I am looking at getting a new rod for squarebills and lipless cranks. I am trying to decide between the Dobyns KD 735CB, Phenix X series X10, or the G Loomis E6X 845C. Not sure what one to go for an unfortunately there aren't any shops near me that I can go to to get my hands on them. Any advise or other suggestions?

1 hour ago, Brutal_boost said:

G Loomis E6X 845C

thats your best choice, At least if it was me I would go for this one.

13 minutes ago, ATA said:

thats your best choice, At least if it was me I would go for this one.

A G Loomis was always my first choice once I got into the $200 rod market. However I started hearing some people saying they have went down in quality and that got me a little concerned.

I have the Kaden 735CB. It’s well balanced, good sensitivity and good moderate action with power. It loads up great with 3/8 to 5/8 so it brings a lot of baits into play.  It reminds me of my Champion 705CB but has that additional  length.  I really like it.

845C every time

Putting together a set or quiver of cranking rods was the goal. I have three of the Phenix composite X series (X-14T, X-13 and X-12) rods. I wanted the longer options for a bit more casting distance, and may still get an X-9 for the smallest crankbaits to round out the set.

 

To me, while the Dobyns rods generally feel good, I usually find something else that feels a little better. They are almost always in contention, but just haven't quite found the top spot for me to throw down for any particular one. JMHO, and YMMV for your own very good reasons. A rod that works for me, may not be your best choice and vice-versa.

Phenix was the premier bass rods in the 80’-90’s until the Detzels totally screwed up the company and sold to off shore company.

FYI ALF is having a good Dobyns rod sale now!

Tom

27 minutes ago, WRB said:

Phenix was the premier bass rods in the 80’-90’s until the Detzels totally screwed up the company and sold to off shore company.

FYI ALF is having a good Dobyns rod sale now!

Tom

Mind sharing what ALF stands for? I can't figure it out for the life of me lol.

1 minute ago, Brutal_boost said:

Mind sharing what ALF stands for? I can't figure it out for the life of me lol.

*** Fishing

PM sent

IN 60 YEARS of fishing, I have broken exactly 2 rods. BOTH PHENIX. BOTH within a YEAR of purchase and both within the last week.

I just sent in and am waiting for a new IM which I understand is backordered, but have since shelled out another $179 to a local sports shop to replace it.

I have fished and owned 50 rods includng $500 St. Croix to &10 Zebco and have never broken a rod aor need quide replacement. 

Spoke to Phenix they admit they are made in China, as many are, but said unless it's in the handle they want me to pay $19 shippind, $60 replacement. $20 shipping, so close to $100. I'd rather buy a Dobyns Colt for $99 and get better service and I'm certain better rods. 

For crankbait rods my #1 choice is the Judge blank by Rainshadow (you will have to build or have built.

After that:

St. Croix. 

Loomis

 

Everything else below that in whatever order you want it doesn't matter. Although I do like the offerings from ALX and sometimes I'll roll with Dobyn's. 

 

I used to use Phenix rods years ago when I first got back into bass fishing. I went all out and bought 25 of the M1.  6 broke that first season. I got them replaced and sold them all on Craigslist.