Why St. Croix!! 2024
Capt.Bob reply :
I leave no doubt, regardless of the tactic your using, St. Croix makes the rod you need. I feel St. Croix has the best CS in the business and make the "VERY BEST RODS ON THE PLANET", and Premier and up are "100% MADE IN THE USA BY AMERICAN CRAFTSMAN", and there are none better than the Legend Extreme, Elite, and Tournament are as good as it get's.
This year I had a problem with one,,,,,,,their first year Legend Elite!! I bought this rod and every since it has been my favorite Small Mouth and Walleye rod. I also use this rod every year for Walleye in the largest tributary to the great lakes as a Carolina rigged floating jig rod for Walleye, for over 14 years it has been abused and landed fish well over 15 lbs. in this white water river environment. This year about 2 weeks ago, as the end of the run was on us, I hooked an egg sucking Quill Back Carp, not a big one, about 6 lbs. but almost to me and one excited flurry and I was hand lining him in on a rod that was now in three pieces!
I made the call to St. Croix and their first question was,,,, what is the serial no.,,,,, I had no idea and it's not on the rod, but it was a EC66MFCS and after she learned the rod was over 14 years old, she said that had to be made the first year the introduced the Legend Elite Series. So she said send it in and $20.00 for return shipping and they would decide what was going to be done. I got the letter Saturday and was very shocked!!! They want another $55.00!!! But that is to send me their latest LES66MF a $330.00 rod for my $290.00 14 year old rod that I had beat the crap out of for all those years, and the 2013 model is better material better tappers, and well worth the 55 bucks to trade up, that is why they are not only the best rods in the world, but the "BEST BACKED RODS IN THE WORLD". I think last year our own roadwarrior had a similar experience with St. Croix Customer Service. This is why I say you can buy more expensive rods, or less expensive rods, "BUT YOU CAN'T BUY BETTER ROD'S OR BETTER BACKED ROD'S AT ANY PRICE" and best of all knowing they are "MADE IN THE USA BY AMERICANS" By Wed. I should have a brand new 6'6" MF spinning rod to replace a rod that was over 14 years old and this one is as GOOD AS IT GET'S!!
flyfisher reply :
Yeah they basically made you use their gold star service which is basically for $75 no matter what the damage they will replace it.
Also technically not all rods above the premier are made in the USA as the Mojo series is made in mexico as are the Rage series. And i am a big St Croix fan too....but Kistler is starting to get my attention as well.
J Francho reply :
Love my Saint Croix sticks!
kickerfish1 reply :
Other than the "American" portion of St. Croix rods the rest of what you are saying is purely subjective. Best performance, price, warranty, and customer service is debatable.
While I don't have an issue with St. Croix rods, I don't think they are night and day better than comparable offerings from other companies.
Capt.Bob reply :
14 years ago I bought my first Legend Elite and my first Loomis IMX, as a Lake Erie Guide I have fished most everything out there,,,,,,,I own over 20 St. Croix's today, Avid's, Legend Elites, Legend Tournament, Legend Extreme's, Lend Ultra, along with a couple premiers, and 1 Loomis, I don't see that changing!!! I may suggest to others "FOR THE MONEY" but to me I don't care about price, it's the quality I want. and I love knowing my money is putting Americans to work!!!
roadwarrior reply :
Like Capt. Bob, I bought one of the first Legend Elite, ES70MF. The handle came lose and the rest is the same story
the Capitan just told. I now own their latest/ greatest model practically for free! I also own an EC70MHF, AVC70MM and
AVS66MLF. I have always been a St. Croix fan and rate their Customer Service a dead solid 10.
Jig Man reply :
I'm on the other end of the stick. I bought 4 St Croix Avids at BPS. They are no where near my Gloomis rods. If I had do overs I'd leave them where I found them.
flyfisher reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 3:08 AM, Jig Man said:I'm on the other end of the stick. I bought 4 St Croix Avids at BPS. They are no where near my Gloomis rods. If I had do overs I'd leave them where I found them.
Just curious but which GLoomis rods are you comparing the avids to?
rockchalk06 reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 3:08 AM, Jig Man said:I'm on the other end of the stick. I bought 4 St Croix Avids at BPS. They are no where near my Gloomis rods. If I had do overs I'd leave them where I found them.
My GL2's are nice rods, but the Avid is more sensitive and lighter
J Francho reply :
I own both Avid and the new GL2. They are about par with each other. Both are very good rods.
rockchalk06 reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 3:38 AM, J Francho said:I own both Avid and the new GL2. They are about par with each other. Both are very good rods.
You think so? My GL2's both 7'1" H&MH run about 6-7 ounces and the Avid about 4.5. Sensitivity is about the same, very good for both but I can notice a bit better with my Avid.
J Francho reply :
I don't really notice the difference in weight. The only time I really take notice is when I pick up my Dobyns Champ Extreme 744c. It's VERY light for such a big stick. I do notice on both rod brands, the wrong reel can make either feel like a heavy, unbalanced cane pole, or a well oiled fishing machine. I hated my AVC70MHF until I found the right reel for it - a TD-X103HSDL.
PABASS reply :
One of my oldest rods is a St.Croix still use it today and I remember the day I got it back in 1997, still paired with my Calcutta and just used it this weekend!! I own a bunch and enjoy them all..
JunkYard814 reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 3:08 AM, Jig Man said:I'm on the other end of the stick. I bought 4 St Croix Avids at BPS. They are no where near my Gloomis rods. If I had do overs I'd leave them where I found them.
Why did you buy four of them?
Capt.Bob reply :
I personally find the rods made in Mexico (Rage, Mojo Eyecon, etc) are comparable to the GL2 and GL3 rods, If you compare a NRX to an Avid it's like comparing a GL2 to a Legend Extreme,,,,, 
not what one call apples to apples!!! St. Croix unlike some,,,, makes a rod to compare to any rod built, Triumph to Lightning rod or NRX to Legend Elite and Extreme, IMX and GLX to Legend Tournament and so on. Far to many want to compare a $400.00 rod to a $200.00 Rod, It is hard to compare any rod costing less than $200.00 to a $180.00 Avid. I think the Avid far better than it's price, and the only way to compare any rod to a Legend Elite is fugal, sensitivity, weight, durability, and most of all as I said in the beginning NO ONE BACKS EM BETTER!!!!! It will take 14 years of hard use and dozens of upgrades to the same model to find out if they come close!!!! 
I did! 
Delaware Valley Tackle reply :
St Croix also has the most robust lineup out there. There's something for any technique and any reasonable budget. Plus, they are not afraid to keep their blanks available to custom builders.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 5:49 AM, Delaware Valley Tackle said:St Croix also has the most robust lineup out there. There's something for any technique and any reasonable budget. Plus, they are not afraid to keep their blanks available to custom builders.
That is a really good point about the Blanks available to custom builders. This is a great way to own one of the finest rods on the planet, and have it exactly "THE WAY YOU WANT IT!! ",,,, and there are some very good builders out their that are no more expensive than if you bought it factory made, and still have that "LIFTIME WARRANTY" Best of all world's!! "YOUR WAY" and still ***100% AMERICAN MADE***
.RM. reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 1:42 AM, Capt.Bob said:I leave no doubt, regardless of the tactic your using, St. Croix makes the rod you need. I feel St. Croix has the best CS in the business and make the "VERY BEST RODS ON THE PLANET", and Premier and up are "100% MADE IN THE USA BY AMERICAN CRAFTSMAN", and there are none better than the Legend Extreme, Elite, and Tournament are as good as it get's.
This year I had a problem with one,,,,,,,their first year Legend Elite!! I bought this rod and every since it has been my favorite Small Mouth and Walleye rod. I also use this rod every year for Walleye in the largest tributary to the great lakes as a Carolina rigged floating jig rod for Walleye, for over 14 years it has been abused and landed fish well over 15 lbs. in this white water river environment. This year about 2 weeks ago, as the end of the run was on us, I hooked an egg sucking Quill Back Carp, not a big one, about 6 lbs. but almost to me and one excited flurry and I was hand lining him in on a rod that was now in three pieces!
I made the call to St. Croix and their first question was,,,, what is the serial no.,,,,, I had no idea and it's not on the rod, but it was a EC66MFCS and after she learned the rod was over 14 years old, she said that had to be made the first year the introduced the Legend Elite Series. So she said send it in and $20.00 for return shipping and they would decide what was going to be done. I got the letter Saturday and was very shocked!!! They want another $55.00!!! But that is to send me their latest LES66MF a $330.00 rod for my $290.00 14 year old rod that I had beat the crap out of for all those years, and the 2013 model is better material better tappers, and well worth the 55 bucks to trade up, that is why they are not only the best rods in the world, but the "BEST BACKED RODS IN THE WORLD". I think last year our own roadwarrior had a similar experience with St. Croix Customer Service. This is why I say you can buy more expensive rods, or less expensive rods, "BUT YOU CAN'T BUY BETTER ROD'S OR BETTER BACKED ROD'S AT ANY PRICE" and best of all knowing they are "MADE IN THE USA BY AMERICANS" By Wed. I should have a brand new 6'6" MF spinning rod to replace a rod that was over 14 years old and this one is as GOOD AS IT GET'S!!
X2..... 
My favorite blanks to build customs on...
Tight Lines! 
thehooligan reply :
Ive had a few st croix rods and liked them, but i definitely think theres better options out there for the money. Id much rather be fishing a cumulus, cumara or dobyns extreme.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 9:44 AM, thehooligan said:Ive had a few st croix rods and liked them, but i definitely think theres better options out there for the money. Id much rather be fishing a cumulus, cumara or dobyns extreme.
I prefer the rods made here in the U.S. and found in the long run they generally hold up over the test of time, over the YEARS the St. Croix's have proven this for me. I don't think rods should be considered terminal tackle. Once I used a Legend Elite and Extreme, the difference was obvious.
lmbfisherman reply :
Glad you like your St. Croix, but even though "Shimano" owns G Loomis, they are also all made in Woodland, Washington. Just to point out St. Croix isn't the only "Made in America".
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 11:42 AM, lmbfisherman said:Glad you like your St. Croix, but even though "Shimano" owns G Loomis, they are also all made in Woodland, Washington. Just to point out St. Croix isn't the only "Made in America".
Quite correct, so are Falcon, Crowder, Castaway, All Star, Esox and so on, but after my experience with both the St. Croix and high end Loomis, I made my choice, after dealing with both for warranty, and fishing them, I am very happy with my choice.
skeletor6 reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 1:42 AM, Capt.Bob said:I feel St. Croix has the best CS in the business and make the "VERY BEST RODS ON THE PLANET", and Premier and up are "100% MADE IN THE USA BY AMERICAN CRAFTSMAN", and there are none better than the Legend Extreme, Elite, and Tournament are as good as it get's.
I made the call to St. Croix and their first question was,,,, what is the serial no.,,,,, I had no idea and it's not on the rod, but it was a EC66MFCS and after she learned the rod was over 14 years old, she said that had to be made the first year the introduced the Legend Elite Series. So she said send it in and $20.00 for return shipping and they would decide what was going to be done. I got the letter Saturday and was very shocked!!! They want another $55.00!!! But that is to send me their latest LES66MF a $330.00 rod for my $290.00 14 year old rod that I had beat the crap out of for all those years, and the 2013 model is better material better tappers, and well worth the 55 bucks to trade up, that is why they are not only the best rods in the world, but the "BEST BACKED RODS IN THE WORLD". I think last year our own roadwarrior had a similar experience with St. Croix Customer Service. This is why I say you can buy more expensive rods, or less expensive rods, "BUT YOU CAN'T BUY BETTER ROD'S OR BETTER BACKED ROD'S AT ANY PRICE" and best of all knowing they are "MADE IN THE USA BY AMERICANS" By Wed. I should have a brand new 6'6" MF spinning rod to replace a rod that was over 14 years old and this one is as GOOD AS IT GET'S!!
I bolded and increased the font size from 24pt to 12pt on the statements that I would like to comment on.
First off, I would like to say that I am happy that St. Croix honored their warranty and it made you so blatantly happy. From all accounts I have heard of, this is common from their company and is a reason why people choose St. Croix. I personally would feel uncomfortable fishing with an unwarranted $300 rod. From my knowledge, most rods in that price range come with pretty decent warranties. Some better than others, but warranties nonetheless. Who has the best "backing" of their rods is a matter of opinion.
I am also in favor of having American made products. Conversely, it is not weighed heavily on my purchase decisions. Thus, if a higher performing rod is offered in the same price range, I will get the one that performs better. This brings up my question, are you...
1.) Claiming that St. Croix makes the "very best rods on the planet" because they were made in the USA?.
2.) Claiming they are the best rods in the planet?
If statement 1, then there are far less competitors. If statement 2, then I just feel that you do not have the exposure to the other rods on the market. For instance,
Avid MSRP $190-$240...Dobyns Champion, Cumara, new Crucials, Phenix Recon/M1...etc.
Tournament MSRP $250-$280.....Gen2 Cumara (not even in the same ballpark imho), even an Orochi XX is close enough to consider. Plus you are approaching on a Dobyns Extreme (not in the same ballpark)
Legend Elite/Xtreme MSRP $340-$420.....where to start. Dobyns Extreme is cheaper, and is on par or even better IMHO. Certainly in the longer rods as mentioned by others they balance very well.. Not too bad of a warranty either. Craftsmanship on them are great too. Rep Sample NRX is here too...Kistler Z-Bones. Megabass has some rods priced here if you can find them. GLX's are close enough and the new split grips are great by all accounts. Cumulus' are here too.
My point is there are very strong competitors for every rod all the way down to the Mojo and Premier. The market is full of rod manufacturers with warranties and customer service that are certainly worth noting. There are no absolutes by saying X company is the best at everything.
When you get a St. Croix, there is comfort in knowing you have a good warranty and your money help paid U.S. laborers. This does not necessitate that you got the best rod for your money. Personally, I keep EVERY option open when buying a rod. When the bargain room gets deals is when I find it worthwhile to check out St. Croix, otherwise there are many other options to consider and should be consider by those who have worked for their money and want to get the most out of it.
On 5/21/2013 at 2:11 AM, Capt.Bob said:14 years ago I bought my first Legend Elite and my first Loomis IMX, as a Lake Erie Guide I have fished most everything out there,,,,,,,I own over 20 St. Croix's today, Avid's, Legend Elites, Legend Tournament, Legend Extreme's, Lend Ultra, along with a couple premiers, and 1 Loomis, I don't see that changing!!! I may suggest to others "FOR THE MONEY" but to me I don't care about price, it's the quality I want. and I love knowing my money is putting Americans to work!!!
So how can you even know how good other rod manufacturers are at Customer Service and honoring their warranties if all you have is St. Croix? Even then, the IMX had a very strong following with its performance back in the day
On 5/21/2013 at 4:43 AM, Capt.Bob said:I personally find the rods made in Mexico (Rage, Mojo Eyecon, etc) are comparable to the GL2 and GL3 rods, If you compare a NRX to an Avid it's like comparing a GL2 to a Legend Extreme,,,,,
not what one call apples to apples!!! St. Croix unlike some,,,, makes a rod to compare to any rod built, Triumph to Lightning rod or NRX to Legend Elite and Extreme, IMX and GLX to Legend Tournament and so on. Far to many want to compare a $400.00 rod to a $200.00 Rod, It is hard to compare any rod costing less than $200.00 to a $180.00 Avid. I think the Avid far better than it's price, and the only way to compare any rod to a Legend Elite is fugal, sensitivity, weight, durability, and most of all as I said in the beginning NO ONE BACKS EM BETTER!!!!! It will take 14 years of hard use and dozens of upgrades to the same model to find out if they come close!!!!
Hate to burst your bubble, but many rods compare to the Legend Elite. The avid is a nice rod, but fishes right along with its competitors and there are rods much lighter and sensitive than an avid and a legend elite.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 12:27 PM, skeletor6 said:I bolded and increased the font size from 24pt to 12pt on the statements that I would like to comment on.
Hate to burst your bubble, but many rods compare to the Legend Elite. The avid is a nice rod, but fishes right along with its competitors and there are rods much lighter and sensitive than an avid and a legend elite.
Some I think are trying to make this more than an opinion. You can twist the fact and state this says there are other "RODS THAT ARE BETTER" I personally would recommend you interpret it the way it reads!! I never said it is better than any Rod Company, simply it is the best, and I don't think it is possible for anyone to make a valid statement that "THERE IS A BETTER ROD COMPANY" PERIOD!!!! There will always be those that "PREFER ONE OVER THE OTHER" But I would have to dispute they were any better, and at the same time wont say Some one can't have a rod as good as a Legend Elite or Extreme, simply you can't buy better. I would also never say someone wouldn't like a rod better than those, but would argue there are any made or backed any better!! which equals the finest on the planet.
There are those that prefer a toyota over a Ford truck, sorry I aint one of them, if you like Toyota, thats wonderful, I like my Ford! and you wont convince me the toyota is a better truck. then your comment on how would I know,,,,like I said I owned my own Charter Service on the Western Basin of Lake Erie for over 20 years, there were over 300 other Charters in the marina I ran out of, one thing we as Captains did was share our experience and knowledge among us. We also between the over 300 had the best of everything very shortly after it was introduced and let the others know or even use it, rod's, reel's, tackle, rigging gear you name it, even boats, this allowed me to make my decision on anything first hand sometimes before buying it! That with nearly 60 years in the industry and much of that as a profession, I never put a price tag on the best, it is very simple it won't come cheap, all things you learn by being there and doing that, and trust me, I have been there and done that and if you like you can share all your years and experience for your comparisons with us. But please don't think I said is not as good, but did say it aint better!! and as .RM. DVC and others have said, they have more models that cover more tactics than any company period! and no one offers more to custom builders Which does say no rod company is as diverse or has as much to offer!!! PERIOD!!!
skeletor6 reply :
What facts did I twist Captain?
I wish I could respond to what you are saying, but it is really difficult to understand your grammar. I don't believe I mentioned buying a ford or toyota, but perhaps I did. What I attempted to do was point out that for every rod in St. Croix's price ranges there are many other offerings. I am sorry, but every rod that St. Croix makes is not the best rod in its category. I appreciate a smaller company like Phenix giving it a go at the Avid's price range and putting out a couple very fine and LIGHT products. I don't know if you have ever called them, but you can get a hold of the owner Vince Borges fairly easily. Pretty good customer service and he won't even push his own rods on you. Gotta love objectivity.
St Croix is diverse, they put out many products. Unfortunately, they have not put out a lineup that competes with the NRX lineup from Loomis. Something I wish they did as competition is great for consumers. I gladly welcome all competitors to the market as it makes the products that much better. Explore a little, you might find out there's actually some pretty nice rods being made.. From the custom rod building standpoint their top end blank is pretty much equivalent to a NFC HM, or Phenix K2 depending on what you are trying to build.
Echoing what others have said, St. Croix's customer service is good, the best? Debatable....St. Croix produces some very fine rods....the best? Debatable....no absolutes here Captain
ww2farmer reply :
I am a big fan of St Croix, I own 4 Mojo's, a Rage, 2 Avids, and 3 Legend Tournaments. Are they the best.............meh......that's subjective. I have fished other brands too, like, Fenwick, Kistler, Shimano, and they have all been nice rods too. I don't get paid to advertise for St Croix, so I'll tell you that I use them and like them, but it ends there.
*Hootie reply :
After a while, these debates just sound NUTS....lol
My dog's bigger than your dog. My dad can whip your dad......phtttttt.
Hootie
Sam reply :
Everybody has their own favorite this and that of bass fishing.
G. Loomis has a one time NRX Wild Card which entitles me to a replacement rod, no questions asked, for a free NRX replacement.
All I do is bring the broken rod and my Wild Card to any local G. Loomis dealer and they will replace the rod free of charge.
The replacement rod is then covered by the G. Loomis Limited Lifetime Warrenty program.
Kistler replaced my broken rod for free.
I have replaced two Shimano's as well. I think there was a charge but I don't recall.
I have all other rods repaired by Wayne Knabe in Powhatan, Virginia.
Any Virginia guys and gals out there that need rod and reel service Wayne is the guy to go to. Just PM me and I can give you Wayne's phone number.
BrettD reply :
They are not 100% made in the USA either all the components are sourced from fuji just like every other rod manufacturer. 100% assembled in the USA would be a better term.
South FLA reply :
I have just about every HIGH END rod mentioned in this thread, ask Dwight, lol. I was a HUGE Dobyns fan for a about 2 years having both the Champion and Champion extreme series. I also owned a couple of Avids that I traded or sold, prior to receiving a gift of a Legend Extreme and purchasing 2 more Legend Tournaments. Now I am slowly selling off all my Dobyns due to quality issues with the guides popping out, and it was not isolated to just one rod, rod series, or generation of rod, I love the rod's balance and feel, but Gary has to do something about the GUIDES. I own the first generation Cumara series and love it, but hated the hook keeper in the handle, so instead of adding my own, I sold all, but one of them, but for the money the Shimano Crucial is almost as good especially for moving baits. As far as rods that handle the majority of my jig/t-rig work they are G.Loomis GLXs, can't really find a fault with the factory rods and unless I have a great deal or break my GLX, I am going to keep them for a LONG TIME. So my point is that this thread can turn into a Ford vs. Chevy fight, but from my experience I can no longer recommend Dobyns Champion or Champion Extreme series as a top quality rod, due to the consistent popping off of the guides. Secondly, I would say I am very impressed with my St. Croix Legend series and up rods, so much so that I am seriously considering selling or trading all my non-Loomis rods for them. As far as top of the line American made rod blanks you may also want to consider North Fork Composites, which I have yet to try! http://www.northforkcomposites.com/
.RM. reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 11:42 AM, lmbfisherman said:Glad you like your St. Croix, but even though "Shimano" owns G Loomis, they are also all made in Woodland, Washington. Just to point out St. Croix isn't the only "Made in America".
Nope they aren't the only one....Just the only original mfg of rods that is..No company sale to an umbrella Co....
We all know buy now Shimano got a great deal on Loomis rods, when Garry was diagnosed with colon cancer he needed money for treatment. Shimano has never treated the rod side like Garry did.....
PABASS reply :
I tried a Veritas and I like the rod, very light, sensitive but quality control isn't comparable to a st. croix and I find that is the case with other oem, I am looking at the Crucial but I keep looking back at the Avids.
Hot n Tot reply :
I have approximately an equal number of Loomis and St. Croix rods and really like them all. Obviously I cannot fish them all at the same time, but alternate the ones I take on an outing for variety. I have a slight preference for St. Croix spinning rods, and slightly prefer Loomis casting rods. I have only had one customer service issue with any rod, and Loomis replaced free of charge an IMX casting rod that I stupidly broke misusing. I think Loomis and St. Croix are very close in quality and it's more of a Ford/Chevy debate.
lmbfisherman reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 8:57 PM, .RM. said:Nope they aren't the only one....Just the only original mfg of rods that is..No company sale to an umbrella Co....
We all know buy now Shimano got a great deal on Loomis rods, when Garry was diagnosed with colon cancer he needed money for treatment. Shimano has never treated the rod side like Garry did.....
That maybe true, but I've never had a single issue with Shimano as a whole. I've fished Shimano most of my life. Don't get me wrong, I don't just "own" Shimano and not a "fanboy", I like St Croix rods too. (Own 4 of them) I just wanted to point out St. Croix and the Made in America thing isn't the only "quality" rod and make it seem like all the others are made in "China". Which by the way I have no issue buying "IF" it's quality product.
Capt.Bob reply :
The CHEVY vs Toyota was over a few's head I see, I didn't say there were not better buy's, or other preferences, we all know there are for some. I don't care what rod you want to compare at any price, the point being,,,,,,,the Extreme and Elite are as good as it get's. I did not say there was not a rod somewhere as good, or a "company that was not as good". I did say "THEY ARE THE BEST" that means "THERE IS NO BETTER COMPANY" so if there is a company as good that may be I won't argue preferences but to say there is better is only trying to argue a senseless point!!!!! As no one has ever done it as long as St. Croix with the level support they have. So I am saying that there is no "BETTER OR MORE DIVERSE COMPANY" to say different is defiantly not a fact, but an argument!! I hope you understand I never said it was "BETTER THAN!!!" but I will say to you there is "NO BETTER" but there is always those that want to twist what one try's to say, for the benefit of "me to me to", or mine is bigger, to say there is a better rod than the ELITE or EXTREME is purely personal preference!!. I will assure there is only one or two companies that can come close to as good!! That leaves out most that have been mentioned, and I could care less about price. Best is determined by the item, not the price of it!
I am sorry to upset so many by mentioning "MADE IN AMERICA"?? I only wish more jumped so quickly to defend EXTREME QUALITY PRODUCTS that are made here as they are at defending foreign companies trying to compete with them. So as far as "MADE IN AMERICA" it does matter to me, as being a retired union Iron Worker and spending much of my life BUILDING THIS COUNTRY and it's FACTORIES and INFRASTRUCTURE, it disheartens me deeply to see so many who could care less what foreign countries economy their shopping dollars support, as long as it benefits them, when there are choices here that are as good, and in this case better. I really "DON'T UNDERSTAND" people in this "COUNTRY THAT CAN SAY IT DOESN'T MATTER TO THEM", and wonder if it would matter more to them if people paid illegals and foreigners for the services or products they provide, because it was cheaper or better for the price, even though not quite as good, and left them without a job. so I will spend a few dollars more to support the workers in my own "COUNTRY IF, THEY CAN PROVIDE A PRODUCT THAT IS JUST AS GOOD" or EVEN CLOSE!!!! But some want to "SAVE A BUCK, KILL AMERICAN LABOR", and for very little difference, sometimes settling for less because it's cheaper, not me "WHEN I CAN BUY AMERICAN QUALITY",,,, i will, if cost more for as good or better, I will buy American, and that too is personal preference!!!!. So feel free to buy as you please, but with companies like St. Croix, I feel it is easy to justify supporting them, all the way down to the Premier for around 100 bucks, like DVC said, they truly have a price range and a quality rod for everyone!!! And to the guy that wants to argue they aren't made here,,,,,,,with that in mind I am sorry, but GM, Ford Jeep, Dodge,,,,,,,you name it have parts on them that didn't come from here, but they are still known as American Auto Companies!!!! Same as Coix, & Loomis, and they are as 100% American as it gets, along with others I mentioned and Dobyns aint one of them! Sorry!
flyfisher reply :
The amount of bold and larger font used in this thread make my head hurt....
kickerfish1 reply :
This thread has run it course... time to move on.
iabass8 reply :
If you BOLD, ITALICIZE, and make WORDS LARGER than they NEED TO BE, it sounds more IMPORTANT.
SirSnookalot reply :
The only thing that really matters is the..........FISH !
*Hootie reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 12:51 AM, Capt.Bob said:
Dobyns aint one of them! Sorry!
Maybe not, but Dobyns have some "AWESOME RODS!!!!
APOLOGY ACCEPTED!!!!
Hootie
Capt.Bob reply :
OH YA THE FISH!! Forgot, Like the ones from the Spring Walleye Run over the years that really is what tested the 6'6" MF action rod and test it's ability to handle abuse, from icing up to over stressed with heavier lines than rated for, with drags torqued for all there worth, and fish in fast currents, it has been a great River and Lake rod over the 14 years!!
These really are harsh conditions on equipment, from freezing temps to extreme currents, over 14 years of this torture and simply not enough room to show em all, and really don't want to dig that far back thru the photos of the times this rod produced. I just hope I am able to enjoy another 14 years catching fish like this on the new one, and take the abuse the original did along with the 100's of Small Mouth, Lake Erie Permit, Buffalo Carp, and 1000's of Lake Erie Walleye, If it takes the abuse and test of time this one did, 15 lbs test with the drag at max and at times hand held for more pressure, on a rod rated for 12 lbs test, I will be happy, and maybe they'll give me another upgrade????????
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 2:52 AM, hootiebenji said:Maybe not, but Dobyns have some "AWESOME RODS!!!!
APOLOGY ACCEPTED!!!!
Hootie
Yes and so does Bass Pro, but lately Dobyns has had their share of problems, faulty components and quality control, and they have admitted it!! Sorry but no need to apologize!
*Hootie reply :
Now that's what I call "fishin"!!!....WOW!
Hootie
*Hootie reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 3:30 AM, Capt.Bob said:Yes and so does Bass Pro, but lately Dobyns has had their share of problems, faulty components and quality control, and they have admitted it!! Sorry but no need to apologize!
You apologized, I didn't......lol
Hootie
*Hootie reply :
Capt. Bob, I sure hope you don't take offense to any of my ribbing you. I'm just a cut up. I enjoy reading your posts.
Hootie
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 3:45 AM, hootiebenji said:Capt. Bob, I sure hope you don't take offense to any of my ribbing you. I'm just a cut up. I enjoy reading your posts.
Hootie
I don't take offense but some here seem to try and put interpretations on things that simply aren't said. I hope you don't, and I try and keep all happy as I may head your way someday and might need a friends guidance on that BIG RIVER!!! 
I have some very good (to me Bass Pro rods) I think there great, but I can't say they are the quality feel or durability that give them the right to be called "THE BEST" meaning if there are others as good there aren't any that are better!!! Kind of like some comparing a Custom Made not available anywhere rod to suggest you don't know what you are talking about. But like others who KNOW have said, you can do that with a ST. Croix Blank also, more so than any other!!
lmbfisherman reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 4:13 AM, Capt.Bob said:I don't take offense but some here seem to try and put interpretations on things that simply aren't said. I hope you don't, and I try and keep all happy as I may head your way someday and might need a friends guidance on that BIG RIVER!!!
I have some very good (to me Bass Pro rods) I think there great, but I can't say they are the quality feel or durability that give them the right to be called "THE BEST" meaning if there are others as good there aren't any that are better!!! Kind of like some comparing a Custom Made not available anywhere rod to suggest you don't know what you are talking about. But like others who KNOW have said, you can do that with a ST. Croix Blank also, more so than any other!!
Capt. Bob - I'm not offended I was just stating what some guy off the street might perceive, that St. Croix is the only "Made in America". My last post was more of a response by the other guy too.
kickerfish1 reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 3:30 AM, Capt.Bob said:Yes and so does Bass Pro, but lately Dobyns has had their share of problems, faulty components and quality control, and they have admitted it!! Sorry but no need to apologize!
Got a link? Outside of their generation 1 rods I haven't heard of this. Been fishing the generation 2 rods for 2+ years with no issues with any of the rods components.
Lucky Craft Man reply :
I'm not sure I get the point of this post, except for that Capt. Bob like his St. Croix's. I am a G Loomis fan and I didn't really like the St. Croix's that I tried, but in the end it doesn't matter. You fish with what you enjoy. We are all here to share our passion of fishing and not compare who's rod is longer. These divisive threads are more detrimental to a forum like this than they are beneficial. RW, is Irene around?
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 4:31 AM, kickerfish1 said:Got a link? Outside of their generation 1 rods I haven't heard of this. Been fishing the generation 2 rods for 2+ years with no issues with any of the rods components.
Most likely meant Loomis NRX rods and their haphazard QC
tstone reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 1:29 PM, Capt.Bob said:I never said it is better than any Rod Company, simply it is the best, and I don't think it is possible for anyone to make a valid statement that "THERE IS A BETTER ROD COMPANY" PERIOD!!!!
There are those that prefer a toyota over a Ford truck, sorry I aint one of them, if you like Toyota, thats wonderful, I like my Ford! and you wont convince me the toyota is a better truck.
Interpreting it the way it reads, you basically just said "I never said it is better than anyone, but no one is better"
The second sentence describes why this thread is pointless... you think your opinion is fact, and whether or not it really is, no one will convince you otherwise.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 5:12 AM, Lucky Craft Man said:I'm not sure I get the point of this post, except for that Capt. Bob like his St. Croix's. I am a G Loomis fan and I didn't really like the St. Croix's that I tried, but in the end it doesn't matter. You fish with what you enjoy. We are all here to share our passion of fishing and not compare who's rod is longer. These divisive threads are more detrimental to a forum like this than they are beneficial. RW, is Irene around?
My whole point was no company has better Customer Service or better rods. Then it got turned into there are Companies as good, I don't dispute that, I simply don't think there is any Company with better Customer Service or quality. as good maybe better,,,,,,NOT!
You are exactly right, and as long as I have been in this business those are the only two that can say they are the best period. They have the best and longest track record of taking care of their customers and no American Company or foreign has the blank technology these two do. They both produce rods that cannot be equaled, and I am not talking Avid's and IMX's.
I can't think of anyone who would choose any rod made over their choice of a Legend Elite, Extreme, or a Loomis GLX or NRX no charge any rod you want!!! Those rods have no equals, they are very much divided by personal preference, and it would be fugal to say there are others that are their equal!! Just as it would be Fugal to say there was a Company that offered a wider variety from one end of the spectrum to the other, with Customer Service this good. Hence why I chose St. Croix as my prefered rod Company,,,,,not my only!! with over 40 rods from Eagle Claw, Fenwick, Abu-Garcia, Bass Pro, Pfluger, Diawa, Loomis, Okuma, Berkly, Browning, etc, but my prefered rod Company is St. Croix. I would not trade one of my Legend Elite's or Extreme's for any of them!! Just My Personal Choice!!
I mean do you really think Hank Parker thinks there is no better built rod than Berkly???
iabass8 reply :
What did you really think was going to happen with such an opinionated post on an internet forum? They are up there in rods but depending on the part of the country you live in, don't have the "top" following as others do. St. Croix does make a great product but to blatantly state "there is no better rod" is just a biased opinion, not a fact.
I think hank parker fishes fenwick rods now. at least he does on his show as of recent.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 6:22 AM, iabass8 said:I think hank parker fishes fenwick rods now. at least he does on his show as of recent.
Like so many others that could be true today its all about the market!! It just depends on the price!!! MY POINT EXACTLY!!!! Thank you for clarifying that!!
Hooked_On_Bass reply :
No doubt St. Croix makes good sticks. I've had several, but have since replaced them with G Loomis. Just a preference thing.
I've had to use G Loomis' customer service once, for a rod that was broke during shipping. They were great!
Can't go wrong with either manufacturer.
dam0007 reply :
Pure awesome! Proud to say I dropped $300 on the new avid surf rod with lifetime warranty.
derekxec reply :
not to rag on st croix cause i use some of their blanks too but i like my rainshadow blanks better....i dont care for warranties and thats why i like rainshadow better because i dont have to use their warranty...i would rather not have any problems than have to use the warranty and thats what i get from rainshadow 
:D
tomustang reply :
My rod's bigger than your rod.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 8:27 AM, derekxec said:not to rag on st croix cause i use some of their blanks too but i like my rainshadow blanks better....i dont care for warranties and thats why i like rainshadow better because i dont have to use their warranty...i would rather not have any problems than have to use the warranty and thats what i get from rainshadow
There best blank is a comparable blank to the Premier for rod builders, Jann's Netcraft is one of the big wholesalers for Rainshadow RX8 there top end blank and the RX7 a very low priced blank for the money not bad but hardly premium, My Custom Rod Builder is the rod tech at Netcraft he has been building high end rods for over 30 years, he is also my Custom Rod Builder and rainshadow is not on his preferred list of blanks, much like our own .RM. he prefers tha Croix blanks also, and not because he can buy them cheaper. That is a very cost affective blank but there best blank is far below that of many blank rod suppliers!! They are great rods for the money, but far from the highest quality available.at $85.00 to $115.00 for there top tier blanks they are good quality for what you pay. But you truly do get what you pay for in rod blanks. One of Kevins projects was a handle he just finished for me and can be seen here.http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/118818-my-st-croix-legend-extreme-my-way-eye-candy/
He truly knows his stuff!! Most top end builders will prefer Loomis or St. Croix for the basis of their high performance builds.
iabass8 reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 8:55 AM, Capt.Bob said:There best blank is a comparable blank to the Premier for rod builders, Jann's Netcraft is one of the big wholesalers for Rainshadow RX8 there top end blank and the RX7 a very low priced blank for the money not bad but hardly premium, My Custom Rod Builder is the rod tech at Netcraft he has been building high end rods for over 30 years, he is also my Custom Rod Builder and rainshadow is not on his preferred list of blanks, much like our own .RM. he prefers tha Croix blanks also, and not because he can buy them cheaper. That is a very cost affective blank but there best blank is far below that of many blank rod suppliers!! They are great rods for the money, but far from the highest quality available.at $85.00 to $115.00 for there top tier blanks they are good quality for what you pay. But you truly do get what you pay for in rod blanks. One of Kevins projects was a handle he just finished for me and can be seen here.http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/118818-my-st-croix-legend-extreme-my-way-eye-candy/
He truly knows his stuff!! Most top end builders will prefer Loomis or St. Croix for the basis of their high performance builds.
What was the point of that? Diminish somebody else's personal preference because it isn't your own or "every custom rod builders shared preference"? He likes something different. Even Mattman and others at TT build on and like the RX8 blank but they probably aren't considered a "top rod builder" by you I'm guessing. And no, they aren't scv blank quality but to compare them to a premier or put them near a bottom of a "list" is laughable at best. Also, St. Croix makes the rx8 blank.
My god close this stupid thread already.
derekxec reply :
hey i hope they stay cheap in price lol cause they are very sensitive but i guess not the lightest blanks but they are strong and i guess mostly unfinished blanks but i like the unfinished look which reminds me i really should start marking what model the blank is when i build lol
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 9:52 AM, derekxec said:hey i hope they stay cheap in price lol cause they are very sensitive but i guess not the lightest blanks but they are strong and i guess mostly unfinished blanks but i like the unfinished look
Yes they are and as I said a very good blank for the money, somehow now I am accused of knocking it or downgrading it. Sorry but thought I made it clear it was quality for the cost which to most I would think means better quality than the price reflects!!!!!! Not so obvious to others! and like everything else, always someone to find a dig in it. I should have said how they are light years ahead of the SCV blanks, hope you didn't take it as a dig on the preferred blank RX8 blank, and sorry but they do carry a warranty a lifetime warranty if you are using the RX8. And if one reads what is typed they see OH the RX7 is not a premium blank but warranted the same!! and close in quality to the Premier!! Sorry but I don't consider the Premier a bad blank, but no it aint a SCV blank either!! I don't warrant them or make em, just the way the company backs em!!! Probably why they are not same cost either!!! Gee that must mean the Lifetime warranted blank of the RX8 is better, but not a SCV, will I be stoned for pointing out that difference as well?????? No one knocked you RX8 blanks, as I said for the price a good rod better than its price dictates, and good quality for what you are paying!!! OH I already said that!! I am sorry but only a lier would say as good as SCV.
Hope you understood the post before better than "iabass8, he obviously didn't comprehend the whole thing.
iabass8 reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 8:55 AM, Capt.Bob said:There best blank is a comparable blank to the Premier for rod builders, Jann's Netcraft is one of the big wholesalers for Rainshadow RX8 there top end blank and the RX7 a very low priced blank for the money not bad but hardly premium,
On 5/22/2013 at 10:21 AM, Capt.Bob said:
And if one reads what is typed they see OH the RX7 is not a premium blank but warranted the same!! and close in quality to the Premier!!
Hope you understood the post before better than "iabass8, he obviously didn't comprehend the whole thing.
Perhaps it is you that needs a class in comprehension....unless you feel the rx7 is a better blank than the rx8...
and your entire post was just a giant rant about how "your top rod builders" don't like the blank and how it "isn't st. croix quiality* (even those the rx8 is made by st. croix) which I don't remember derek asking why he thought you shouldn't use it just that, a shocker here, he preferred something other than st. croix. The second he says preferred something he different you went in to a rant about how your rod builder doesn't find them to be a quality blank. So yes, it was demeaning.
tstone reply :
This whole thread is a trainwreck. Saying that St Croix is the best and no one can be better is ignorant. That's your preference. Whining on an internet board when others don't agree doesn't make you right. For being an adult, you sure sound like a child.
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 10:41 AM, tstone said:This whole thread is a trainwreck. Saying that St Croix is the best and no one can be better is ignorant. That's your preference. Whining on an internet board when others don't agree doesn't make you right. For being an adult, you sure sound like a child.
Im very offended by this statement. This diminishes all of those misfortunate enought to have been in an actual trainwreck, such as myself. 
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 9:52 AM, derekxec said:hey i hope they stay cheap in price lol cause they are very sensitive but i guess not the lightest blanks but they are strong and i guess mostly unfinished blanks but i like the unfinished look
Sorry if you took me wrong, I started this thread stating their is no better CS than St. Croix!! I believe that and like I said the Rainshadow is a good buy and a good rod, There is only a fool who would tell someone if they asked if it is as good as a St. Croix SCV that would tell them yes!! Sorry it is a fact. It is not the same quality, hell they make a Triumph too, I assure you it aint in the same league with the Legends,,,,,,any of them!! I would be a total fool to suggest it was, or worse yet a liar! That said I stated it is a good rod and better than its price reflects, that is the truth, and not a bloated exaggeration!!
On 5/22/2013 at 10:35 AM, iabass8 said:Perhaps it is you that needs a class in comprehension....unless you feel the rx7 is a better blank than the rx8...
and your entire post was just a giant rant about how "your top rod builders" don't like the blank and how it "isn't st. croix quiality* (even those the rx8 is made by st. croix) which I don't remember derek asking why he thought you shouldn't use it just that, a shocker here, he preferred something other than st. croix. The second he says preferred something he different you went in to a rant about how your rod builder doesn't find them to be a quality blank. So yes, it was demeaning.
Pick and cut out what you want, it is very obvious you are worried more about lying and twisting facts than pointing out the truth, sorry if I hurt his feelings and sorry if you don't like it but I wont feed someone a line of bull to build their ego!! The facts are it may may even be in the same leage as an Avid or IMX but it dang sure aint the quality of the Legend Elite or Extreme, sorry if the facts aren't what you want to hear, and anybody know I would be a fool to think they are the same quality!!! LIVE WITH IT!!!
On 5/22/2013 at 10:41 AM, tstone said:This whole thread is a trainwreck. Saying that St Croix is the best and no one can be better is ignorant. That's your preference. Whining on an internet board when others don't agree doesn't make you right. For being an adult, you sure sound like a child.
I will take a chance here and let you tell me what rod Manufacturer is better, more diverse, and makes more ways to take care of their customers with a larger offering covering more choices than St Croix,,,,,,,anywhere in the world!! mind you since you like calling names it would be childish to say better just name one that meets all these criteria!!
Like I said some threads back, if any one ever asked me what rod they should be looking for if they wanted the best possible spinning or casting rod available, and as I said they did not care what it cost, but didn't want anything but the very highest quality, I would be a fool to offer any advice other than St. Croix Legend Elite or Extreme and if they prefer Loomis NRX or GLX, those would be what most agree are the very best factory rods available. Now if they were looking to build a rod I would have to recamend a St. Croix SCV, since Loomis no longer offers rod blanks for custom builders, and sir I would feel ignorant if I offered any other advice!! I am not going to suggest anything less to keep from hurting someones feelings, But as I said I am open to any possible suggestion of a Company that offers more models at a wider price range from factory built to bare blanks, with as many options to cover current and future owners of their products, please correct me!!! Hell I may have been depriving myself all these years???????? and don't sugar coat it to keep from hurting my feelings!!! Please educate this ignorant old man!
SirSnookalot reply :
The initial intent of the original post was to claim the superiority of St. Croix's customer service. The only way to determine the best would be dealing with each and every rod manufacture's customer service, something I believe that no one has done. I do not use St Croix rods and have seen very few of them down here, of the several brands that I use not a one of them in the last 10 years have needed to go back to the manufacture. I really don't know how good their service is, because the rods have performed with no flaws and never needing any repair, except an occasional guide replacement. We fish some pretty harsh conditions, my primary fishing spot is an inlet with current that can run as fast as 12 knots, so the Coast Guard says and that's pretty fast. Not to diminish those nice walleyes, but in my opinion snook, tarpon, permit, barracuda, and jack crevelles are some very formidable fish. We do not use heavy gear and lines for these fish, yet our rods do stand up to the task. This thread is no different than one being devoted to reels, it's all subjective and based on one owner's experience with a limited number of brands.
*Hootie reply :
LMG lives on. He is now known as Capt. Bob......lol
Hootie
skeletor6 reply :
On 5/21/2013 at 1:29 PM, Capt.Bob said:You can twist the fact
On 5/22/2013 at 4:13 AM, Capt.Bob said:some here seem to try and put interpretations on things that simply aren't said.
On 5/22/2013 at 10:21 AM, Capt.Bob said:
Hope you understood the post before better than "iabass8, he obviously didn't comprehend the whole thing. (To be honest, I do not think you read the entirety of what other individuals have to say. Other opinions don't matter to you. You know the "facts" and are right about everything. Being biased and belligerent is fine, calling others out who are well schooled on their knowledge and experience is something you should be cautious about as there is the possibility that you, yes you Captain Bob, could be wrong.)
On 5/22/2013 at 1:12 PM, Capt.Bob said:Sorry if you took me wrong, I started this thread stating their is no better CS than St. Croix!! (Read your opening post...you did far more than claim superiority of customer service)
that is the truth, and not a bloated exaggeration!! (how ironic...bloated exaggeration, exactly what I was thinking)
Pick and cut out what you want, it is very obvious you are worried more about lying and twisting facts than pointing out the truth, I wont feed someone a line of bull to build their ego!! (If you are going to call someone a liar, please back it up with evidence. And I will ask again, what facts have been twisted? I am fairly certain that you do not read your posts before you submit them as there are some serious legibility concerns. You seem to mention how everyone is twisting and interpreting you wrong. Perhaps the issues may reside with your own posts as it seems there are multiple people who just can't interpret your posts. Maybe if your entire posts were all caps it would be easier to understand.)
On 5/22/2013 at 1:24 PM, SirSnookalot said:The initial intent of the original post was to claim the superiority of St. Croix's customer service.
Mr. Snooks, please defer to the captain's opening post. and the MULTIPLE claims made.
On 5/21/2013 at 1:42 AM, Capt.Bob said:1.) St. Croix has the best CS in the business and
2.) make the "VERY BEST RODS ON THE PLANET",
3.) "100% MADE IN THE USA BY AMERICAN CRAFTSMAN", and there are
4.) none better than the Legend Extreme, Elite, and Tournament are as good as it get's.
5.) This is why I say you can buy more expensive rods, or less expensive rods, "BUT YOU CAN'T BUY BETTER ROD'S OR BETTER BACKED ROD'S AT ANY PRICE
Captains Claims in OP
1.) Customer service superiority with an example
2.) Make the VERY BEST RODS ON THE PLANET!!!!!!
3.) 100% made in the USA.....(this "fact" of the captains has already been knocked down as the Fuji components on their rods are not manufactured by them)
4.) None better than elite, extreme, and tournament.
I hope this clears up that the captain was not only speaking of his good customer service experience with St. Croix. There were multiple intents to his post. Boasting about St. Croix's customer service was only 1 of these intentions.
Capt.Bob reply :
Surely someone can save me here and steer me in the right direction, there must be at least one company that could 1) take better care of me,as a owner 2) have a better assortment for all to choose from, 3) make a rod better than the Legend E's,,,,,,,,, I have been wasting far to much money on these second rate rods, I just need a little help choosing a better rod supplier......... Someone?????? 
I don't know,,,,, maybe they are that good???? As far as LMG goes the man had a point,,,,,,,,,,,,till Lew's was reintroduced!! 
As far as 100% made in America call a couple components what you will, and don't forget they have imported several lines of rods to compete with the lower end stuff from others, they do try to please everyone!!,,,,,,,and to make sound even worse,,,,,,,,,they probably get the cork from Portugal?????There has to be someone out there doing a better job of taking care of all fisherman,,,,,,,,,,,,,anyone????
*Hootie reply :
I wish I was a Mod right now.....lol
Mods, PLEASE, PUT THIS TOPIC OUT OF IT'S MISERY
Hootie
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 10:10 PM, hootiebenji said:I wish I was a Mod right now.....lol
Mods, PLEASE, PUT THIS TOPIC OUT OF IT'S MISERY
Hootie
I think your right Hootie, it looks like I aint gona be saved,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 
*Hootie reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 10:25 PM, Capt.Bob said:I think your right Hootie, it looks like I aint gona be saved,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Hey, Capt. Bob, you have given it a valiant effort.
Just for the record, I am kinda like you. I have St. Croix rods, G loomis, Dobyns, BPS, Fenwick, Abu Garcia. Heck, I like em all. I'm just a tackle junkie. My wife says I'm beyond saving at this late date.
Hootie
J Francho reply :
So Cappy likes Saint Croix? Why is it so hard to let it be. I don't know if they're the best, but they're pretty good, and I'm satisfied with my purchases. I'm also satisfied with my G.Loomis, Dobyns, and Shimano rods. It is refreshing that they maintain some of their assembly here in the US. You should also realize many of these companies that import rods also employ many people here in the US.
Not sure there's much more to debate here. Time to go fishing ladies!
South FLA reply :
Fact:
Best is subjective!
Fact:
The United States of America and is part of the New World GLOBAL ECONOMY, buying 100% American made is not necessarily better for the U.S.A. economy than buying X product from X company that provides X amount of Americans with jobs.
Opinion:
Megabass > Lake Fork Composites > St. Croix > Loomis > Dobyns > Batson
I enjoy the thread and it shows the PASSION of the forum. I am glad that we live in such a great country with such a high standard of living that we can "argue" and "debate" this!
LgMouthGambler reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 3:44 PM, hootiebenji said:LMG lives on. He is now known as Capt. Bob......lol
Hootie
HEY! That's not fair! I use Shimano and Dobyns rods!
J Francho reply :
Dobyns are junk, lol.
(KIDDING!!!! 
:eyebrows: )
*Hootie reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 10:47 PM, LgMouthGambler said:HEY! That's not fair! I use Shimano and Dobyns rods!
Uh oh!.... I'm busted.....lol
And when did you start using Dobyns rods, might I ask?
Hootie
EvanT123 reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 10:43 PM, South FLA said:Fact:
Best is subjective!
I enjoy the thread and it shows the PASSION of the forum. I am glad that we live in such a great country with such a high standard of living that we can "argue" and "debate" this!
Well said.
DaveT63 reply :
I have roughly 12 St Croix rods, from Triumphs to Xtreme's. I absolutely LOVE them. That said, I also have a couple Loomis GLX rods, and they get very comparable fishing time to the Elites and Xtremes. I would be hard pressed to say which is better. Both are fine rods. I've never used Loomis CS, but can vouch for the CS at St Croix as being first class.
LgMouthGambler reply :
On 5/23/2013 at 12:19 AM, hootiebenji said:Uh oh!.... I'm busted.....lol
And when did you start using Dobyns rods, might I ask?
Hootie
I get a great deal on them from someone. Frog rod is on the way. Savvy Series.
derekxec reply :
batson does everything i believe...they have forecast components(guides), alps(reel seats and such) and rainshadow blanks
J Francho reply :
A couple clarifications:
NFC has a line of bass rods in the prototype/field testing phase. The blanks are made in the US, and the rods will be assembled here as well.
Batson manufactures blanks and many other components for many species and applications. Their Rainshadow line is well known to both bass anglers and trout anglers - both fly and knuckle-dragging pinners, like me. It's relevant only because you mentioned that SC sells blanks.
Now this is only opinion....but it would seem silly to me for Dobyns to start selling walleye or trout rods. He is a successful tournament bass fisherman. Sometimes I think it's probably better to stick with what you know. Same would go for Megabass - I mean, it has "bass" in the name, lol.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 10:43 PM, South FLA said:Fact:
Best is subjective!
Fact:
The United States of America and is part of the New World GLOBAL ECONOMY, buying 100% American made is not necessarily better for the U.S.A. economy than buying X product from X company that provides X amount of Americans with jobs.
Opinion:
Megabass > Lake Fork Composites > St. Croix > Loomis > Dobyns > Batson
I enjoy the thread and it shows the PASSION of the forum. I am glad that we live in such a great country with such a high standard of living that we can "argue" and "debate" this!
You have brought up a couple that make outstanding rods but just aren't the total package I mentioned!!!
1) Megabass very small selection and primarily bass only, excellent rods,,,,,what few they build,,,,,,,and terible warranty, rods from $999.00 to $300.00 are usually backed by more than a three year warranty, they don't seem to be as proud of them as those that buy em!! there quality may be considered subjective,,,,, but their warranty and extremely limited selection are FACT!!
2) Dobyns, as I said earlier they offer very nice rods to Bass fisherman only??? I think they are a very limited company as to who they service,,,,,,like I said no one is more diverse, Subjective is the word, do they really compare to the quality of the best Croix has to offer, I won't comment on that but definitely subjective but there is nothing subjective about the limited freshwater aplications they offer,,,,,no need to mention Salt Water!! that is FACT
3) Batson??????????? I think you are talking about a manufacturer of blanks not rods, they are a huge wholesaler though????
4) G.Loomis, they are as I already mentioned subjective, I know lately their have been many of their dedicated fan base complaining that their quality is falling off, their selections and offerings have already downsized, and now they won't even offer their blanks to the public, Better?? I am sure to some but, again Subjective!!,,,,,as diverse Croix does, NEVER!! FACT! there warranty is questionable also as many have complained and I don't think it is transferable even on their high end???? don't stone me, as I said I am not sure. St. Croix does make provisions for this!!!FACT
5) I believe you were referring to North Fork Composites? BUT,,, Gary Loomis is a king in the rod industry and as I said before about Facts,,,only a fool would argue that, he is just getting off the ground and he is loading up for bear!!! but at this time he offering bare blanks, I am not aware of him offering a fishing rod, he manufactures bare blanks, and very very good ones!!! How do you compare him to a total rod company?????? FACT But I am glad you mentioned him he deserves recognition.
6)ST CROIX,,, lastly ,, I said I would be open to any suggestions to a Rod Company that could offer me BETTER,,,, MORE,,,,or take better care of me than them, I don't think there is one, subjective MAYBE???? but I have not seen one that offers anything near the total package they do. Why I said They are my Choice!!
On 5/23/2013 at 12:36 AM, Et525i said:Well said.
Debate is good, and if we were talking manufacturers of raw blank I would probably have to say NFC and Gary Loomis offers as good a total product as any, But that is all he is offering and I am sure it is a quality rod, from him or a SCV from Croix, I believe you could build the best rod possible with either one. and unlike Megabass when you got done I don't think you would have $999.00 in it but it would be backed for life, not three years,,,,Gary and St. Croix are much prouder of their product than to put a 3 year warranty on it!
kickerfish1 reply :
This is a bass forum... hence the name. Talking about rods that are suited to other species is irrelevant. That is what other forums would be for. People who join this site are looking for information about all aspects of bass fishing and aren't looking here for a source of trout or walleye info or any other species for that matter.
Dobyns and Megabass are only a few of many companies ONLY targetting bass anglers. Nothing wrong with having a refined target market.
From my understanding this isn't a multi species forum.
J Francho reply :
QuoteFrom my understanding this isn't a multi species forum.
No, but many of us target and fish for other species, and we have an "Other Species" category here as well. Keep in mind this is one person's opinion of what is best, and if one of the criteria is having a product line that suits other species, then that's his opinion. I think we get a little pigeon holed with bass gear anyway. There are a few so called walleye rods in the SC line up that are better drop shot rods than many rods designated as "drop shot rods." There are also holes in many bass line ups. Where you can you find a light and sensitive, 7-7.5', heavy power, fast action spinning rod marketed to bass anglers? I know Rhapsody has one in development (my buddy Jim helped design it). You have to turn to an inshore style rod. That's just one example, I'm sure there's others.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/23/2013 at 4:04 AM, kickerfish1 said:This is a bass forum... hence the name. Talking about rods that are suited to other species is irrelevant. That is what other forums would be for. People who join this site are looking for information about all aspects of bass fishing and aren't looking here for a source of trout or walleye info or any other species for that matter.
Dobyns and Megabass are only a few of many companies ONLY targetting bass anglers. Nothing wrong with having a refined target market.
From my understanding this isn't a multi species forum.
Sorry but I think we have different section for different species, but not for specific rods reels and lines????? maybe I am breaking a rule I overlooked and not allowed to discus a rod a line or a reel if I use it for something other than ..,,,,,,,,,,Bass???? if I am forgive me. I use most of my Walleye rods for smallmouth also, so maybe that makes me compliant?? I wont discuss my pike and Muskie gear. or trout and panfish, or the ones I use with the grandkids in the river for carp, catfish, sucker,,,,,,,,and as J Francho pointed out it is my opinion and WHY no one said these other companies don't make quality rods for bass, do they make better??????????????????? I am of the opinion that with St. Croix I can have the best of anything for anything all from one manufacturer. But my main point was the quality of their best rods is matched by their CS,,,,,,,,,,,,as good as it gets!!! But I am open to other options, thats how I bought my first St. Croix, and I was told they were tops, to find out I didn't buy there less than top of the line rod and expect it to perform like the best,,,,,,,,,,I haven't looked back, and 14 years later after beating the dog crap out of it and using for species and tactics it wasn't designed for, I am being rewarded with a brand new one for difference in the price of the two rods!! thats less than 4 bucks a year!!! I love it.
derekxec reply :
idk about everyone else but targeting just bass gets boring and we use bass rods for targeting snook in the offseasons... really i mix rods if i like the action of a rod made for one species ill use it for whatever im targeting... if it fits the bait im using i dont even bother to see what species the rods are made for
Koofy Smacker reply :
On 5/22/2013 at 10:43 PM, South FLA said:Fact:
Best is subjective!
Fact:
The United States of America and is part of the New World GLOBAL ECONOMY, buying 100% American made is not necessarily better for the U.S.A. economy than buying X product from X company that provides X amount of Americans with jobs.
Opinion:
Megabass > Lake Fork Composites > St. Croix > Loomis > Dobyns > Batson
I enjoy the thread and it shows the PASSION of the forum. I am glad that we live in such a great country with such a high standard of living that we can "argue" and "debate" this!
Im curious as to your opinion part. What is it based on? If its rods, then how are north fork composites and batson even on the list since they do not even produce production rods. As of now only blanks
.RM. reply :
On 5/23/2013 at 4:04 AM, kickerfish1 said:This is a bass forum... hence the name. Talking about rods that are suited to other species is irrelevant. That is what other forums would be for. People who join this site are looking for information about all aspects of bass fishing and aren't looking here for a source of trout or walleye info or any other species for that matter.
Dobyns and Megabass are only a few of many companies ONLY targetting bass anglers. Nothing wrong with having a refined target market.
From my understanding this isn't a multi species forum.
No sir it is a resource site has many forums, this thread is located in the Fishing Rods, Reels, Line, and Knots forum
Located inside of the bass recource web site.........
skeletor6 reply :
Let's use something called common sense. Bob is not going to listen to anything anybody has to say. He has yet to acknowledge how iabass8 is a liar, yet to back up how everyone is twisting facts. Has not read Sam's posting about G.Loomis' warranty program, but is quick to make assumptions about it. Also, if a company only targets the bass fishing community then they are now incompetent/inferior products in their targeted range. This forum is called BASSresource, I would find it safe to claim that most people are looking for information about Bass rods/reels/lines. Is it okay to talk about it? Sure why not, but don't shoot down a BASS rod manufacturers at a BASS forum for making BASS equipment
Bob keeps bouncing arguments around as other members offer suggestions to the contrary of what he claims and believes. Most people have rods made from multiple manufacturers, because they are open to the idea that not one company makes the best rod for every technique, person, condition, boat, etc.
St. Croix makes some good stuff, but they do not have the best rod for everything. They may attempt to make a rod for everything, but if someone is looking for NRX sensitivity from a St. Croix....sorry they don't have it. If someone is looking for the ingenuity, rarity, and aesthetics that Megabass offers, then Sorry St. Croix does not offer it. St. Croix is not the kings of everything and that is not a knock at their company it is a characteristic of every company. Not one company dominates the Bass market and that what makes evaluating options between different manufacturers so interesting.
To Bob St. Croix is the best at everything....okay we get it already. The only useful information you contributed to the community is your experience with St. Croix's customer service. People can take from that and learn something. The rest is just bloated rants often targeted at other individuals who are offering valid points and opinions. Notice how others can get their ideas across without gigantic font, all caps, bolded and a copious amount of question marks?
skeletor6 reply :
On 5/23/2013 at 7:17 AM, .RM. said:No sir it is a resource site has many forums, this thread is located in the Fishing Rods, Reels, Line, and Knots forum
Located inside of the bass recource web site.........
Nice try, Fishing Rods, Reels Line and Knots is a Subcategory of "Bass Boats and Fishing Equipment"....subcategories encompass the main category. Since the main category clearly states Bass, then the subcategory is for bass as well.
baluga reply :
Pretty entertaining thread..got to post before it goes south and locked. 
wnybassman reply :
All I use is St. Croix now, and have for a few years. I've never been much of an equipment junkie, and I always got along with just about anything I have ever used. I have 4 LTBs, 3 Avids, 1 Mojo and at least a dozen Premiers. I like them all. I really have no plans of trying anything else, because to me there is no reason to. They are very rugged, and put up with a lot of abuse, and keep on ticking. I only broke one when a rod locker lid came down on it, and lost a couple guides, likely due to my young son (and me) standing on them over the years.
I've never had to deal with the customer service, but hear they are great. lol
I know there are a lot of other companies, and I am sure they all offer great products as well. I just like keeping things fairly simple.
Hooked_On_Bass reply :
Well put, skeletor6.
ww2farmer reply :
That's it !!! I am done with St Croix, I can't be associated with the likes of wnybassman..................errrrr................I mean Capt. Bob.
jerzeeD reply :
It took me 30 minutes of my life to read all of this....I have gained absolutely nothing from it. Zilch. Squat. Zero.
I really do want my 30 minutes back.
There is my opinion.
Hooked_On_Bass reply :
Some more deflection.
thehooligan reply :
On 5/23/2013 at 7:20 AM, skeletor6 said:Let's use something called common sense. Bob is not going to listen to anything anybody has to say. He has yet to acknowledge how iabass8 is a liar, yet to back up how everyone is twisting facts. Has not read Sam's posting about G.Loomis' warranty program, but is quick to make assumptions about it. Also, if a company only targets the bass fishing community then they are now incompetent/inferior products in their targeted range. This forum is called BASSresource, I would find it safe to claim that most people are looking for information about Bass rods/reels/lines. Is it okay to talk about it? Sure why not, but don't shoot down a BASS rod manufacturers at a BASS forum for making BASS equipment
Bob keeps bouncing arguments around as other members offer suggestions to the contrary of what he claims and believes. Most people have rods made from multiple manufacturers, because they are open to the idea that not one company makes the best rod for every technique, person, condition, boat, etc.
St. Croix makes some good stuff, but they do not have the best rod for everything. They may attempt to make a rod for everything, but if someone is looking for NRX sensitivity from a St. Croix....sorry they don't have it. If someone is looking for the ingenuity, rarity, and aesthetics that Megabass offers, then Sorry St. Croix does not offer it. St. Croix is not the kings of everything and that is not a knock at their company it is a characteristic of every company. Not one company dominates the Bass market and that what makes evaluating options between different manufacturers so interesting.
To Bob St. Croix is the best at everything....okay we get it already. The only useful information you contributed to the community is your experience with St. Croix's customer service. People can take from that and learn something. The rest is just bloated rants often targeted at other individuals who are offering valid points and opinions. Notice how others can get their ideas across without gigantic font, all caps, bolded and a copious amount of question marks?
Best post of the thread, now let's lock it up.
MichiganFishing1997 reply :
Is it just me or is he just arguing that St. Croix has the best selection of rods at this point? I'm confused. I love St. Croix too, but just because they have 1,000 different rods doesn't mean they're the best. It would be easy to argue that a company specifying in fishing for a certain species may exceed the other general purpose company. To me they're isn't even anything to argue any more; nor are there any more points to be made. Everyone has they're own opinion and to all their own. Personally, I love trying new things and having a variety, others like consistency and using what they already have proven works for them. Oh and P.S. Please tell me you've realized by now that your not going to get any of your points through his thick skull. Lol
Glenn reply :
Bob - glad you like your rods and they work for you.
7 pages of....ya, well....it's just fishing folks. When you find yourself getting all worked up over fishing gear, it's time for a reality check.
Let's move on and have some fun.
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