Take a look at All-Pro rods their Apex aeries is the most sensitive rods I have ever used. They have graphit rings in the handle that really makes them sensitive. www.allprorods.com

The production Hendrix rods look nice but at that price range they don't mention the types of blanks they are using.Why not ? Very little info on the actual materials and construction of these rods.

T

I checked out the Hendrix site; He mentions he uses Fuji Alconites and an "IM6" blank.

Missed the IM6 when I looked at the site but why pay for an IM6 rod for more money when you can get an IM8 Crucial with a life time warranty with an over the counter exchange ?

Just to let everyone know, IM8 isn't better than IM6. That just describes how the carbon weave is constructed. The higher number doesn't necessarily mean it's better, just a different pattern. It's the cure of the resin, the tolerances held for straighness, and the consistency of the winding that really makes a rod a "rod". Having said that, I need to check out Hendrix rods considering they're local. Has anyone tried Powell rods out? They look really nice, but I've never held one before.

I would definately look into the Crucial. Blank is better, price is better, warranty is better and I would look for a review from someone that doesn't get a discount from the dealer to give a good review. I dont like the cheap Castaways that they have at Academy but I just got 2 med hvy 7fters(cableas clearance) that are made in Montgomery(not china) and I like them alot. The SCs are real nice too--you can fnd them on sale at Dicks every now and then. G-Loomis' are great if you can find them on sale/clearance other wise too much $$ for me(I have 2 but got lucky)

Expert anglers say to consider the following when choosing a fishing rod:

Graphite rods are stronger, lighter and more sensitive than fiberglass rods. Though graphite is a good material, keep in mind that there are bad graphite rods and good fiberglass/graphite rods.

If you go for graphite, look for a high-modulus model. The higher the modulus of elasticity, the more stiffness per ounce of rod weight. High-modulus rods are stiffer, stronger and cast more accurately.

Several experts say cork handles offer the most sensitivity for detecting nibbling or soft-biting fish. They also have greater aesthetic appeal.

Check to see if rod blanks run through the handle, which ensures extra sensitivity.

Don't scrimp on the guides through which the fishing line runs from the reel to the tip of the rod. Look for stainless steel or other high-quality guides that won't rust or chip, and thus damage the fishing line and limit your casting range.


http://www.consumersearch.com/www/sports_and_leisure/fishing_rods/review.html

More in depth article:
http://www.dwfonline.com/Articles/anatomy_of_a_fishing_rod.htm

I would look at the Shimano over the counter exchange.don't have to ship and pay for the exchange and wait. I bought another brand everyone was saying how good they were. I used it 4 times and a little bass broke the tip. Sent it back 3 month ago still waiting for the replacement.Suppose to been shipped early last week.

Fishing is fun! I built my first rod in about 1969, and was hooked. I met Gary Loomis in 1980 at Sporting Goods Inc. where I took care of all the rod wrapping equipment. I fell in love with his blank. I built Loomis for the 27 yrs. I will allways build Loomis they are great. I also build rods from any blank company you wish. I have a friend that has the plans for Gary's original blanks he started building the blanks 3 yrs ago after testing them for the past year I believe for it's class it is the best you can get. We now use fine Italian Cork, Fuji Alcolite guides, Fuji ECSM reel seats, Flex Coat finish, Gudebrod thread size C, I spline every rod. (you can get any guides or componets you wish). We started with IM-6, and are adding IM-8 soon then IM-10. I thank everyone that has given us a chance if you have any questions please feel free to give me a call 817-229-9341 Thank you and Good fishing Michael

Better said from the man himself! We couldnt do you justice Mike Hey man what are you doing up so early anyway LOL
Danny

Hey Danny Building rods! It is all good. Anglers ask some good ?'s. There really is no secrets. You eather have a good product or you do not. I hope to help anyone that contacts me even if it means recommending another Rod Company if I can not fill the need. I fish with other rods myself. If it wasn't for other rod companies I wouldn't be here either. Please have fun fishing and be friendly. Michael

Bass Hog, Couldn't agree more with you. The rod is the sum of it's components, and perhaps some attention to detail. This was a good topic. I love/hate the fact that rod companies don't/can't disclose the blanks in which they use. Most of them are not allowed, especially if those blanks are high end blanks. I know a many of custom rod builders, and smaller rod companies,that would like nothinhg more than to say I use "X" companies blanks. Crawrod, hit the nail on the head, you either have a good product or you don't.

Ditto. I use mainly these same rods and some Phoenix rods and have hauled in some 5lb+ bass and never a problem. All Star, American Rodsmith, Phoenix Blaze, good rods and they won't break the bank account. The Shimano Crucial is a real nice rod if you want to spend the extra dollars. Also, you can't beat a Falcon lowrider, not too expensive, and a real good rod for the money. You will always get many, many, opinions. It boils down to how much you want to spend and what you are doing with the rod. ANY rod WILL catch fish.......

all star and falcon are comprable, but when it comes to durability, all star takes the cake, loomis is amazing, you can feel the fish breathing on a MH, but unless you have an excessive amount to spend or a gloomis sponsorship you arent gonna be able to get each reel its own loomis.... but on your topic regarding lure specific rods, 6'6 m for most crankbaits; as to ensure a hookset instead of ripping the bait out of the fishes mouth, 7 MH for carolina, 6'6 m for your finess rigs, dropshots, wackyrigs, shakey heads( i use this for most all plastics period just for the sensitivity but many will argue that) for the heavier spinners and jigs, 7' mh is the best way to go--- the bottom line is; who is holding the rod, a person holding a 6' M better be amazing at settin the hook, while a 7 MH will almost insure the set on any decent hit provided the angler feels the hit correctly, thats where controversey comes in, each fisherman fishes diff.

PM Sent.