Hello!

I am looking to add another spinning rod to the arsenal and would like to see what you guys think. It will mostly be used for launching tube jigs and some not so finesse techniques for smallmouth. I live in northern MN and this will also double as a walleye rod used for jigging raps and heavier 1/2-3/4oz jigs when the current is moving on Rainy. I would prefer something in the 7'-7'6 range with a little bit of power and looking to spend around $200-250. 

 

I am also a guy who likes to "try all the flavors" so would be looking for a brand or lineup I do not already have. Current lineup includes Loomis NRX, Daiwa Steez AGS, Shimano Expride and Poison Adrena, Kistler Helium 3, a few Elliot rods, Fenwick Techna, older St. Croix Premier and a Dobyns Fury. 

 

Rods that I have been looking into include Megabass Levante, St. Croix Avid X and possibly something by Dobyns. What else should I consider?

 

Thanks in advance for any recommendations

How about the new St Croix Victory series (the Avid X replacement line)?

Boomstick-

 

Looks like they make a 7'3 M XF that might be right up my alley. Have you or anyone else had a chance to check these out in person?

4 minutes ago, Kann18 said:

Boomstick-

 

Looks like they make a 7'3 M XF that might be right up my alley. Have you or anyone else had a chance to check these out in person?

I will admit I have not, but the reviews have been really good so far. Even the fit and finish, at least on early models is supposed to be better than far more expensive St. Croix rods.

Good to know. I will have to add it to my list to check out. Thanks

I’m like you in that I can’t stay married to one brand.  I just ordered a rod from Alpha Angler.  A little more obscure company but I have heard great things so I had to try.

3 hours ago, Boomstick said:

How about the new St Croix Victory series (the Avid X replacement line)?

The Avid X uses a different blank, different eyes and handle configuration.  Im not a big fan of the Avid X myself.  The Victory is almost like a Mojo Bass in the sense that its got a great blank with inexpensive components to keep the cost and weight down.  If SC starts using SC3+ for the Avids I wouldn't be surprised to see a redesign of the Avid X.  

3 hours ago, Kann18 said:

Boomstick-

 

Looks like they make a 7'3 M XF that might be right up my alley. Have you or anyone else had a chance to check these out in person?

It would be great for tubes and wacky rigs.  The ML XF throws small JBs really well, but the XF don't have a big tip section.  If you dont have your drag set right you can lose a lot of fish on trebles that you wouldn't with a softer rod.  The 7'3 felt like it was just more powerful slightly longer version of the ML.  If you plan to use baits heavier then 1/2 you would be better off with a different rod IMO.  The Enforcer may be the way to go.

GetFishorDieTryin-

 

Thanks for the input. You think the Levante Enforcer has a bit more backbone? I would not cast lures over 1/2oz often, mostly vertically jigging them. 

I highly recommend you at least look at the Daiwa KAGE. 7’ medium all around it throws 1/2 oz jerkbait’s like a dream down to a weightless wacky senko. And it’s very sensitive.

 

3 hours ago, GetFishorDieTryin said:

The Avid X uses a different blank, different eyes and handle configuration.  Im not a big fan of the Avid X myself.  The Victory is almost like a Mojo Bass in the sense that its got a great blank with inexpensive components to keep the cost and weight down.  If SC starts using SC3+ for the Avids I wouldn't be surprised to see a redesign of the Avid X.  

I'm aware, I just thought that the Victory was ultimately intended to replace the Avid X line. Did I mix that up?

1 hour ago, Born 2 fish said:

I highly recommend you at least look at the Daiwa KAGE. 7’ medium all around it throws 1/2 oz jerkbait’s like a dream down to a weightless wacky senko. And it’s very sensitive.

 

Yeah I have had a chance to play around with the Kage. Seems like a nice rod and a good alternative for guys who dont like the EVA on the tat elites

Daiwa TATULA 2018 with cork handle 150.00 can't be beat. Tough as nails, light as a feather and extremely sensitive. 

Coming from someone who isn’t a St Croix fan the Victory series spinning rods are impressive. 

VC73MXF is 7’3” medium extra fast spinning rod with premium cork handle design that I like. 

Tom

On 4/18/2021 at 10:03 AM, Kann18 said:

Boomstick-

 

Looks like they make a 7'3 M XF that might be right up my alley. Have you or anyone else had a chance to check these out in person?

 

I have that rod.  It may be a tad light for what you're looking for.  Even though it's a medium it almost feels like a medium light compared to my other st croix rods.  I've been throwing 1/16oz jigs on it

7 hours ago, uglyasheck said:

Daiwa TATULA 2018 with cork handle 150.00 can't be beat. Tough as nails, light as a feather and extremely sensitive. 

I do like the actions on the tatulas and kages. Bought the gf a tatula xt and fuego combo last year and have fished with it a bit. Nice rod for $99. 

2 hours ago, Allen Der said:

 

I have that rod.  It may be a tad light for what you're looking for.  Even though it's a medium it almost feels like a medium light compared to my other st croix rods.  I've been throwing 1/16oz jigs on it

Hmm good to know. Would you be comfortable throwing a 1/4 or 3/8oz tube on it?

3 hours ago, Kann18 said:

 

Hmm good to know. Would you be comfortable throwing a 1/4 or 3/8oz tube on it?

1/4 should be fine, not sure about 3/8.  I think you'd be better off with a medium in any other st croix line.