I am looking for a high end rod to pair up with a Shimano Stradic FI 2500 and have been looking closely at the St. Croix legend elite and extreme spining rods as well as G. Loomis IMX spinning rods. I am looking to create a versatile combo to fish plastics (senkos), small crankbaits, etc. Most likely it will be a 7' m power rod with fast action. If you know of any better rods on the market let me know. thanks

My main rod for weightless soft plastics is an ES70MF.

I also have an EC70MHF for 3/4 oz Ledgebuster and

Mattlures Baby Bass. The Legend Elite Series is quite

comparable to the G. Loomis IMX series. However, the

power ratings are not. St. Croix M = MH (843) G. Loomis.

8-)

So, roadwarrior, does this mean that St. Croix rods generally run more powerful or G. Loomis runs lighter power? I had never heard of this before.

I think G. Loomis rods are slightly lighter than their power

rating would indicate. Although I am very happy with my

ES70MF, I think you should compare it with the SJR843S

and see what you think.

8-)

To confirm what RW said...  a H Loomis is like a MH St. Croix...  example: the MBR844 would be comparable to a **70MHF in whichever series you want to compare.  (I haven't owned any St. Croix spinning blanks so I can only confirm this in casting rods)

not to get too off topic how would shimano ratings compare to g. loomis and st. croix ratings. crucial rods specifically if necessary. thanks