I've never owned a Loomis, and probably never will. I'm now hooked on custom rods forever. :D However, I sure hope they get any issues worked out. I like to see stuff manufactured (even if only partially) here in the U.S.A. I believe a while back St. Croix had some issues with tip breakage on some o...

I've used them both, and they are both very good lines. I do like the fact that the 832 is a bit softer. Plus, I think that the 832 knots up easier (to the lure :D ), especially when the line is a relativity new. Probably has to do with the softness? I rarely had issues with the PB breaking unexpect...

I have an LES70MF. Very versatile rod. It will handle just about anything in it's weight range, with the only limitation being the spinning reel itself. In other words, working a 1/2 oz or 5/8 oz deep diving crank bait or spinner bait doesn't work that well with a spinning reel. On the other hand, I...

I have two 2500 series CI4's and my son has one. We really like the reels, and they are holding up well. The foam handle knob doesn't bother either one of us. I plan on replacing a 2500 series Stradic FE with another CI4... I like the lighter weight and the solid feel of the CI4.

Awesome!

Once again, one can't say enough good things about Matt's work!

Wow, those guys (or girls) at Shimano are brilliant!

Very nicely done, and great choice in blanks!

I have the 2010 LES70MF, and it is a fine rod indeed. I can only imagine that the LES76MF is equally good, if not better in some situations. The "MF" St. Croix's are every bit "Medium" and then some. Very powerful medium action rod.

Not a bad idea. However, the problem may be in defining a true "power"? Meaning, what is the measuring stick for a 4 power (or any power).

Man, they look sweet! I bet they fish as well as they look.

I agree with you, and the others, Matt does some awesome work... and I can also personally attest to that!

They are fine rods indeed. I have a St. Croix 7' MF Legend Elite, which is the same blank material as the LX (just different color), and it is an extremely sensitive, powerful, and fun to fish with rod. Better yet, I have a 6'9" MLXF custom LX... what a rod. Having the Fuji TiSic's guides on it, esp...

Hmmmmm... good to see that Diawa has finally put a fast retrieve and lighter weight into some of their spinning reels. They look good too, and Diawa does make good stuff. However, I still like the beveled spool lip on the Shimano's. It makes it a "no-brainer" to fill the spool to just the right spot...

Yep, St. Croix rod + nice reel + nice smallmouth = happy fisherman!

Sweet outfit, and nice smallie!

ecu daniel 14

Looks real nice on that LTB. That's another sweet setup.

Hey guys; First time poster, been lurking for a few months. I just purchased a 9535 to pair with my Legend Xtreme 69MLXF in the hopes of ending up with the definitive outfit to wade the local Midwestern creeks in pursuit of smallmouth. Thanks to the TT review and the info I've picked up on this for...