Do you find you get a better action on jerkbaits like x raps and lucky crafts with a stiffer rod than a normal crankbait stick? What action or rod would you use?

My dedicated jerkbait rod is a St. Croix Avid AVC66MF which has

a soft tip. The size and stiffness of the rod allows me to "work"

jerkbaits and topwater very effectively. Once a strike occurs, the

soft tip acts to cushion the fight which helps keep treble hooks in

place.

8-)

As RW has stated... the softer the tip the better, and I want a 10lb superline tied to my jerkbait.

I currently use a St. Croix AVC68MXF

The faster tip means that I have to keep the drag a little on the lose side but I feel I have more control over the bait.  I like to use 10-12lb fluorocarbon.  

I've been using a Team All Star 6' M/f, but I just picked up a AVC62MXF that I've been dying to tryout.  I'd really prefer something a little longer, if I was a little taller.  Your physical height, and retrieve style will have a lot to do with your length preference.

One overlooked factor for a jerkbait rod, and for a spinnerbait rod, is the length of the handle. I like a shorter handle for both these applications.

The Avid 6'8" M-XF rod I have has the perfect length and action for jerkbaits, but the handle is too long.

I use a Setyr 6'6" MH-F rod for jerkbaits. the power and action are very similar to the Avid, but the handle is over 2" shorter, making it easier to manipulate the bait with the tip down.

Another vote for the softer rod - IMHO, works best for treble hooks for hook setting and fighting.

Thanks guys. Guess I will stick to my cranking rods for jerkbaits.