I also meant to mention bite detection. Casting the jig to the spot is only one
part of the equation. Bite detection at that distance is a huge factor. Big crappie can inhale and expel a jig as quick as any walleye. It’s a race of reactions. Fun and exciting game for sure.

SPOT ON

Ok 2 weeks ago, I am side by side with my buddy that has the panfish series 7lxf. Both had 4lb test floroclear, both 2000 sized reels. A school of crappies hovered over a stand of cabbage 50′ from the boat. I knew it because I could count each crappie Mega live. I was spot locked facing into a 12-15 mph wind. I was trying to give my buddy first dibs, I said cast and 60′ and gave him the direction. His 1/32 oz minnow head jig with a 2″ grub fluttered out about 40-45′. He tried 3-4 times and could reach it. I cast my bait 70′ swami back and pulled a 12.5″ crappie. When I moved the boat closer so he could have a better chance, the fish got boat shy. I gave him my rod to try, he was shocked at the difference. He could reach them with ease. He went and bought the LE 70lXF the next day. I could give you numerous other scenarios, for instance, casting into a wind. NO comparison. Accuracy? the xf action is way more accurate

If you enjoy pitching light jigs for panfish this is a great choice of rods. I have experienced the very same scenario and also casting to docks 50 ft away in gin clear water. I’ve fished several times with other skilled anglers in my boat who refuse to spend much for a quality rod and reel. That is their choice for sure as they likely don’t do as much of this type of fishing that I do. It’s really no different than owning a high end walleye rod and reel for pitching jigs. If you don’t fish that way very often high end gear to do it probably makes no sense. In the big scheme of things after spending money to own a truck, boat, spend the money to travel and fish, the cost of a nice set up expensed over the course of many years ( trips ) is really pretty insignificant at the end of the day. Just my very humble opinion.

I only referenced the ” in warranty ” section because in the earlier threads
the cost associated with warranty replacement were coming from the ” out of warranty ” section. So St Croix will still fix or replace out of warranty rods for a very reasonable fee.

Hi folks. Long time reader making my first post. I just wanted to share with all readers who may be or not be St Croix fans. I have fished St Croix rods for over 30 years and have never felt let down. They are hands down one of the best values in the market still today. This past fall I had two separate incidents and broke the tips off two of my favorite rods. Both were accidental, but both were totally on me. I went to the St Croix website and turned in my claim, and I was called within 24 hours. I explained what had happened and disclosed that the rods were broken due to my handling of the rods. Both rods were replaced, no questions asked, and I only paid the $60 required for the ” in warranty ” level claims on my $450 Legend Elite rods. They arrived today in excellent condition. Thank you so much St Croix and I tip my cap to an American company doing things right !