Loomis E6X or St. Croix premier, need help

[Angry John]

1 hour ago, lmbfisherman said:

That maybe, Shimano owning Loomis as Hulkster states they remain different.  Second all rods are made in the USA, even the E6X.

Yes and starting at the 200 dollar price point they can be made at a profit, now show me a loomis rod made in the us under the cost of the e6x at 180ish that would compare with the premier.  Second the company is not american owned.  Profits are sent off shore but its still better than made in china.  Most people could care less I just prefer to employ my countrymen and support the USA.

[Turkey sandwich]

So, politics and a whole lot of specifics aside, what do you actually want to learn?  I'm with @smalljaw67 on this one.  If the plan is just learning some basics, or fishing with live bait, you don't typically need anything special.  If you want to learn to fish basic bottom contact baits like jigs and plastic worms, any decent fast action Medium or Medium Heavy rod will suffice.  I would not throw jigs, spinnerbaits, or 99% of plastic worm presentations on a light action rod.  For around $100, a lot of good quality rods can be had that are great for learning on.  I'd invest the difference in a rod built for a different presentation or invest the difference in the type of tackle you'll likely be using.

 

If you're still looking at either the Loomis or St Croix, they've both excellent quality rods and I'm not going to cloud things up with other $200 price point suggestions.  I own an Avid X and love it.  I also own around half a dozen St Croix sticks ranging from Premier to Legend Elite.  The rod quality is excellent and their customer service is second to none. 

[EvanT123]

Op sounds like you had the chance to hold both rods. Anyone feel better in you hand than the other? If one did that's the one if go with. 

 

 

[Bucky205]

anything with an IM6 blank around 7' MH/F are usually good rods for the money, around $30.

 

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