Can't go wrong with that St Croix blank, but the one piece issues in transportation is what sent me looking for a two piece alternative in the longer length rods. I have a great 7ft one piece St. Croix but it never could travel safely to VA in the wife's car for some great panfishing action at my daughters house. Research here on this website and a gentleman named Randy Goad ( Alphahawk) sent me down the JDM road of no return. Good luck with the new stick.