6'8" MH Shimano Expride Casting Rod?

[jhoep585]

I have always been a St. Croix guy for mid to upper-end rods, but based on all the positive reviews, I have been wanting to try a Shimano Expride. All the models I have been eyeing are on back order for a long time (7'2" MH and 6'10 M), so I was wondering if anyone has experience with the 6'8" MH casting rod that is more readily available? If so, pros/cons, and what applications have you found it useful for? 

 

I am looking for something to pair up with a Tatula SV that could be used as an all around rod or maybe with the shorter length, a kayak rod for lighter jigs, spinnerbaits, and paddletail swimbaits. 

 

Let me know if it is worth the purchase, or is it better to wait it out on a more popular backorder model, thanks! 

Edited May 9, 2020 by jhoep585

[jbsoonerfan]

I have that particular rod. I use it for 3/16 oz Texas Rigs and 3/16 oz Ned Heads and swinging jig heads and it works great!

[MontclairDave]

On 5/9/2020 at 9:26 PM, jbsoonerfan said:

I have that particular rod. I use it for 3/16 oz Texas Rigs and 3/16 oz Ned Heads and swinging jig heads and it works great!

Just those baits? Seems pretty light for the lure range of the rod, which maxes out at 1 oz. I’ve been eyeing this rod for kayak fishing, as well, like the OP. But I am hoping to use it for heavier jigs and Texas creature baits up to 3/4 ounces and also frogging in light cover. Have you use it for any of those applications? Others? Is this a niche rod or more of an all-arounder for you? Thanks! 

[jbsoonerfan]

I actually no longer have the rod. I found that I prefer a 7' + rod for those type baits. I tried a lipless on it and a spinnerbait and I didn't feel like it was suited for those either. I probably should have spent more time with it but it really just seemed too short for most of what I wanted to do with it.

[JA4]

On 2/11/2021 at 5:04 AM, MontclairDave said:

Just those baits? Seems pretty light for the lure range of the rod, which maxes out at 1 oz. I’ve been eyeing this rod for kayak fishing, as well, like the OP. But I am hoping to use it for heavier jigs and Texas creature baits up to 3/4 ounces and also frogging in light cover. Have you use it for any of those applications? Others? Is this a niche rod or more of an all-arounder for you? Thanks! 

I fish with this rod and have it paired with a Curado K. I feel like 3/8 to 1/2 oz jigs plus trailer is the sweet spot. A!so fishes 1/2 oz spinnerbaits and bladed jigs.action is a little fast for the bladed Baits, but works. Great for buzzbaits. Personally I think it has to much power for light stuff.  As far as power goes I caught a 13 1/2 pound channel catfish on it in the heavy grass with a bladed jig and it was at its max. Its very balanced, casts easily and acuratly, and has decent sensitivity... I've bought and sold several high end rods, but this one is staying in my rod locker. I would say it falls right between the glx 803c and glx804c in action and backbone..

It will fish a medium or small frog in open water very well

Just make sure to tighten your drag down to set those hooks