I am looking to upgrade my shallow crankbait rod. I currently use a medium light rod, it doesn't say what the action is but I believe it would be moderate. I mainly throw around/over grass, no rocks or wood. 2-5 foot divers for the most part.

So, should I go with a classic cranking action (moderate) and maybe go to med heavy power, or do I go to more of a medium power/fast action set up?

Mainly looking for power/action recommendations but feel free to throw your vote in for specific rod (under $150, preferably around $100).

Thanks!

7' Med power, mod action.  Plenty of quality used cranking sticks go on sale on fishing site flea markets.  I'd keep an eye out for a couple months.

Example:

http://www.tackletour.net/TTForums/viewtopic.php?f=43&t=41183

This is a very good shallow cranking rod.  In my opinion, the amount of sensitivity gained in high end rods is not worth the cost for this technique.  I agree that a rod at least 7' and moderate action is the way to go.  I use one of these for shallow cranking. 

http://www.***.com/Shimano_Compre_Crankbait_Casting_Rods_/descpage-SCCCRD.html#

St. Croix Avid AVC70MM

8-)

I go back and forth between a 7' M/Mod and a 6'6 MH/F (HMGs) I like the MH when it's weedy and I might have to really pull them from a snag every once in a while.

This is a very good shallow cranking rod. In my opinion, the amount of sensitivity gained in high end rods is not worth the cost for this technique. I agree that a rod at least 7' and moderate action is the way to go. I use one of these for shallow cranking.

http://www.***.com/Shimano_Compre_Crankbait_Casting_Rods_/descpage-SCCCRD.html#

Me too.  I mainly fish dt-4's and it is perfect.

Depends on the size of the bait.  Either an Avid AVC70MM or AVC70MHM.  For lipless, I use an LTBC70MF.

Thanks guys. Appreciate the help.

I use a St. Croix Mojo Bass 7' MH MOD It's got great sensitivity and a soft tip but has plenty of backbone.

I only use larger cranks so this rod is perfect. Even caught a few 15lb+ stripers and I couldnt believe the power this rod has. 8-) Oh yeah, priced right at $100 with 5 yr warranty

I use a St. Croix Mojo Bass 7' MH MOD It's got great sensitivity and a soft tip but has plenty of backbone.

I was checking this one out at Dick's, it actually didn't seem to be a true mh, that was the only problem I could see. But if it handles the way you say, I guess I can put it back on the short list!

Thanks!

Depends on the size of the bait.

I throw mostly smaller size cranks, probably 1/4 ouncers. Do have a couple larger ones, though, so I guess I need to consider those. I would like to go MH, just to be sure I can turn them all away from cover, but most of the rods that are MH seem to be rated for heavier lures (heavier than 1/4) and I want to be able to get good casting distance with the lighter baits. Guess a good real would help.   

Depends on the size of the bait.

I throw mostly smaller size cranks, probably 1/4 ouncers. Do have a couple larger ones, though, so I guess I need to consider those. I would like to go MH, just to be sure I can turn them all away from cover, but most of the rods that are MH seem to be rated for heavier lures (heavier than 1/4) and I want to be able to get good casting distance with the lighter baits. Guess a good real would help.

Abu Garcia Vendetta --

VTC66-6 (1187726)      12-20       3/16-5/8      6ft. 6in.      Medium Heavy      $79.95

3 year warranty

Thank you.  Come again!

I know 7 ft rods are the standard for cranking, but that's only because extra casting distance allows the bait to reach max depth. If you are throwing mostly shallow cranks (like me) you might want to go to a shorter rod. For example, I have a 6'6" Avid Cranking rod for the shallow/mid divers, and a 6 footer for throwing really shallow baits like Mann's Baby 1-minus lures. It is MUCH easier to get pinpoint accuracy with a short rod, and where I fish alot (Potomac) sometimes you need to hit exactly that right opening in the grass. Just something else to consider.