Crankbait Rod?

[LanceJ]

Howdy all, I'm looking for a new casting rod for this summer. I'd like a crankbait rod for smallies and largemouth. I'm leaning towards the Shimano Compre line (lifetime OTC waranty) and the St. Croix Premier "Crankbait" series. Both fall into my price range ($80-$100). Any input on either one of these rods? Or perhaps a few other rods I should be looking at?

Reel advice is welcome, too. I think I'll get a Revo S or maybe the Revo SX.

Thanks in advance!

Lance

[walterking]

go with the shimano in that price range its a lot nicer rod than the premier also consider a loomis gl 2 just my opinion the low end st croixs are junk.

[Rivernut]

I have several Compre's and love them. They are a very good rod for the price!

[Deitz Dittrich]

That TC4 Crankbait rod By Shimano Compre is awesome!!!.. I have 4 of the Crucial TC4 rods.. and the only difference is the rod guides I think. The Compre usues the Fugi hardeloy.. and the Crucial uses the Fugi Concept guides... and I think there is a $40 price difference.

That Compre Crankbait rod is a great buy!

[DinkADunk]

I would go with the Shimano at that price point. I have a St. Croix Avid crankbait rod that I really like.

[TurnUpTheFishing]

I havnt seen the shimano rod but Im sure either rod would work out nicely.

As far as reels... The Revos have higher gear ratios. Id look into a lower gear ratio (around 5:1). The Shimano PV models have the lower gear ratios. Ive got the Citica 200dpv for deep cranking.

[Pherris]

You may want to check out the G-Loomis "clearance rack" at Capras. I was there over the weekend and picked up a loomis crankbait series of the rack for $139.00. They did have a few others but I am sure they will go fast. I also am a big fan of the Shimano compre rods. Good Fishing!!