Best rod in $150-$200 range?

[cndbasshunter]

Zodias, Avid X, and Chronos get my vote.

[jmb27]

Majorcraft.

I recently got an MS-X (just a bit above $200) and was really impressed with the build quality and components used for the price point. This is a BFS rod (6' 5" L model).

They do sell "regular" bass rod lengths and lure ratings. I'm sure that someone on this board can chime in with thoughts on those, but I'm really digging the MS-X rod I got.

St. Croix Avids are another line to look at the $200 price point.

Those MS-X's are great rods, but good luck finding more of those for around $200, though. I found the mxc-65ml (the basic series, non bfs model) for $200, but that was a bargain. 150-200 is more Volkey territory, which are also nice for the price. However, I have 7 different Tatulas and they are very difficult to beat, especially for what they can be had for. Then again, as others have said, this market segment is highly competitive, so you shouldn't be disappointed in whatever you decide on. If there were BFS Tatulas I never would've considered Major Craft, I know that. I just like the fit and finish, blank behavior, reel seats, etc. I'm sure the Cronos line is great, too, but there aren't as many actions to choose from, they are more expensive and, while it looks cool, I'm not at all convinced that the extra carbon cross wrap on the base of rods like the MS-X and Cronos has any appreciable effect on performance.

Yeah, I should have mentioned the Volkey, but I don't have any experience with those, other than peeps on this board mentioning they are a good rod for the money. I used the MS-X some more this weekend and I like the rod quite a bit (even though it is above $200--$215ish from digitaka before $25 shipping fee).

Haven't tried the Tatulas, but it sounds similar to the Shimano Zodias perhaps in that you get a lot of rod for the money.

[jmb27]

The best rods you will find for $150-$200 are $250-$350 used rods with lifetime trasferable warranties. Many found here, many more found on Ebay and the like. Rep samples and members' here are the best.
4 different GLXs tyd for $240 asking , various types and powers here just recently, amongst other deals.

This is good advice too. I've only had positive experiences buying used from fellow TT members.

[big_gee]

As to your question about picking the Tatula over the Cronos. For bottom contact I would pick the Cronos over the Tatula. I use the Tatula's for reaction baits that need a moderate action. I was out over the weekend and had 3 Cronos rods on the deck paired with a Tatula CT 8.1 and ZIllion SV TW's.

[Hogsticker2]

Kistler, Alx, Hammer, Daiwa in no particular order.

[Nermalthecat]

Shimano Zodias for spinning. Best bang for buck in my opinion.

[Silas]

Ive had a Tatula.

When compared I think the Avid 7' M/M is a far better choice. And more versatile.

I am one of the very few that are NOT impressed with the Tatula. Has a nice JDM look but the performance was simply "meh!"

If you are not familiar with JDM rods, you might be dazzled by the Tatula. I know lots of people consider it a good buy for the money. I bought mine on sale for $89 just to try it. It's definitely worth $89.

[paulito]

Oh wait, I forgot to mention the phenix Maxim rod. They are a phenominal rod for around $100

[reason162]

Of the ones I've owned, Zodias and Cronos in that price range.