix avid and i still use them even though i can afford better.  I also love my legend elite.  I would call gary before anything as i think he may be able to provide you a deal that no one can or will match.  If your on a serious budget you may also consider buying out of the for sale section of this site or tackletour.  I have done a lot of business with the guys there and have had zero problems.  There are a lot of guys always chasing the latest and greatest gear and lightly used gear is all over.

I have the St.Croix you're asking about, it's a sweet rod for finesse jigs but is a little light for anything over 1/2oz IMO. 

I love St. Croix's rods, but even the Tournament is pretty tip heavy.  You can't beat that taper though.  I've never fished with the other one.