St. Croix Panfish Series...Which One?

[pwcb2005]

I know this has been addressed before, but I would like some advice on a new rod.

I am considering spending the most I ever have on a new panfish rod and I believe I have narrowed it down to the St.Croix Panfish Series and I am looking at going with the Light Extra Fast 7'.

I use 12' jig poles for my vertical jigging/slip bobber minnow setups and I had a light action Wally Marshall 5'2" rod that I broke 3 inches off of that I was using for casting jigs and minnow/bobber rigs. My jigs are usually 1/32-1/8 oz.

I have a fiberglass BP Microlite UL in 7'6" so I do have an UL.

So, should I look at the 6'9" ultralight, or the 6'4" Light with Fast action? I don't know which is the best for crappie and bream fishing using my methods. I really feel that light is probably more versitile for someone who can only afford one of these rods right now.

Opinions? Thanks in advance!

[Barnacle Bill]

When I retired I bought myself the finest rod I have or ever have had is my St Croix PS66ULF. I can cast a 1/16 oz jig a country mile with it and it handles like a dream. I guess the high end Shimano reel has a lot to do with it but I have never had a better rig.

[BobC]

When I retired I bought myself the finest rod I have or ever have had is my St Croix PS66ULF. I can cast a 1/16 oz jig a country mile with it and it handles like a dream. I guess the high end Shimano reel has a lot to do with it but I have never had a better rig.

I think you’re right that a decent reel and a good quality line are important parts of the equation. Lately I’ve realized how a good quality nylon line contributes to casting and playing a fish.

[BIGFISHNFREAK]

When I retired I bought myself the finest rod I have or ever have had is my St Croix PS66ULF. I can cast a 1/16 oz jig a country mile with it and it handles like a dream. I guess the high end Shimano reel has a lot to do with it but I have never had a better rig.

I have a couple of the st. Croix priemer series , they are nice rods. Was looking at a new 2 PC 7' ultra light. They sure became pricey, I paid 55-65 years ago . Now 160.00
Time flies

[trypman1]

The UL extra fast for me. I use JDM rods and they are great, but I have always wanted a St. Croix, you will enjoy.

[Greenwing]

I have the St Croix Panfish 7ft light extra fast, absolutely love it. It's lightweight but has enough backbone for a good hook set.

[Schmoopie]

Without laying hands on them, I'm a bit surprised that the 6'4" light is rated for 1/32-3/16 ounce baits (same as the ultralight) -- using Bass Pro's site. However, St. Croix's site says 1/16-1/4 ounce for the 6'4" light -- that makes more sense.

So, since you cast 1/32-1/8 ounce jigs, assuming you don't use multiple 1/8 ounce jigs at the same time, I'd say the UL would be the better choice. I'm assuming BPS's site is incorrect on the lure weight. I'd expect a 1/16 ounce to cast better on the UL vs the L too.

[Bricks]

For pure fun the 6`6 UL is hard to beat, the 7` UL is fun but a tad bit stiffer ( more back bone ) a good 12 inch Crappie will about double over the 6`6 which I really enjoy. As light as it is I have still managed to land a 34" Northern weighing right at 9 lbs, he was a tank in the weeds. Reels for longer casting look for a wider spool the line comes off easier, try and stay in the 1000 size.

Have fun and good luck in your choice.