You just don't see this kind of customer service nowadays

[JFlynn97]

I recently picked up an ALX Zolo Deputy Rod, not even from the ALX website but from Tackle Warehouse. And yesterday in the mail I received a hand-written letter from Alan (Alex? I'm terrible at reading cursive, hahah!) giving his thanks for purchasing an ALX rod, hoping that I've been enjoying it and catching loads of fish. It was a small notion, but it meant a lot and goes to show that they really care about their customers. On top of this, before purchasing my rod I talked to their customer service looking for recommendations as to what rod I should get based on what techniques I want to use it for, where I'm fishing, etc. They responded quickly and gave their recommendations and an in-depth explanation for why they'd recommend it. This has pretty much guaranteed that the next time I'm looking for a rod to add to my arsenal, it'll be an ALX.

 

And to answer the question, in the short period of time I've had the rod it's quickly become my favorite in my collection! Incredibly sensitive, balanced, and just feels great in my hands. I absolutely love it!

[puddlepuncher]

I've had similar experiences with American Legacy and it means the world.  

 

Not only did that letter lock you in as a customer, but it has me looking at their lineup.  Thanks for sharing.

[GReb]

Yep ALX is one of the good guys. I just wish more vendors carried their products. 

[WRB]

ALX was recommended to me by Lamiglas when they stopped making custom rods about 6 years ago. Alex is easy to work with, very knowledgeable and offers lifetime warranty and 90 day free trail on his custom rods. I have recommended ALX to serveral anglers based on the customer service and quality of ALX rods.

Tom

[RyneB]

ALX is the only rods I use. I was a Loomis guy until I used a Zolo. Next day, all Loomis rods got sold. As long as Alex makes rods, they will be the only rods i will own.

[Matt_3479]

I don’t know anything really about ALX rods and debating on adding another to my arsenal. I currently have loomis rods, a kistler rod, dobyns, daiwa, st. Croix and another brand. Wondering in comparison how they stack up against some of these brands I’ve mentioned. I’m not looking for the go with ALX answer. Looking more for I’ve fished a “loomis imx pro, and the zolo has better sensitivity but isn’t quite as sensitive as my kistler helium but it’s super close. And the balance equals out the difference” or something like that. I’d like to know more about them and why you prefer it

[Stephen B]

2 hours ago, Matt_3479 said:

I don’t know anything really about ALX rods and debating on adding another to my arsenal. I currently have loomis rods, a kistler rod, dobyns, daiwa, st. Croix and another brand. Wondering in comparison how they stack up against some of these brands I’ve mentioned. I’m not looking for the go with ALX answer. Looking more for I’ve fished a “loomis imx pro, and the zolo has better sensitivity but isn’t quite as sensitive as my kistler helium but it’s super close. And the balance equals out the difference” or something like that. I’d like to know more about them and why you prefer it

I prefer different rod characteristics for each technique so I use a few brands to find my desired rod. I have fished a few IMX Pros and a ALX Zolo Powerbolt. While it's hard to compare rods from companies that were designed for different applications, I would go with the IMX Pro from my experience. It seems that you prefer to spend around $300, if that's the case I recommend taking a look at the Megabass Orochi XX rods also. The build quality of Megabass is arguably one if not the best I have ever seen and are great performers that perform well above their price point. Megabass offers a bunch of great rod models in the series that would fit whatever you needed in a rod. The biggest thing is that it appears you live in Canada, so international shipping with hurt. Im not sure what it would cost but I would likely buy locally to avoid the added cost if possible.

[RyneB]

Too me, it came down too money and performance. I was able to sell my used IMXs, spend the money on a ALX Ikos rod and still have $50 left over. I think the IKOS line is some of the most versatile rods I have ever used. Especially the Hammer and Promise. There just isnt much i cant do with either of those. Great build quality and sensitivy for half the price of a IMX. Dont get me wrong, the IMX Pro is a great rod, but I didnt see the extra $150ish dollar difference. That's my view of the IKOS line.

 

The Zolo line, IMHO is a better rod than the IMX pro, and still cheaper. Feels lighter, and more sensitive. The zolo line doesnt seem as versatile, more technique specific compared to the IKOS.  Although, the deputy can do a whole lot. I prefer really light low profile reels like the MGX and ALX from Abu, the Zolo line just feels more balanced and comfortable in my hand with those reels compared to the IMX pro. I dragged a point with a Carolina rig with a Zolo Dragger, and a IMX Pro. Same reel, line, weight, bait, hook etc. The Zolo was more sensitive. That's really the only back to back test I have done between the two.

 

I also dont believe there is a better rod on the market today in the $150 price point that can compete with the IKOS. I do not own a spinning rod from ALX or Loomis, so I cant speak on that line. I hope this helps.

[jbrew73]

17 hours ago, Matt_3479 said:

I don’t know anything really about ALX rods and debating on adding another to my arsenal. I currently have loomis rods, a kistler rod, dobyns, daiwa, st. Croix and another brand. Wondering in comparison how they stack up against some of these brands I’ve mentioned. I’m not looking for the go with ALX answer. Looking more for I’ve fished a “loomis imx pro, and the zolo has better sensitivity but isn’t quite as sensitive as my kistler helium but it’s super close. And the balance equals out the difference” or something like that. I’d like to know more about them and why you prefer it

Alex is a stand up guy and has impeccable customer service but unfortunately I found their rods to be heavy and lacking sensitivity in my hands.  They are very nicely built and some guys swear by them and you may find that they work great for you.

[Further North]

Have never had the pleasure of working with ALX, sounds very nice.

 

I had a similar experience with Mepps back in August.  I ordered a bunch of in-line #5 spinners in various colors, and received a similar letter, and great follow-up and turn time on the order.

 

I'll order direct from them again!

[WRB]

I know of 2 rod companies today that you can phone the owners an talk to them; Alex at ALX and Gary at Dobyns, both offer excellent customer service.

Tom

[Stephen B]

7 minutes ago, WRB said:

I know of 2 rod companies today that you can phone the owners an talk to them; Alex at ALX and Gary at Dobyns, both offer excellent customer service.

Tom

I can't name a company with bad customer service in the fishing rod/reel business that I've dealt with which is a good thing. I call and talk to Trey at Kistler a good bit, St Croix is a small family run business and are a pleasure to work with, Dobyns is a great family run company and talk to Gary a good bit, as well as talk to Kenichi at Megabass. I also have had great experiences with G Loomis, Shimano, Phenix and Daiwa. All the guys/gals have been tremendous and are helpful and friendly. Luckily I have always been treated well by all the companies that I support ?