I finished my first rod about a week ago and was very pleased with the way it turned out. When I finally got to try it out on the water I caught a 3.2 oz bass on the first cast, needless to say I was very happy although that was the only hit I had in 2 hours of fishing.
I normally fish for largemouth bass but I also fish for striped bass in the local rivers. I was wondering if any one could help give me suggestions on some good blanks for this application. The rod needs to be a 6 to 7 foot, have a pretty good amount of backbone but keep in mind I will be using plugs from 1/4 to 5/8 oz. so a fairly soft tip for the lighter lures is needed. Also this will be a baitcaster that I will be using 50 pound braided spiderwire on. I hope this makes sense and thanks for the help.

Jeff ,
Might check out the hot shot blanks, but they are generally longer.Mag bass blanks woud be your best bet in the length up to 7'.
Another one to consider St. Croix Tidewater series SCII . These would be in the lure ratings you search for. Something like the GI70MM would have a moderate action tip. Excellent dual bass purpose blank.

Rich Garbowski
Richard's Rod & Reel

I love the SCIII series. One rod in this series that I suggest to everyone is the 3C68MXF. It's just a phenomenal all-around blank. A slightly stiffer option is the 3C66MF.