I started writing a response to a question posed by our beloved Phil in a different thread. Being that it was derailing the topic I figured I would move it here.
Original thread here. [
www.rodbuilding.org]
Phil Ewanicki Wrote:
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> What are the distinguishing characteristics of a
> "crank bait rod"? I ask because crank baits vary
> widely in their actions and the resistance they
> create when in use.
To keep cranking simple, I break it into three categories.
Deep cranks (20' +/-) I am looking for a blank with a bit more power. I want it to load the top third during retrieve and load deep into the middle of the blank during the fight. It is usually no shorter than 7'6" because cast distance is critical to reach max depth. Usually I find this in a blend of carbon and glass. (IP 850+/-, AA rated for lure size because it is more important to see how it loads vs how just the top 1/3 bends.)
Squarebills) I use a blank slightly lighter in power but with a faster action so I can react to bouncing off wood and rocks. I prefer mine around 7' long. In my area I typically throw 1.5s. (IP 550-600 +/-, AA 70 +/-)
Lipless/bladebaits) I like to use a rod with almost as much power as my deep crank but with a load only about halfway into the blank. This is because I am ripping grass or bouncing rocks that will claim your bait if you don't react to the obstruction fast enough. You also aren't going to get bit without hitting the obstruction either. (IP 700 +/-, AA 75 +/-)
Note 1: The IP and AA are just starting points to see if the blank has potential. The CCS ratings simply help me eliminate 90% of the field. There is not a magic number for the perfect blank.
Note2: I say the AA does not matter so much in the Deep cranks because with blend rods the AA can test high in static but it doesn't tell the full tale. A perfect example is the MB 765 NEO. It is IP 865 with an AA of 77. With such a high AA you typically don't get a deep loading blank. But because of the materials and tapers, it does indeed load well into the blank and is not as resistive as you might think looking at the numbers.
I personally use CCS as a tool to help find a starting point. Much in the same way the load data in the Hornady reload book is just a starting point. You can eliminate a super majority of the field instantly if you know what to look for.
