I prefer a fast action rod, one that initially flexes in the upper 1/3 of the blank. However, I want one with a "soft(?)" tip so as not to rip the lips off o'dem sacolait or jerk a crankbait out of a bass' mouth. Most crankbait rods I see are moderate action, initially flexing in the upper 1/2 of the blank. Not what I want. So, what characteristics of a blank will tell me that it does or should have a tip that is slower on recovery? I believe this is a reference to the speed of the blank but blanks are not labeled as a certain speed. Just power and action. Is there any one or combination of characteristics (i.e. taper , power/action, tip size, etc.) that will tell me what to expect from the blank with regards to speed? Or, do you have to get in a room full of blanks and try em all till you find what you're looking for.
Thanks,
Greg

You would then need to look into a fibergalss blank to have a slower reacting rod if you don't want a moderate action graphite crankbait blank.

Sounds like you might be looking for a popping or live bait type blank. They tend to be fast actions but with "light" tips for casting fragile live baits. Something along the lines of the MHX P-842 would do a pretty good job for bass and inshore saltwater applications.
But, I could be wrong.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10/20/2011 01:28PM by matthew jacobs.

Glass rods respond and react more slowly than most graphite rods. In a graphite, you'll have to look at not only a fast action, but a small diameter tip which could indicate that it's also a lighter, softer tip. You can also step back a few graphite generations to get little bit slower recover.

In answer to your main question, most companies don't list rod speed in their catalogs. Best you can do without the CCS frequency component is to try and deduce the relative speed from the material and whatever catalog description the manufacturer provides.

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If you have Lamiglas rods in your area, check out the XC 704's action. Uses the LP 844 the fast action popping rod blank.
Rogue also makes a fast action popping rod blank of milder modulus, definitely soft tipped.
I've used them both for cranks and smaller treble hooked swimbaits, personal preference is the LP 844 or 904.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10/20/2011 11:04AM by Spencer Phipps.

Rogue doesnt offer popping blanks any longer. They cut a bunch of their line up.

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Greg,
I know exactly the rod type and style that you are searching for. But I will ask the question, why do you want this particular action for your rod?
What are you hoping to gain by having a rod with this action, speed and power?

The reason that I ask the question is that I have had other friends and fishermen ask me the same thing and we go fishing. We go through a bunch of different rods, with a variety of different actions and at the end of the day, virtually none of the folks are fishing with a rod like you describe, although I have some in the boat.

If you can answer the reason why you want this particular rod, perhaps I can send you in the direction to get this particular blank.

Roger

Greg,

Take a look at a Batson ISJ781, or SJ781. The ISJ781 has a limber tip and fast action. The mid section of this blank feels a lot like the mid section of the CB66M, with the butt section being a tad more powerful. It makes a great crappie rod, that you can cast without changing your casting stroke much (when compared to other more powerful fast action rods). It also has the right power through the mid and butt sections for throwing light crankbaits and doing a good job of keeping the fish buttoned up.

Joe

Greg, maybe take a look at a fast action blank that you like but go a step down in power. The tip should still be just as fast, yet softer. I would suggest the ISJ series like Joe mentioned as well as the XSW series. I am a huge fan of the XSW's. [www.getbitoutdoors.com]

Tight Lines and Bull's-eyes,

Get Bit Outdoors
407-542-7840
www.GetBitOutdoors.com
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10/20/2011 01:53PM by Get Bit Outdoors.Com.

Thanks guys.

Greg
What size (weight) baits and what species are you fishing for?

Mr. Vanfossen has given you some good advice, but the models he noted may be a little light for some of the larger crank baits.
Personal I like a fast action popping blanks of differing strengths depending on the size of the crank bait being used

Batson RX8 blanks are what your looking for. I love them because the tips are like noodles with one heck of a strong back bone.

Greg take a look at this:

Right on target in reply to your post.

When you get to the information please read The Rest of The Story - this issue has taken the past two years of my OCD life!

[rodbuilding.org]