For the Toggers: Rod advice needed

[Bucktail]

I'm looking to get a new rod for blackfishing.  I don't wreck fish all that much and my old 7' G. Loomis Musky stick has served me well for the times that I do. 
But, like many others of you who share the same affliction, it seems I constantly have a tackle monkey on my back, and only a new rod will make him happy!
 
I'm going to put my Torium 16 on it with 50# or 65# braid.

Here's the catch.  For certain reasons the rod needs to be either a St. Croix, Shimano, or Daiwa.

The rod I was leaning towards is the 7' St. Croix Premier Saltwater SWC70MHF.  It is a fast action rod and is rated for 20-40 lb. line.  A friend of mine has one and he likes it a lot.  http://www.stcroixrods.com/rods/default2.asp?rodname=34&section=salt

So toggers, what do you think?  Am I on the right track?  Any other rod suggestions (keeping in mind the limited brands I can choose from)?

Thanks all,
Bob

[Duffman]

I'd love to answer.  I have a few sticks I use for tog  but none are of the brands you are looking for.


   I'm guessing you get a deal on the St C, Diawa, and Shimano rods?

[Skolmann]

St. Croix PM70MHF in addition to what I mentioned in the other thread.

[gottog]

Rod looks nice, just don't like the slotted butt cap

[bayonne]

try a tsunami great rod for the money 

[mboy]

If money is a major object, then Tsunami's are nice for sure.

I just used a $20 ass Pro 6'3" Muskie rod (XH 14-40lb) with my Avet SX (50lb braid) and was VERY happy with the performance on togs last week.

Should handle weights up to 8oz no problem.

If heavier, have to step up on rod size to 30-40lb rod.

[fishinfool]

If money is a major object, then Tsunami's are nice for sure.

I just used a $20 ass Pro 6'3" Muskie rod (XH 14-40lb) with my Avet SX (50lb braid) and was VERY happy with the performance on togs last week.

Should handle weights up to 8oz no problem.

If heavier, have to step up on rod size to 30-40lb rod.

I'm pretty sure he meant Bass Pro 

[mboy]

ass pro bass bro, is there a difference?

[Bucktail]

 

Thanks Mboy. Money is not that much of an object, since my wife is buying me this rod for my birthday!

I agree that the Tsunamis are a great rod for the money (especially for the price Mboy got his for).  But when the tackle monkey starts acting up it usually takes some higher end stuff to calm him down!
 
A friend of mine is going to loan me his St. Croix for the Bandit trip, so I can get a feel for it.  He loves this rod for blackfishing and says it can handle 14oz. easy.  So, if I like that one I'll order it.  If not the search will continue...

[ped579]

Good luck in your search.

Trying out the rod is a good idea and that is why I look towards a shop that makes custom rods.  Even better yet one that will let you try out a similar rod already made this way you can judge for your self.

Everyone being of different stature can be a bit of a problem taking suggestions.  Make sure you can at least feel the rod in your hands before you purchase it, preferable with the reel you intend using.

Paul