I’ve just gotten back into fishing in the last year. Got out of it for about 5-6 years after going to college and starting my career. All my setups were from the mid 2000s. Just wondering if it’s worth it to start upgrading my rods one by one. (Already started upgrading my reels to the Abu Garcia RevoX gen 4 (6.6:1))

 

My setups

1 and 2) Bass Pro Shops Extreme Baitcaster MF 6’6”

 

3) Bass Pro Shops Bionic Blade Baitcaster MF 6’6”

 

4) Bass Pro Shops Bionic Blade Baitcaster MHF 6’6”

 

5) St Croix Premier Spinning Rod MF 6’6” w/Pflueger President 20

 

I’m fishing maybe 3-4 times a month out of my kayak. Is it worth it to upgrade to the St Croix Premier 6’6 or 7’ rods?

Those are the old power grip handles? I cut my teeth on those. I’d keep a few around for bank beating and techniques you don’t need ultimate feedback. The St. Croix premier is an excellent rod, it was my first “nice” rod. When I stepped up from BPS extremes of that era to premiers and acids, the deference to me was big, I never looked back especially for worm and jig fishing. If you prefer more traditional tapers, actions, lengths and handles it’s a good choice. Consider the Avid for a bit more coin for increased feel and crispy actions.

 

Tons of excellent information on here.  When I got back into fishing in 2009, I was upgrading rods from early to mid 60s.    I also went from spinning to baitcast combos.

 

I liked the looks of the Premier that I handled a few years ago at Dick's.  The Mojo line should be more sensitive as the blanks are SCIII whereas the Premier is SCII.  There are many excellent rods at that price range.

 

Personally am a fan of the Tatula rods for a few dollars less than the Premier.  Mine are OGs and I paid a max of $100 for each.  Can't find those deals today.  Word is out on them.

May I suggest the Dobyns Fury line? I think comparatively it would be better than the St. Croixs you’re looking at. Either way, both will do what you need them to. 

It depends on how you like the premier's sensitivity.  IMO they are very sensitive rods, but others may have a different opinion.  I've been using them for jigs and Texas rigs for a few year now.  I also have a 6'6" bionic blade and a 7'0 tourny special that I use for moving baits.  You can't beat those older BPS rods, they are very forgiving.

Don’t overlook the St Croix Triumph. I have the Premier as well and they are very similar except the Triumph is less coin.

 

I love my Avid and Premier but I have more than 1 Triumph. I usually wait until I get a DSG scorecard $10 reward. Combine that with one of their $20 off a $100 spent and I get a brand new Triumph for $70