New rod question????

[JCB]

I would recommend you take a look at the Shimano Compre (IM-8 graphite & $90-110) or Crucial rods (IM-9 graphite & $120-150). I have St Croix Avids, Fenwick HMG and Shimano rods and really like the Shimano's as the best bang for the buck. Shimano has a great over the counter replacement policy which is much better than paying to ship the rod back to St Croix (I have unfortuntately had experience with both). Both Crucial and Compre lines have ML rods from 6'8" to 7'6" specifically designed for rigging. Thorne Bros is a good place to look at these rods and will give you great advice.

[slipperybob]

Dahitman44,

I thought you were look'n at a baitcasting type rod, but sounds like you got a spinning type rod.

As for lines, I personally had very bad luck with Vanish, when it first came out. I've pretty much given up on it, with it's weak knot strength. If you're set on fluorocarbon lines, look at the new 100% fluorocarbon line from Trilene, supposed to address what Vanish fell short on.

[TKO_PUNCH]

Dahitmann,

Did you purchase your rod at Cabela's? I was at the Rogers store on Saturday and they didn't have any 6'6" med fast action IMX rods in stock. So to take advantage of the buy $500 and save $100, I ordered one. If I would have waited a day, I might of had a shot at the "other" free sweatshirt! I asked if they would order a couple of rods since they were out of stock, that way I could compare and choose the best.

[John Mickish]

I am not a big fan of vanish. I've used it at don't like the way it takes a "set" on the spool. I do like the toughness though. I now use it as a leader only. I prefer the 6-8 lb superbraids because of the small line diameter, it allows you to use a lighter jig/weight to get to the same depth and the feel is out of this world with a quality rod like the IMX. The Berkley Fireline 8lb test has the same diameter at 2lb mono. Tie a 10 foot length of Vanish with a blood knot as a leader and you will have the best of all the worlds.