Looking to buy an all-purpose jig/worm rod. 7-7 ft 3 in. Which of these is the lightest and most sensitive? I will be using it for senkos, swim jigs and football jigs mostly.
Champion>Avid>GL2, in sensitivity. The Champion and Avid are very similar in terms of weight, the GL2 is a brick. There's other rods in those price ranges that are lighter and more sensitive, but the Champion is the best all-around out of those three. Granted, it costs the most by a pretty good margin as well.
I choose Avid. Period , I have 2 gl2 a 7'5" heavy and a 7' 1" MH.... I got both these both @ 65% less than retail.... I would never pay even close to retail for them, why? The Avid is a very good rod, now SCIII in Mexico? It just doesn't feel anywhere close to USA SCIII, the gl2 is just not a 200$ rod!
Can't speak to Dobyns...
Any votes for gl2? For some reason I really want to try g loomis. How about the mossyback or bronze back? They're not out of my price range. I am considering dobyns. They're definitely quality rods.
The rod will be paired with a shimano chronarch or daiwa tatula type r
On 7/29/2014 at 12:08 AM, Tywithay said:Champion>Avid>GL2, in sensitivity. The Champion and Avid are very similar in terms of weight, the GL2 is a brick. There's other rods in those price ranges that are lighter and more sensitive, but the Champion is the best all-around out of those three. Granted, it costs the most by a pretty good margin as well.
x2
Well I used loomis CBR x 2 in 99 and 2000, Alconites, outstanding rods ! I used them 10 years and got about 60% of my money back... It's just a considerable diffrence between the JWR and other blends by Loomis, a lot has changed since Shimano bought Loomis, there really are a lot of choices. If you like, get the loomis and give it a whirl... I like mine ok, at the price I gave, only you can be sure, you maybe pleasantly surprised!
Good luck! It can be daunting on the Rod selection, no doubt.
What sort of price range are you looking for? If you're actually going to drop $260 on a Champion, you can do better for a worm/jig rod. I think all the rods you have listed are sort of average sensitivity-wise. Not bad, but not great. I would throw the 13 *** into the mix as well.
Ideally, I'd say call Valley Sports and see what sort of price you can get on a DX743/4.
On 7/29/2014 at 1:07 AM, BasshunterJGH said:Any votes for gl2? For some reason I really want to try g loomis. How about the mossyback or bronze back? They're not out of my price range. I am considering dobyns. They're definitely quality rods.
The mossyback is a good rod.I have one and like it just fine. One that hasn't been mentioned is one of my absolute favorites. The GL3. I have 3 GLX's, an NRX, an IMX, mossyback, spinnerbait rod, and 3 GL3's.
Nearly every trip what goes with me is 2 GLX's, and 2 GL3'S. My NRX and Core 100mg7 stays in the rack most of the time...and before anyone asks, no you can't have it...lol.
Hootie
In my opinion, the GL2 is out, but it's a dead heat between Champion and Avid.
Move up to St Croix Legend Tournament and we've got a clear winner (only $10 more than Champion 7' 3")
Roger
On 7/29/2014 at 12:08 AM, Tywithay said:Champion>Avid>GL2, in sensitivity. The Champion and Avid are very similar in terms of weight, the GL2 is a brick. There's other rods in those price ranges that are lighter and more sensitive, but the Champion is the best all-around out of those three. Granted, it costs the most by a pretty good margin as well.
x3
G.Loomis GL2
LMB KING just reminded me of Kistlers, now Gary Loomis is making rod blanks and the KLX is well liked, in fact, I need to see if they are caught up on stock, I been meaning to order one!
The man, not G. Loomis
On 7/29/2014 at 2:56 AM, Alonerankin2 said:LMB KING just reminded me of Kistlers, now Gary Loomis is making rod blanks and the KLX is well liked, in fact, I need to see if they are caught up on stock, I been meaning to order one!
The man, not G. Loomis
He doesn't care about Gary loomis making rods for Kistlers lol. Plus i dont see Kistlers being one of his options. irrelevant.
On 7/29/2014 at 3:07 AM, LMB KING said:He doesn't care about Gary loomis making rods for Kistlers lol. Plus i dont see Kistlers being one of his options. irrelevant.
Why Don't you let him decide if it's irrevelant.
I couldn't care less about you're opinion !
Just out curiosity, why do you put the gl2 over the avid and champ?On 7/29/2014 at 2:49 AM, LMB KING said:G.Loomis GL2
On 7/29/2014 at 12:08 AM, Tywithay said:Champion>Avid>GL2, in sensitivity. The Champion and Avid are very similar in terms of weight, the GL2 is a brick. There's other rods in those price ranges that are lighter and more sensitive, but the Champion is the best all-around out of those three. Granted, it costs the most by a pretty good margin as well.
X4 or 5 ^^good post
I will add in my comparison, owning and fishing the champ versus handling a friends avid with reel mounted. The champion balances better. In my experience St. Croix run more tip heavy (even the LTB) than Dobyns and it only has been handling St. Croix enough of an experience to not consider them ever. I will also add that you can find Champions closer to the price of the other two if you look around. As far as loomis goes, I have yet to really hold one with a reel mounted and respect the reputation it has made. I would probably go IMX instead of GL2 if you went that route. Look for the older IMX you could find them at GL2 prices a few months ago.
On 7/29/2014 at 3:16 AM, aprw1 said:Just out curiosity, why do you put the gl2 over the avid and champ?
Its just my preference.
On 7/29/2014 at 3:38 AM, LMB KING said:Stop getting your feeling hurt. The man wants to know which of g.loomis, dobyns or st. croix would be good for his fishing. I dont see Kistler here.
Read all the posts, several post have suggested other rods as well, I didn't get my feelings hurt, I have none... Just offering other good alternatives,
That's all... It's not all Black And White.
On 7/29/2014 at 3:39 AM, LMB KING said:Its just my preference.
Based on what? Have you actually used any of these rods?
On 7/29/2014 at 3:49 AM, Jrob78 said:Based on what? Have you actually used any of these rods?
If you pay attention to my other posts you will see that i have used them. I also know that you want me to say why its my preference so all of you can start an argument so all I am going to say is that its just my preference.
On 7/29/2014 at 3:50 AM, LMB KING said:Don't get mad too easily. Take a deep breath. No need to insult people like saying " I could care less about your opinion".
Humm, I recall you stating FIRST, my post on just a simple referral as IRREVELANT seems you're a bit confused on who insulted who, what, where, and when... So quote me.... I won't respond back... You may have the last word. I will not highjack the OP's thread on Rods choice, most of us here simply try to assist other folks.
On 7/29/2014 at 4:01 AM, Alonerankin2 said:Humm, I recall you stating FIRST, my post on just a simple referral as IRREVELANT seems you're a bit confused on who insulted who, what, where, and when... So quote me.... I won't respond back... You may have the last word. I will not highjack the OP's thread on Rods choice, most of us here simply try to assist other folks.
your feelings are soft. You need to calm down and not be a crybaby.
On 7/29/2014 at 4:09 AM, LMB KING said:your feelings are soft. You need to calm down and not be a crybaby.
I lied, as stated before I couldn't care less on You're opinion.
Alonerankin2, just let it go. He's not going to quit. Can't help it....lol.
Hootie
On 7/29/2014 at 3:53 AM, LMB KING said:If you pay attention to my other posts you will see that i have used them. I also know that you want me to say why its my preference so all of you can start an argument so all I am going to say is that its just my preference.
All 3 are good rods. I'm not trying to start an argument. I just wondered if you had owned all 3 casting rods in question and if so, why you liked 1 over the others. No need to get your feelings hurt.
On 7/29/2014 at 4:15 AM, Jrob78 said:All 3 are good rods. I'm not trying to start an argument. I just wondered if you had owned all 3 casting rods in question and if so, why you liked 1 over the others. No need to get your feelings hurt.
yeaa sureeee!!
On 7/29/2014 at 4:20 AM, LMB KING said:yeaa sureeee!!
I don't understand why people want to instigate arguments. The OP was wanting an honest opinion from members of this forum, and I believe that Alonerankin2 just wanted to give another option that hadn't been brought up. For all we know, the OP could try out the suggestion of Alonerankin2 and like it better than the others mentioned, leading him to be happier with his choice. Now, to the OP, I have never used a St. Croix, but I have used the Dobyns and the GL2, both of which you asked about. The Dobyns is hands down 5 times the rod the GL2 is. I have heard a lot of good things about the St. Croixs as well, I don't think you could go wrong with the Dobyns or the St. Croix, but there would be a lot left desired if you went with the GL2. I do not own any of those rods anymore, as all of my rods now are customs and great sticks, that are even at a lower price than all of the above mentioned. If you would be interested in a custom rod, shoot me a PM, but as stated earlier in my post, you would not be disappointed with the St. Croix or Dobyns.
On 7/29/2014 at 4:39 AM, JGBassinAL said:I don't understand why people want to instigate arguments. The OP was wanting an honest opinion from members of this forum, and I believe that Alonerankin2 just wanted to give another option that hadn't been brought up. For all we know, the OP could try out the suggestion of Alonerankin2 and like it better than the others mentioned, leading him to be happier with his choice. Now, to the OP, I have never used a St. Croix, but I have used the Dobyns and the GL2, both of which you asked about. The Dobyns is hands down 5 times the rod the GL2 is. I have heard a lot of good things about the St. Croixs as well, I don't think you could go wrong with the Dobyns or the St. Croix, but there would be a lot left desired if you went with the GL2. I do not own any of those rods anymore, as all of my rods now are customs and great sticks, that are even at a lower price than all of the above mentioned. If you would be interested in a custom rod, shoot me a PM, but as stated earlier in my post, you would not be disappointed with the St. Croix or Dobyns.
Saying that dobyns is better than Gl2 is preference, just like i take the gl2 as my preference. The reason why i get upset and about people saying another brand is because alot of people want those specific rods. If a forum member wants a loomis or a st,croix than thats what he is looking for. Stop trying to force another brand of change their mind. If someone only has two brands of company rods, then give him info on only those rods he ask for. Thats the reason why alot of people dont know what they want these day because you have 20 thousands people saying different things. The thread starter member said that he wants to try a G. loomis rod and i have a g.loomis rods and also used st,croix and dobyns so i am giving a valid statement. For my experience i prefer the G.Loomis GL2 better and thats just for my experience. Every body has different taste so i try not to force them into another brand. (you get what iam saying) If he wants to hear about st,croix, dobyns and loomis then lets help with those preference of his choice. I hate forums where a person is asking for 2 or 3 product and he get reply's from 20 other products. Thats not helping at all, thats just confusing him more and unhelping him with his decision.
A Picture's Worth A Thousand Words
(Yes...I've owned them all)
St Croix Legend Tournament
Dobyns Champion <> St Croix Avid
Loomis GL2
Roger
I own a couple of Champions, and a few Avids. In terms of sensitivity I cannot tell much difference. Where there is a big difference is in balance, and the Dobyns wins that category easily. Both rods have very good build quality and use good components. The Dobyns is a 250 dollar rod and the St. Croix is about 190, I don't know if there is that much difference between them but I personally prefer the Dobyns.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:10 AM, LMB KING said:Saying that dobyns is better than Gl2 is preference, just like i take the gl2 as my preference. The reason why i get upset and about people saying another brand is because alot of people want those specific rods. If a forum member wants a loomis or a st,croix than thats what he is looking for. Stop trying to force another brand of change their mind. If someone only has two brands of company rods, then give him info on only those rods he ask for. Thats the reason why alot of people dont know what they want these day because you have 20 thousands people saying different things. The thread starter member said that he wants to try a G. loomis rod and i have a g.loomis rods and also used st,croix and dobyns so i am giving a valid statement. For my experience i prefer the G.Loomis GL2 better and thats just for my experience. Every body has different taste so i try not to force them into another brand. (you get what iam saying) If he wants to hear about st,croix, dobyns and loomis then lets help with those preference of his choice. I hate forums where a person is asking for 2 or 3 product and he get reply's from 20 other products. Thats not helping at all, thats just confusing him more and unhelping him with his decision.
I hate forums where members "attack" other members for giving a different suggestion. But since you did, here you go. I find it hard to believe that you have used all three and prefer the GL2 over the others. I would rather save the $170 and use an ugly stick. That's just my preference. This is the only time that I will say anything like that, I just felt after the responses you made towards Alonerankin2 that this post was needed. I'm sure everyone here will agree except you.
I have not fished the Dobyns but it looks like a fine rod. Between the GL2 and the Avid, I would pick the Avid.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:27 AM, JGBassinAL said:I hate forums where members "attack" other members for giving a different suggestion. But since you did, here you go. I find it hard to believe that you have used all three and prefer the GL2 over the others. I would rather save the $170 and use an ugly stick. That's just my preference. This is the only time that I will say anything like that, I just felt after the responses you made towards Alonerankin2 that this post was needed. I'm sure everyone here will agree except you.
I dont care if everybody agree with you or not. Thats just my preference. Its funny how when other people prefer other rods than the ones you guys like, y'all use excuses like "i dont believe you used them all or why you prefer other over the other. lol. theirs other brand that exists as well you know!!!. Its not only shimano and st,croix that exist. All of you need to be more open minded about other brands. I am done here.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:37 AM, LMB KING said:I dont care if everybody agree with you or not. Thats just my preference. Its funny how when other people prefer other rods than the ones you guys like, y'all use excuses like "i dont believe you used them all or why you prefer other over the other. lol. theirs other brand that exists as well you know!!!. Its not only shimano and st,croix that exist. All of you need to be more open minded about other brands. I am done here.
LMB KING
There are two threads that I have seen you post in. One being this one, and the other being the huge thread about Quantum being popular. In both of those threads, you are the one who got your panties in a wad. I know that there is more than Shimano and St. Croix. As stated in one of my above posts, I have never even used St. Croix. So obviously I know that other brands exist. I will admit that I do have trouble arguing with you though because of your grammar, I didn't know that you could "unhelp" someone. Ok, I'm done.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:27 AM, JGBassinAL said:I hate forums where members "attack" other members for giving a different suggestion. But since you did, here you go. I find it hard to believe that you have used all three and prefer the GL2 over the others. I would rather save the $170 and use an ugly stick. That's just my preference. This is the only time that I will say anything like that, I just felt after the responses you made towards Alonerankin2 that this post was needed. I'm sure everyone here will agree except you.
Agreed.
Hootie
LMB, I am glad you're done, and I might add, you missed the whole entity of this thread... That being, we comment on what we know to be true, and state when we don't, this forum has a great amount of very knowledgable fisherman that are willing to expand ever so slightly to HELP a OP, you also discounted his mental ability to read the responses and to either discount them or give them merit.
You guys are the definition of Pure Ignorance.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:52 AM, LMB KING said:You guys are the definition of Pure Ignorance.
Do you know what Ignorance means? A lack of knowledge, You Sir, have already shown this!
There is a song by Led Belly that I can't remember the name of, anyone know it?
On 7/29/2014 at 5:52 AM, LMB KING said:You guys are the definition of Pure Ignorance.
The best part of your posts are the chuckles I get from the irony in your sig.
Let me start the thread over.....
G Loomis GL2 vs Dobyns Champion vs St. Croix Avid
A. G Loomis GL2
B. Dobyns Champion
C. St. Croix Avid
D. Sorry you can only pick one of the above
On 7/29/2014 at 5:55 AM, Alonerankin2 said:Do you know what Ignorance means? A lack of knowledge, You Sir, have already shown this!
Oh yes and show alot of knowledge. If you really think you have knowledge then we all might as well be vegetables.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:52 AM, LMB KING said:You guys are the definition of Pure Ignorance.
Ignorance is bliss, not pure my friend. I admit that I am confused on why you are still replying to our posts if we are ignorant. Your signature does say "IGNORE THE IGNORANT..." Notice that in none of our posts has any of us personally attacked you, yet you continue to do it. Well, other than my post about your grammar, but teachers correct grammar all the time so I feel as I was trying to "help" you not attack you.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:57 AM, Jrob78 said:The best part of your posts are the chuckles I get from the irony in your sig.
We were definitely on the same page here
Rough week. First Quantum, then tungsten, now this. Can't we all just get along?
On 7/29/2014 at 5:58 AM, LMB KING said:Oh yes and show alot of knowledge. If you really think you have knowledge then we all might as well be vegetables.
I have to be to communicate with you ( Veggie)
On 7/29/2014 at 5:58 AM, LMB KING said:Oh yes and show alot of knowledge.
Huh?
On 7/29/2014 at 5:58 AM, LMB KING said:. If you really think you have knowledge then we all might as well be vegetables.
You're getting closer...that almost made sense...almost.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:52 AM, LMB KING said:You guys are the definition of Pure Ignorance.
Well there's the pot calling the kettle black.
On 7/29/2014 at 5:37 AM, LMB KING said:I am done here.
Don't let us down.
On 7/29/2014 at 6:00 AM, JGBassinAL said:We were definitely on the same page here
C'mon guys, can't you see by now that being obnoxious is all he is here for...I'm guessing 15 or 16 years old...lol.
Hootie
This is like the 4th or 5th time with this guy. First it was the world record bass being caught in FL. Then it was spinning gear is better than casting gear, 2 or 3 times. The Quantum thread from the other day and now this. It's clear what the common denominator is.
On 7/29/2014 at 6:17 AM, Jrob78 said:This is like the 4th or 5th time with this guy. First it was the world record bass being caught in FL. Then it was spinning gear is better than casting gear, 2 or 3 times. The Quantum thread from the other day and now this. It's clear what the common denominator is.
As a Vegtable, I couldn't agree more.... Nice!
I was obviously very wrong, my picture was followed by another 1000 words
Roger
My two cents.....
Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r
On 7/29/2014 at 7:33 AM, BasshunterJGH said:Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r
Sweet BasshunterJGH! Let us know how you like it and if you have any other questions we would all be glad to help!
There was a good and interesting post going here until a couple of self-centered types messed it up. Hopefully a moderator will kill it soon so the original poster can start anew.
On 7/29/2014 at 7:33 AM, BasshunterJGH said:Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r
My apologies for the mess in your thread. I'm glad you decided on a rod, I'm sure you will be very happy with it. Be sure to let us know how you like it.
There was a good and interesting post going here until a couple of self-centered types messed it up. Hopefully a moderator will kill it soon so the original poster can start anew.
I hear rave praise for that rod!
Good luck! & tight lines too you!
You will enjoy the Dobyns, take a look at the 734C, it is a very versatile rod in that lineup.
Thanks I just checked out TWs description of the 734 sounds like a very versatile rod. Do u prefer the split grip or full handle? I know it's just opinion but I don't really have a preference. Any thoughts?
Some guys absolutely hate split grips. I prefer them. I cast with 2 hands and that butt grip makes a perfect handle for me. It really does just boil down to personal preference though.
I'm a St. Croix Avid user, but you'll be happy with that Dobyns.
As far as split versus full handle; if you've used split-grip rods before, and you are not sure if you should get a split-grip rod, you will probably be perfectly happy with one... meaning, if you really didn't like a split grip, you'd know it. (I say this as someone who doesn't like them, btw) I know some are better than others based on the length of the handle and the space between the grips, but people that don't like them tend to hate them across the board.
If you haven't used a split-grip rod, it would be nice to chuck a few baits with one before you invest in a rod that has them. The problem is when you handle a rod at a store, you kind of wave it around in one hand. The time a split-grip bothers people is when you put both hands on the grips to really sling a bait. With a 734, I imagine you'll be making a variety of casts. I can't speak to how the different grip options might change the balance of that rod. In any case, if you are younger, it probably won't bother you, because you haven't been using the full handle for 100 years like me. Us old dudes are not always receptive to change.
I prefer full grips, but, like you said, it is personal preference.On 7/29/2014 at 8:10 AM, BasshunterJGH said:Thanks I just checked out TWs description of the 734 sounds like a very versatile rod. Do u prefer the split grip or full handle? I know it's just opinion but I don't really have a preference. Any thoughts?
I have a good mixture of both and enjoy fishing them all. But I guess in the end that I am a little old fashioned in this respect and prefer the full grip, especially with any technique where longer casts are a benefit.
I would go to a sporting goods store and put your hands on some full and split grips. Doesn't necessarily have to be Dobyns. Just make some pretend casting motions with a reel attached, fake hooksets, etc. Try to get a feel for what you prefer. I'm a full grip guy myself. I think they're more comfortable, and the few extra grams in the lower section of the rod improve the balance slightly.
I have both but I prefer the full grip. I said I hated a full grip until I used one. Like tywithay said, try to go to a store and handle both and see which you prefer. I still use both but if I had a choice, I would go full grip.
I like split grips, not sure why I don't like full grips. It just feel natural to me, but it is all preference. I think it would be wise to hold split grip rods and full grips no matter the brand and figure out which feels right for you.
Whether there is 'cork' or 'air' between my hands,
I wouldn't even know without looking down to see.
All other things equal, the Split-Grip rod is going to weigh less (no excess baggage).
Aesthetically speaking, a split-grip rod doesn't have that pool-cue look.
Roger
On 7/29/2014 at 8:10 AM, BasshunterJGH said:Thanks I just checked out TWs description of the 734 sounds like a very versatile rod. Do u prefer the split grip or full handle? I know it's just opinion but I don't really have a preference. Any thoughts?
Lighter reel, full grip,
Heavier reel, split group
General rule of thumb. So sayeth the vegetable who has no knowledge...
Only way to really decide is to go to a store and man-handle some full and split grips, you don't need to make a preference to set for life but it should point you in the right direction before you buy
On 7/29/2014 at 7:33 AM, BasshunterJGH said:Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r
I read this post and responded before getting to the last post, I'm sorry.
I agree with what has been stated full and split grip are preference. Most of the standard Champion rods are offered with the choice between the two for this reason. My personal preference is full grip. It hangs up on sweatshirt pockets less when switching hands and is just plain a comfort deal for me.
Either way I think you will love the 734 if you go with it. Have fun
No matter what rod or reel combination you should try it in a shop if you want to determine it's balance with any reel, to be sure of what you are putting together. The split handle does almost nothing to balance a rod over the full handle, I have tried this and you can in a store, just take a reel that is over 1 oz different and it wont move the balance point 1/8", it will be so little to hardly notice. The missing cork in a typical split grip approx 5" is only about 1/10 oz. and Eva foam is oh so slightly lighter as to be of no notice. if you need to add weight to any rod to balance it, most would be very surprised just how much it takes if you don't move the reel seat. But if you move the reel location 1/8" the difference is huge. Best to try it before you buy it to avoid unpleasant surprises, especially when you start paying over $200.00 to add a rod to your favorite reel to create your perfect setup!! The difference in split or full grip alone, on the same rods, means very little when you are changing a rods balance point regardless of the reel.
and good choice, the GL2 is a rod I would never recamend, I personally like the Avid but if you like the split grip's, you will be very happy you didn't buy the GL2. Enjoy!