BC rod for plastics and jigs

[Taliesin]

Yes, the cheap guy on the site is looking at getting a new rod. And one that's over $100 at that. I'm not going overboard though, top price is around $175.

Rod will be paired with an Abu Garcia Amb Record No. 50 (basically a fancier version of the 5600) spooled with 17# P-line CXX.

Currently I have it paired with a 7' Ugly Stick Pro Lite MH, used it for plastics, jigs, and big topwaters (hybrids).

After some research I have some thoughts on a St Croix AC70MHF or the AC70MF. Leaning toward the MH due to fishing heavy cover. The fish around here are very good at taking the bait and running into the trees and I need to be able to force it out a bit.

I prefer a 7' over 6'6", it just works better for me.

I have looked at several other posts, and I noted Roadwarrior's choice of the ES70MF but I can't bring myself to spend that much. It did have some effect on my choices above though (the possible choice of the M instead of MH).

I'm not set on the St. Croix and wouldn't mind something similar from G. Loomis. The Loomis has an advantage in that I can get them at a local store.

However, I don't care for BPS products (except for the lighter rods). I haven't had any luck with their quality.

Shimano rods haven't really impressed me all that much either, but that might be because of my previous price range.

A lot of info to weed through, but I would appreciate any inputs.

Thanks in advance.

[Chris at Tech]

If the AC70MF is similar to the AC66MF, I don't think this would be a good worm rod.  But I've never handled one, so I can't tell for sure.

There are several good choices at the $170 pricepoint as well...

[roadwarrior]

If the AC70MF is similar to the AC66MF, I don't think this would be a good worm rod.

The AC70MHXF has a firmer tip. That is the "key."

http://www.reedssports.com/Product.taf?_function=detail&_ID=4191

$153 after discount, no sales tax and no shipping charges.

[Taliesin]

Ok Roadwarrior... Now I am confused...

In the Topwater thread earlier, you stated:

Maybe this will help, maybe not:

These are the St. Croix I OWN and will describe:

Avid AS66MLF:

Medium light as described. Moderately fast action, but with a very soft tip. Can be used for all light MOVING lures and live bait. Is NOT appropriate for soft plastics, jigs or anything requiring a quick/ firm hook-set.

Avid AC66MF:

Closer to Medium Heavy Power of other brands. Moderately fast action, but with a very soft tip. Can be used for all medium weight treble hooks AND spinnerbaits, buzzbaits and blades. Is NOT appropriate for soft plastics, jigs or anything requiring a quick/ firm hook-set. Note: Once the tip is loaded, this rod is VERY responsive and has enough backbone to control most freshwater fish.

Legend Elite ES70MF:

Medium Heavy Power as compared to other brands. Fast Action and a FIRM tip. EXCELLENT for soft plastics and light to medium weight jigs. Could be used as an all-around rod. I would think the baitcasting twin EC70MF would have identical characteristics.

Now I know the price range might be part of it, but you are suggesting the AC70MHXF when you use the ES70MF?

[Red]

i have never owned or held a high end rod, but the powell rods look nice and they are in your price range

http://www.powellco.com/

Cliff

[roadwarrior]

For topwater and ALL TREBLE HOOK lures, I suggest Moderate or Slow Action OR (as in the case of the AC66MF) a SOFT tip.

For jigs and soft plastics a FIRM tip is mandatory. I believe the AC70MHXF has a FIRM tip, but if that is not the case you should consider a different rod.

This thread might help clear up the confusion:

http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1141187546

[brgbassmaster]

i use a 7-0ft mh fenwick venture for flipping jigs and plastics best rod i ever used for that got great feel and amazing back bone. i can pull fish out off thick weeds to trees.

[Bass Hammer]

MHXF (703) will do it.

[Catt]

At $179.95

Shimano Crucial CRC-X610MH: Length: 6' 10, Line: 10-20 lb, Lure: 3/8-3/4, Power: Medium Heavy, Action: Extra Fast

[Chris at Tech]

At $179.95

Shimano Crucial CRC-X610MH: Length: 6' 10, Line: 10-20 lb, Lure: 3/8-3/4, Power: Medium Heavy, Action: Extra Fast

Hey Catt, where are you paying $179 for a Crucial?  Hopefully, you just mistyped, because this rod can be had for $139 nearly everywhere I've seen

Also take a look at the Dobyns 683C or 703C at the $170 pricepoint.

[Catt]

The listed price at Academy but I actually paid $34.88  

[Taliesin]

Thanks for all the help.

I ended up getting a G. Loomis Mossyback BCR853. 7' 1" MH XF. It's part of their "jig & worm" series.

My "local" tacklestore (40 miles away) gave me a 10% discount from the sticker price. Got it for $198.

Roadwarrior:

My confusion from the topwater thread was from the end of your list where you stated you used the ES70MF for your plastics and light jigs, but you were suggesting I try the AC70MHXF.

My first thoughts were agreeing with the AC70MHXF (and i ended up with something very similar), but your use of the ES70MF confused me.