HMG vs Phenix Maxim

[BassnBuds]

My local sportsman has Fenwick HMG 7’0 medium heavy / fast casting rod on sale for 60 bucks. I snapped my lews rod and 13 fishing rod so now looking yo upgrade to something a bit nicer. They also have Phenix maxims 7’3 mhf (camo grip model) for 120$. I was reading different reviews online and I keep getting mixed reviews on the HMG in the sensitivity department. I’m looking to spend around 60-130 bucks and looking for a medium heavy preferably but want a rod that allows me to savor the fight too and isn’t just a broomstick that horses bass in per se. they also had HMX rods in the medium heavy 6’10” variant 

I guess it would help to add I mostly fish ponds and the salt river. A lot of people tell me go back to a medium rod to get more out of the fight but I throw bigger baits and feel like medium heavy covers more bases for me. 

[ironbjorn]

I was primarily a Fenwick guy before I made the switch to being primarily a Dobyns guy. The HMG is a good rod for $100. I don't find rods "heavy" in the sense that a lot of people talk about, but it is a heavier rod compared to others. The sensitivity is on par for the $80-$100 range. The rod is stiff though and fishes more like a MH+. 

 

I have no experience with Phenix.

[GetFishorDieTryin]

Personally I would go with the Maxim over the older HMG for sure.  Contact 13 about that broken rod, they will most likely replace it even if its your fault it broke.

[BassnBuds]

1 hour ago, GetFishorDieTryin said:

Personally I would go with the Maxim over the older HMG for sure.  Contact 13 about that broken rod, they will most likely replace it even if its your fault it broke.

I think it’s the new model. I grabbed the HMG because it was on sale but will go grab the Phenix if I don’t like the way the HMG fishes