I am undecided on a steelhead blank and would like some input. I have been looking at the St. Croix, SC2 86MH2. I have fished this blank for a few years now. I like it. But now I am looking at the MHX St 1024F blank. If you were to build on one of these for yourself, which one would you choose? And why?

Thank you in advance for your input.

The MHX will give you the same or better performance, quality, and warranty at a price that will make you smile. I have built a couple of the 1024's for hotshotting rods for a local river guide, he loves them. These blanks are the real deal.

Not to thread steal too much. I live a long ways from salmon/steelhead country so I have no way to feel the blanks. I do like hot shot blanks a lot. How do the other salmon and steelhead blanks compare to them? I know what a backbounce blank and want to try one. Any reasonable priced good ones around?

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

Selfishly, I hope you try the MHX and report back! I have considered that exact blank as it looks like the right power, length and weight to me.

The St Croix has the advantage of being made in the USA. You could also look higher up the St Croix food chain.

Last thing to consider--I recently finished a Batson XST1085 for Coho fishing in AK. I have only test casted it so far, but it's a very nice fast action blank and the steel gray finish goes with almost any thread color.

Drew
Sacramento, Ca (On the banks of a river with steelhead, but sadly, I've never caught one here.)

Jim,
Another pair of manufacturers that live in Steel Head country -
Are
Lamiglas and
Rogue

Take care
Roger

Jim,
the MHX model you are looking at is a faster action than the STC model. The modulus of the blank is considerably higher and is a more sensitive rod. The MHX blank is 1/2 oz. lighter.

Todd

Regards,
Todd Vivian
Mud Hole Custom Tackle

todd@mudhole.com