I have wanted to build a St Croix salmon/steelhead blank for awhile and Mudhole has the 2010 SCV models on sale for 25% off. So an SCIII with the same specs can be had for $140 and an SCV (from 2010) is $153. I am thinking it's worth the $13 to get their top of the line blank even if it is last year's model.

Just wanted to see if the forum had any thoughts here.

Specs:
Salmon/Steelhead spinning -target species is Coho salmon in Alaska
9 Feet
8-17 pound test line
3/8 - 1 oz lures

I plan to build it with Fuji KL/KT guides in a NGC format..

I have previously built Batson Rx7 and Rx8 (love this rod) versions of the same thing and would appreciate any comparisons. It's the off season now and time to upgrade the equipment! So SCIII vs SCV (2010)?

Thanks.

Drew

A Rainshadow RX8+ would be a closer comparison to the 2010 St Croix SCV. You won't ever go wrong with the SCIII series. This does seem like a good time to try the premium lineup, however.

Grab the SCV!

Raymond Adams
Eventually, all things merge, and a river runs through it..

Might talk to Andy at Rodbuilder Supplies. When I talked with him about the St Croix blanks, a few months ago, he steered me away of them. Never really went past the point he was not particularly impressed with the salmon/steelhead blanks, but it was good enough for me. Of course this is a Northwest perspective.

Drew,
The St. Croix blanks are fine blanks and I have built many rods using St. Croix blanks.

One of the nicest blanks for steel head fishing comes out of steel head country from Lamiglass. So, you might want to check into those blanks before making your final blank buying decision.

Take care
Roger

Thanks.

I will look at Lamiglass, that is a good suggestion. I have never fished built or used a Lamiglass blank, so worth looking into.

The reason I am interested in the SCV rod is I have an SCV fly rod that is the best I own. I was thinking the Salmon/Steelhead would be worth a try, and I'm interested in comparing it to my RX8 salmon/steelhead rod that I made for this year.

I have my order all set at Mudhole, I just need to pull the trigger.

Drew.

Drew,
I have to agree with Roger on this. I think you will find different actions between the SCV and the Lami. What type of application do you intend it for and where are you fishing it at?

Todd

Regards,
Todd Vivian
Mud Hole Custom Tackle

todd@mudhole.com

Todd R. Vivian Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Drew,
> I have to agree with Roger on this. I think you
> will find different actions between the SCV and
> the Lami. What type of application do you intend
> it for and where are you fishing it at?
>
> Todd


I'll be taking it to Alaska for our yearly trip there for Cohos in the 10-15 pound range. This is river fishing casting spinners around 1/2 once, standing in the water--ie no boat. I usually fish with 12 or 14 pound test, if that matters.

As mentioned I have built a number of similar rods, and I'm always looking for an excuse to build another or upgrade my gear, especially with something made in the USA. My fishing buds will get my hand-me-downs.

Thanks!

Drew

If yo uchoose the St Croix, make sure you ask them for a straight one! The last few blanks I have had from them were seriously bent to the point that they are difficult to wrap (not to mention the odd appearance). To their credit though, all blanks were replaced.

St Croix bent ???????

Bill - willierods.com

Oh yeah.. one had a tip 8mm off centre.