A custom built with a GLX blank is the best period. The IMX series are really good blanks, but there are a lot of rods of similar quality these days.The GL2, GL3 series are alright, but you are paying WAYYYYYYY too much for the name. As far as an over the counter rod? Megabass makes some SWEET sticks!

Ugly Stick is all I use

I don't own any, but in my opinion, the high end St. Croixs are the best rods/ blanks made. Their technology is unmatched in the industry. Ten years ago, you'd have said the same about G Loomis, but they have not kept up with the boys in the Midwest.

The only rod in my boat... St. Croix

Zebco Rhino. Those are great for throwing BIG swimbaits like they use in California. They're also good for DD22's.

Fished alot of em but like the Falcon the most....

I like Falcon, but some will argue GLoomis

I AM INTERESTED IN THE CARBON FIBRE HANDLE. ARE THERE ANY PICS ON THE WEBSITE?

Falcon caras.

Im all about those caras

I think most people that reply here will list what they use. Most fishermen have only tried a few brands, few fishermen have tried all brands. That being said, I am a Dobyns guy.

You ought to look at Kister Helium or the new Argon's. I have used most of the higher end rods. The issue I was having with the so-called best brand was tip inserts constantly popping out or reel seats coming loose. I have been getting more and more Kistler rods and eliminating the others because they are extremely lite and sensitive and they have not been having the issues noted above. The Argon for around $200 is a awesome rod. Plus they are made in the great state of Texas.

One interesting note for the Loomis folks:

I was talking to one of the local Loomis reps at the Houston Fishing Show and he said Loomis has been working hard to re-tool their building process. It's a long and technical story as to how it's all being done, but the bottom line is they've developed a system that will now allow each and every rod to be identical to the one before it - every single time.

So if you buy a Loomis 7'3" heavy-action flipping stick, the next Loomis 7'3" heavy-action flipping stick you get will be identical in every way - action, weight down to the gram, all that - which is very difficult to achieve. And that goes for fly rods, too.

I thought that was pretty interesting.

Kistler LTAs are bad to the bone.

X2. Love my Hendrix Rods. And he will build it to your specs for less than a Loomis with a better warranty. And he's local.