I am looking to buy a new drop shot rod under $200

I would like a ML fast or extra-fast action

I usually fish 1/8oz or 1/4oz depending on the depth

I rarely fish more than 30 ft deep

I was looking at the st .croix, diawa, and shimano

For the price I have been impressed with the Ike series drop shot rod. Light weight, sensitive, and pretty reasonable. I think I paid 120. I did have the first one break but took a photo two emails and a phone call and I had a brand new rod for $5. The customer service blew me away. I highly recommend the rod, the reason it broke is I tried to boat flip and totally messed it up and haven’t tried it since. 

Seems like you’re looking at the right stuff now you just need to pick?

Has anybody used the St.Croix Avid X ML spinning rod? I know that the avid x has the same blank as the mojo bass but the the avid is made in the USA and has a better finish on it. Is it worth the extra $70 or should I just get the Mojo bass?

You will get micro guides with the avid x which will make it lighter than the mojo. I suggest going medium instead of medium light. 

I'm pretty much a St. Croix guy. I'm sure if you handle enough of the Avids in ML & M you'll find the feel your looking for. 

 

But it for what it's worth I also  fish with the 6'10" ML IKE Abu Rod. I like it a lot. I fish lighter drop shot, split shot, t rigs and Ned rigs with it. I would recommend you look at it. But it has to feel right for you. You have to consider the reel also. Pair whatever to make it feel right. You can get the IKE Rods under $100 now. 

Take a look at the Shimano zodias line of rods. They have a couple nice light spinning rods that will do just what you want them to and they look good doing it with the jdm styling. 

15 hours ago, Jared Herman said:

Has anybody used the St.Croix Avid X ML spinning rod?

No, but I have three original Avid MLXF rods in assorted lengths and love them.  They are paired with Shimano CI4 reels and 6# Tatsu or 15# braid and leader.

A lot of guys are adimately oppose to split grips. Some don't want the full cork. I fish St. Croix that are both. It means nothing to me. You'll find at least one SC you'll like but it may not be necessary to spend it to find something you like.  

Out of all your three brand choices I'd go with the St. Croix.

 

I love my Avids, and I'd recommend it over the Mojo Bass.

I'm using a Fenwick Elitech Bass 6'10 ML/XF paired with a Sedona 1000. Braid 15lbs with a 6' fluoro leader.