Looking for upgrade from Dobyns 742c HP

[VAsmallies]

This rod has been in my rotation for years because I love the power, length, and action for the way I use 1/2 oz vaults and overrides. What I don't like is the lack of sensitivity when fishing something like a Shakey head, nor the slow, sloppy recovery when twitching a lightish topwater walker after a long cast.It's decent with small jig head swimbaits and underspins, but don't feel like it loads up great. In general I feel like it takes too much weight to load up for good casts relative to the backbone it can deliver in power for hook sets with single hook applications and the recovery from twitching with treble hooked baits is slow .Any recommendations for a multipurpose casting rod that could excell for techniques mentioned above? Price range I'm looking at is $300 or less unless there is a unicorn slightly above. Thanks guys!

[Hennessy]

This rod has been in my rotation for years because I love the power, length, and action for the way I use 1/2 oz vaults and overrides. What I don't like is the lack of sensitivity when fishing something like a Shakey head, nor the slow, sloppy recovery when twitching a lightish topwater walker after a long cast.It's decent with small jig head swimbaits and underspins, but don't feel like it loads up great. In general I feel like it takes too much weight to load up for good casts relative to the backbone it can deliver in power for hook sets with single hook applications and the recovery from twitching with treble hooked baits is slow .Any recommendations for a multipurpose casting rod that could excell for techniques mentioned above? Price range I'm looking at is $300 or less unless there is a unicorn slightly above. Thanks guys!

I understand what you mean about “lack of sensitivity” with the Dobyns, reason I stopped using them years ago. Not to sound like a broken record, but the NRX 893c is one of the most versatile rod in their lineup. I’ve purchased some Nrx+ models for under $420, a little above your budget but well worth it. The good thing is you won’t have to ever think you need to upgrade again

[Dan B]

You don't even have to get into higher end rods to get what you want, just get a Expride 7'2 ML+ and you're going to see a noticeable difference.