My new cod/tuna jigging rod

[kilsong]

I got my new 7'6" St. Croix custom rod from Rodwinder along with 7'6" OTI custom rod this morning. Both are rated to 80 lbs and are acid wrapped.
The St. Croix rod from 4M76XHF blank is amazing.
I think the rod/blank is the lightest among 7'6" rods/blanks rated to 80 lbs. The blank weighs only 5 1/2 oz and the completed rod weighs only 12 1/2 oz !
The only question is the light rod can endure heavy pressure of tuna.
I am going to test the rod intensively on upcoming tuna trips.

OTI's 7'6" popping blank is used for the custom conventional acid wrapped rod. Due to the recent airline new regulations, we can not carry over 7' rods for free on airplanes anymore. I found the two-piece OTI's 7'6" rods rated to 80 lbs is a good choice for trevaling
on airplane and the blanks are strong enough for any tuna under 150 lbs. I even carry-on the two-piece rods on airplanes.

Beautiful wrapping job by rodwinder
St Croix 7'6" conventional rod




OTI 7'6" conventional rod

[HOLWACHAGOT]

They are very nice looking. I am sure you will put them to the test.
Holwachagot

[merry marlin]

Thanks for sharing, that is some real pretty work...
Have fun testing your new Toys, what reels and line do you plan to put on ?
Looking forward to picutres of your next trip!
MM

[Sea Draggin]

Those are cool wraps on that OTI for a stock rod!!!

I am having a spiral wrap made right now for my saltiga 30T. This is what I have seen so far from Riley Rods down here in Carolina.

[paul708]

Kil..thanks for posting
how is the joint on the st.croix?
is it a butt joint?

[kilsong]

Paul, St Croix rod is one piece to be used locally.

[paul708]

ok ..got it..that is the M series..that looks like a serious blank to check out. for a 1 pc
hope it works well