St Croix Black Bass rods

[Eric 26]

So I wasn’t sure whether I should add on to other threads or not but I decided to start this one instead. So I’m interested to hear from anyone who has purchased or even has handled the new St Croix Black Bass series and or has any experience with them. For some context I’m in Illinois and my fishing season is pretty much done as is most of my Northern half of the country fellow anglers so I’m not in any hurry to purchase any new rods but I’m interested in getting a chance to handle this lineup but probably won’t get the chance until my local fishing show in February. I’m planning on pairing a 8 speed casting reel to a 7’-0” medium heavy moderate fast or possibly a 7’-1” fast and I’m also interested in handling a Dobyns Sierra 734 which I believe should be pretty close in feel but this is why I’m asking for anyone’s experience. Lastly I’m looking to spool the reel with 30/40 pound braid to be used for buzz baits, toads and the like.

[MN Fisher]

Wife got me a Black Bass 7'3" MH/F for my birthday last month. While not as light as a Victory, it's well balanced with a Tatula 100 on it, the taper seems to be good and it seems responsive. I might have a new line to purchase since they ruined the Mojo. I like the color scheme as well.

[NorthernBasser]

I have not handled the Black Bass, so I won't be of much help. What I can tell you is that Sierra 734 is an awesome stick! Can handle pretty much any moving bait, as well as frogs. It comes in micro guides and normal size, so make sure you pay attention and get what you want. I have the micro guides because I don't run a leader on that rod, just straight braid. 

[Eric 26]

@NorthernBasser Woul you say your Sierra is a true fast or more of a moderate fast? I know Dobyns run a 1/2 to a full power under their ratings but I’ve read and have seen some videos saying it’s a bit slower in action also. Unfortunately where I shop Dobyns rods aren’t readily available to feel in hand and along  with currently having a true fast action medium heavy 2 of my favorite rods are more moderate fast with one being an Okuma TCS medium plus if you have ever handled that rod. 

[F14A-B]

Where is the rod made? (SC) and what modulus is it? I’m assuming you’re doing jigs or bottom hopping TRigs. As you’ve selected an 8 speed reel. Is this true?

[Eric 26]

5 minutes ago, F14A-B said:

Where is the rod made? (SC) and what modulus is it? I’m assuming you’re doing jigs or bottom hopping TRigs. As you’ve selected an 8 speed reel. Is this true?

I’m going to assume it’s made in their Mexico factory and it’s made with their scIII Carbon blank. I’m planning on an 8speed reel with 30-40 pound braid for mainly top water type lures such as buzz baits solid body toad type lures and possibly chug bug/ jitterbugs.

[F14A-B]

7 minutes ago, Eric 26 said:

I’m going to assume it’s made in their Mexico factory and it’s made with their scIII Carbon blank. I’m planning on an 8speed reel with 30-40 pound braid for mainly top water type lures such as buzz baits solid body toad type lures and possibly chug bug/ jitterbugs.

Ok I gotcha. Well I hope you get what ya need and want. 

[NorthernBasser]

1 hour ago, Eric 26 said:

@NorthernBasser Woul you say your Sierra is a true fast or more of a moderate fast? I know Dobyns run a 1/2 to a full power under their ratings but I’ve read and have seen some videos saying it’s a bit slower in action also. Unfortunately where I shop Dobyns rods aren’t readily available to feel in hand and along  with currently having a true fast action medium heavy 2 of my favorite rods are more moderate fast with one being an Okuma TCS medium plus if you have ever handled that rod. 

 

It's definitely a tad slower than fast, but also has a solid backbone. Most consider it a MH+ than a true heavy.

 

If you're looking for a buzzbait rod, this is perfect. And like I said, it definitely works for frogging as well. I have other frog rods that I use more regularly, but have thrown a frog on this many times. I also like the little softer tip because it aids in walking a frog in open water. 40# braid would be perfect. I've even thrown lipless cranks on it when I really wanna rip it through the grass. Like I said, it's a very versatile rod. Many love it for Chatterbaits as well.

 

Weight-wise, the rod comes in a tad heavy (4.9 oz) like most Dobyns rods (micro guide version weighs a little less). But they balance so well that it's not even noticeable. 

[webertime]

It's basically the old MOJO Bass with lesser trim and slightly lesser guides.  Should "fish" just like a MOJO 

[Eric 26]

8 minutes ago, webertime said:

It's basically the old MOJO Bass with lesser trim and slightly lesser guides.  Should "fish" just like a MOJO 

I’m pretty sure I’m not alone in saying I’ve never fished with a Mojo but knowing how well liked and to a lesser degree still is liked I feel pretty confident in the series. But what I was more after and would still love to hear is what @NorthernBasser added in experience with the rods in question although I really do appreciate all the responses that have been coming in and I’m hoping still will as I’m totally intrigued by any and all rod manufacturers and if I ever won the lottery I’d own a tackle shop just so I could try every rod and reel that’s available today. I should add although I’m focused on the Dobyns and St Croix rods if anyone uses any other rods similar in power and actions to the 2 I’ve referenced I’d love to read the responses. TIA

[NorthernBasser]

On 12/24/2024 at 11:54 AM, Eric 26 said:

I’m pretty sure I’m not alone in saying I’ve never fished with a Mojo but knowing how well liked and to a lesser degree still is liked I feel pretty confident in the series. But what I was more after and would still love to hear is what @NorthernBasser added in experience with the rods in question although I really do appreciate all the responses that have been coming in and I’m hoping still will as I’m totally intrigued by any and all rod manufacturers and if I ever won the lottery I’d own a tackle shop just so I could try every rod and reel that’s available today. I should add although I’m focused on the Dobyns and St Croix rods if anyone uses any other rods similar in power and actions to the 2 I’ve referenced I’d love to read the responses. TIA

The Black Bass rods are extremely new. You're gonna have a hard time finding someone who not only has a model you'd be interested in, but also put some time on the water with it. 

 

I have 50 different rods from more budget-friendly all the way up to higher end, and going through them all, the best rod I would recommend you for what you're looking for is still the Sierra 734 micro guides. Especially at it's current sale price.

 

https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Dobyns_Sierra_Micro_Casting_Rods/descpage-SSMS.html

[Eric 26]

I truly realize what you’re saying and I’ve really had a hard time not just pulling the trigger on the Sierra but I’m truly wanting to wait until spring where I’m pretty sure I can catch a sale even if it’s not as good and also hopefully compare the St Croix to the Dobyns. Again I really appreciate your insight.