Ideas for a Jig rod

[Smokinal]

I have a need/want/hankerin for a new jig rod. My current rod is a Skeet Reese jig/worm rod. I'm not too keen on it for a couple of reasons. First, I don't like micro-guides; second, years ago I saw a tip from Gary Klein that he likes to hold the fore-grip with the line running over his finger to detect bites. I started doing this and love it (don't try it! You'll never go back to palming a reel with bottom baits!) I have better feel and better hookset with this hand position.

Anyway, the Reese rod does not have a fore-grip; just the threaded nut to lock the reel down.

 

So, some of my "must have" features are:

---fore-grip

---prefer cork but foam will do

---7' to 7'4" area

---MH/fast or XF

---regular sized guides (not micro)

--- prefer 1 pc

--- prefer solid handle but split grip will do

--- And I want all this shipped for under $50....lol...just kidding. I'd like to be under $150

 

I know I'll have to do a lot of homework and look at different rods. And I don't expect you folks to do this for me, just thought someone may have this exact rod and know off your head what it is.

I'd be interested in used if anyone has this animal they don't use.

 

Thanks folks

[Dens228]

If you want to spend $200 get the Levante Braillis

If you want to spend $300 get the Orochi XX Braillist

 

I had the Levante and still have it.  I wanted another one when MegaBass did the recall and needed another jig rod so I got the Orochi.....I wish I hadn't because now I'm spoiled and will be getting another one.

[Smokinal]

Actually, the Shimano Clarus fits all of my wants...and at $80, I may have found it.

[RichF]

4 minutes ago, Smokinal said:

Actually, the Shimano Clarus fits all of my wants...and at $80, I may have found it.

TW still has some Shimano Exage rods on sale for that price. Could be a good option since they're more "bass specific" than the Clarus line.

[Smokinal]

1 hour ago, RichF said:

TW still has some Shimano Exage rods on sale for that price. Could be a good option since they're more "bass specific" than the Clarus line.

I have another Clarus drop shot rod; not familiar with the Exage. Is the Exage a better line?

[RichF]

2 hours ago, Smokinal said:

I have another Clarus drop shot rod; not familiar with the Exage. Is the Exage a better line?

It retailed at a higher price point than the Clarus. Not sure if that makes it better but I imagine it has some better quality components.

[WRB]

Fenwick HMX meets your needs.

Tom

[Catt]

Daiwa Tatula 7' 1" MH Extra Fast $149.99 with a free rod sleeve.

[Smokinal]

So I like the grip on the Clarus and HMX the best.

Which do you think is the better rod? If there even is a difference.

Price is the same and fit my needs and budget so either will do fine I would imagine.