Rod Advice Needed

[Hallman]

Looking for an upper end rod to pair with an Abu Garcia MGX.  It will be primarily for jig and worm fishing so sensitivity is key.  I already have more of a finese set up so I want this to have a good combo of feel and power.  Looking for something in the $200-$300 range.  What are you favorites/suggestions?  Thanks in advance!

[*Hootie]

G loomis IMX fits that price range very well. About $265.00. MH, 6 1/2 or 7 ft. Very lightweight and sensitive.

Hootie

[Capt.Bob]

St. Croix Avid 7' MHF $180.00 an excellent rod very sensitive and Lifetime warranty. Everyone has their favorite brand, I like the Croix cause their top end are American Made by American Craftsman,,,,,,,,and it shows!

[lmbfisherman]

Another choice would be Shimano Cumara, although I'd prefer the previous version.  I would get the medium for finesse.  I'd also go for the 7'2" version. 

[kickerfish1]

I have an IMX, several cumara rods (previous generation), and several dobyns champion extreme rods. I would rank the sensitivity in the order of the rods listed from least to most sensitive. The champion extreme series is a bit over your budget by about $30 but there should be a memorial day sale coming up with discounts from 15-20% at most major tackle retailers. The champion extremes will be under $275. They are fantastic rods. For worm/jig and general bottom contact baits I would get the dx744. I haven't fished the new cumara rods but all reports seem to indicate great sensitivity with a slight concern for handle/foam grips. I would get the 7'2 mh fast cumara for general bottom techniques. The IMX is a great rod just not as lively as the other two in my hands. Really likey the casting distance and crispness of the mbr 844. A very powerful traditionally styled rod.

If you are willing to roll the dice a bit more megabass has a new Orochi rod. Rod checks in around $300 with a 3 year warranty. I believe all rods have a 3 year warranty and can NOT be discounted below full retail prices. Early reports show very good sensitivity and balance. They also feature full grip handles and modest looks by megabass standards.

Quite a few options out there in that range. I guess if it was me I would wait for the dobyns dx 744 to go on sale during the memorial day weekend. Great balance, looks, sensitivity, and casting distance.

[Hallman]

Thanks for all the feedback!!

 

Kickerfish,

I have looked at the Dobyns and really like them.  I will see if I can get a little better deal around Memorial day.  Thanks!!

[Arv]

My recommendation would be a Dobyn's Champion. I have a 2 power Champion, so its ligher than what you are looking for, but reagardless it is by far my favorite rod. Very light, balances GREAT with my 51e Curado and its very sensitive.