hey guys, looking to build a rod for 1/4 oz crankbaits, 1/4 and 3/8 oz spinnerbaits. prefer to use only north fork composites blanks. I really only fish for river smallmouths, however they are pretty large and aggressive so some power will be needed. anyone have any suggestions? debating on going with the delta lmx CB701-1, as its a moderate action. my only concern is its rated down to 1/16 oz, will be undergunned fishing for 4+ lb smallies with 1/4 - 3/8 oz spinnerbaits? thanks guys.

other considerations would be the SJ 705-1 (Delta LMX) rated for 3/16 to 5/8 oz, even though its a spin jig and a little faster action.

and the xray 733 that ive built several spinning rods on and love, but havent built any casting rods on yet. I have built a 736 xray casting rod but i believe it would be a little too heavy to fling 1/4 oz crankbaits or spinnerbaits in a breeze.

Josh,
Go with your first choice. It is a good one.
If you get a big fish on a light rod, it is easy to get the fish in. Just point the rod straight toward the fish and winch it in. It will be a great choice.

Lots of cases of folks catching rather large fish on ultra light rods.

Good luck

The blank doesn't care how you built it, or what you throw on it, I see no reason you can't get the information you need on your xray rods built as spinning rods. Your looking for information, not a long term fishing tool.

Double post.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/28/2019 12:37AM by Spencer Phipps.

If you are into catch-and-release you do not want to employ the lightest rod and lightest line to fight your fish - especially when the water warms up.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/28/2019 10:48AM by Phil Ewanicki.

Hello Josh,

I know you said you wanted to stick with NFC..I like them too. Perhaps another good choice for your build may a Bushido CB 72/6-12 or the CB 72/8-15. Both are great cranking rods and aren't too heavy on the wallet.

Best regards,