I need help deciding what model to get to replace my Avid 7'0" ML Fast rod that I just broke...

LTBS66MLF  6'6"  / ML / Fast / 1 piece / 4-10#line / lure weight:1/8-3/8

LTBS70MF  7'  /      M / Fast / 1 piece / 6-12#line / lure weight: 3/16-5/8  

I am looking at these two rods because most of my fishing is river wading for smallmouth and I mainly use flukes and shakey heads. I felt my Avid 7'0" ML F was very good for both of these applications, but I just don't know if a M F would do better because I haven't used one...I would like to stick with the ML action because I think it's more fun to catch smallmouth on a lighter rod, although I could probably throw a greater range of lures with the M rod...Do you think going to a Medium power rod would make me lose the fun of fighting feisty smallies on light tackle? or is it worth being able to throw more lures even though the ML throws flukes and shakeys (what I mostly use in the river) perfectly well?

Basically, I could go either way, that's what makes choosing so hard. I'm leaning a little toward the ML just for the light tackle aspect, though.

agh! Help me make up my mind guys!

As a rod builder, impo because the Avid blank is a little thicker walled blank (stiffer), and the LE is a lot thinner I would go with the M instead of the ML that you had in the Avid blank. This is derived from feeling both blanks without any guides mounted...If you could feel both rods finished in a store rack it would really help in your final decision..

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!!

Yeah, I really wish there was a store near me that carries both rods but I'd have to make a long drive to get to one...I didn't know about the difference in stiffness, thanks. Do you know approximately the diameter of these rods? Would an Avid in ML be similar in diameter to a LT in M?

nobody else have any recommendations or experience with the Legend Tournaments and Avids?

For the applications you mentioned, I prefer one that you did not mention: LTBS68MXF. My fishing partner has this exact rod and I have it in Legend Elite. I really like the XF action for flukes and shakey head.

FD

yeah, I was looking at that one as well. It might sound stupid, but I gotta admit, I like to see my rod bend hard when I have a fish on. I was afraid that the stouter XF action might not allow for me to see that bend in the rod when I fight a fish.

I know this isn't the question you asked, but can't you use the warranty to replace the broken rod?  Have you contacted St Croix to see if they want to help?  Even if you Bill Dance the rod I would contact St Croix.  They frequently want to replace broken rods just to buy loyalty.

get the teaser ... its the 7ft med fast LTB rod ... great stick .... it would be great for smallys ... if i had to go with a shorter stick id get the 6ft6 med fast ... thats if you plan on fishing tight rivers where a shorter stick would really excell