Shimano Expride Spinning Models

[Travis Lofton]

Hey guys. So, I've read a lot about the Expride models, and finally ordered one. As you know, they're tough to find in stock, but managed to get a 6'10 ML on tacklewarehouse. I planned on using this rod for light dropshotting and ned rigs, but have came across info suggesting this model is pretty much dropshot specific. It's listed as a fast action rod but heard it's more of a moderate. I've heard guys say they've used the 7' Light+ . Curious if anyone has opinions on using the 6'10 ML with 1/20 - 1/10 oz neds? Thanks!

 

P.S.

First post here. Thankful for everyone's input and the info shared on this site.

Also figured I should mention I'll be pairing it with a Stratic FL 2500 with 10 lb braid to 6-8 lb fluoro

Also figured I should mention I'll be pairing it with a Stradic FL 2500 with 10 lb braid to 6-8 lb fluoro

[mrpao]

I have two of the 6'10" ml rod and use one for drop shots 1/8 -3/16.

I don't feel like it's a moderate action. It feels fast to me.

I  throw smaller jerkbaits on the other one.

I think a stradic ci4+ would be a better reel for that rod. I have both of mine paired up with stradic ci4+ 1000.

The rod is very lightweight and the stradic FL 2500 may feel awkward on it. A 2500 ci4+ should pair nicely though.

[Jason.Domingo]

Ahh the Expride..universally loved on here. I don’t see why not, pretty sure anyone with a dropshot specific rod will use it as an all around finesse rod for example the Loomis’. For comparison’s sake, I use an Orochi XX Whipsnake as an all around finesse rod. Although the only difference being the action is an extra fast but the tip is still soft.

[Matt_3479]

My first expride I went in to look for a spinning rod. When I got there they only had the 6’8, 7’ light plus, and 7’ medium. I grabbed the light plus to try and have been blow away with the rod! I have it paired with a 2500 fk and it doesn’t feel bad. A 1000 fk/fl would of been better or the ci4+ but the 2500 fk really isn’t that bad!! Keeps the rod tip up slightly which is works for my ned rigs! In general, love the rod!! 

[Travis Lofton]

Update: tried the rod for the first time yesterday. Incredible. By far the most sensitive rod I've ever used. I own an E6X (it's ok) a Curado (also just ok) and a BPS Platinum (eh) in spinning for comparison. Blows them out of the water.

It does have a lot of tip to it (again, 6'10 ML fast) but I wouldn't call it a moderate like I've seen some claim. Can't wait to get another. Probably getting the 7'2 MH MF casting for jigs. 

Highly recommend the Expride like many others would.

[OG Crankster]

3 hours ago, Travis Lofton said:

Update: tried the rod for the first time yesterday. Incredible. By far the most sensitive rod I've ever used. I own an E6X (it's ok) a Curado (also just ok) and a BPS Platinum (eh) in spinning for comparison. Blows them out of the water.

It does have a lot of tip to it (again, 6'10 ML fast) but I wouldn't call it a moderate like I've seen some claim. Can't wait to get another. Probably getting the 7'2 MH MF casting for jigs. 

Highly recommend the Expride like many others would.

I have that 7ft 2 rod. PM sent.

[Nibbles]

Was thinking about getting one if I can't find a backup for my OG Cielo dropshot rod.

 

What's this thing with the tip? Does it have a reputation of having a softer tip?

 

I'm used to dropshotting with an XXF/XF action tip - my current one literally has a titanium tip like some panfish rods. 

[Travis Lofton]

I had read on a *** thread that they would consider it a moderate but after using it I disagree. It'll definitely be softer than what you're used to though. I used to use an XF Lew's custom speed stick drop shot rod so I was concerned too, but I think you'll enjoy it.

***. Apparently can't put ***. without punctuation lol

?‍♀️ the forum that rhymes with Cass tote ventral. Lord forbid if it's mentioned here or they censor it

[Chrisko]

Hoping somebody with one of these Expride rods will chime in.  I just bought the 6'8 medium spinning rod - according to my readings, it is supposed to be a 6'8 medium with extra fast action.  Reason for my question is that my rod on the shaft is labeled as "M268".  It does not show "EX268MA" which is what the TackleWarehouse and Shimano sites list it's model as.  Having just received it, I am now concerned that it is not actually the current version 6'8 medium/Extra fast rod I was counting on.

[EddieM]

On 3/11/2021 at 3:35 PM, Chrisko said:

Hoping somebody with one of these Expride rods will chime in.  I just bought the 6'8 medium spinning rod - according to my readings, it is supposed to be a 6'8 medium with extra fast action.  Reason for my question is that my rod on the shaft is labeled as "M268".  It does not show "EX268MA" which is what the TackleWarehouse and Shimano sites list it's model as.  Having just received it, I am now concerned that it is not actually the current version 6'8 medium/Extra fast rod I was counting on.

You have the older rod.