St. Croix Avid X 68MXF vs. 69MLXF

[Big-Bass]

I am looking at getting one of the following rods: Avid X 68MXF or an Avid X 69MLXF. I plan on fishing it mostly in clear to slightly stained water for bass using ned rigs (with head size down to 1/15-1/16oz.), small hair jigs, bitsy tubes, sassy shad style small paddle tailed baits, grubs (3" or 4" with head size no larger than 1/4oz.), some drop shotting, and small Kietech style baits. I know that list is long but I have the opportunity to get either of these rods at a great discount (and I only am getting one ). It would be matched with a 2500/3000 size Shimano Stradic Ci4+ or with my NASCI. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks and best wishes on the water!

[dhottle]

I would suggest the 69MLXF as the best rod for the weights you listed. The ML action would load better for casting with those baits & would be more fun to fish.

[Mattman]

For the lure weights/sizes you listed, definitely the MLXF. If you want to feel those light offerings you need a rod under St. Croix's Medium power.

[Triton Man]

I just purchased both these rods in the last month and have a stradic 2500 fk on both. I think they are very nice but have limited trips with both. I think the handle is comfortable and I like the shorter butt section on my rods. The guide spacing and style is good as well as there is less line slap on the stripper guide than some other rods I own helping increase casting distance some. For the lures you specified I would be throwing those on the ml over the m. I'm hoping to buy a second ml I liked it so much.

[bigfruits]

69MLXF x 4

[alafly]

St croix MLXF is so special you shouldn't miss~~~~~~

If you are a walleye guy most likely you will love it and upgrade to higher level rod of St Croix.

[Obz]

I have the avid 68MF. Love the rod, mostly throw senkos and flukes with it. I'll drop shot from time to time works great.. I can't compare to the ML, but I Don't think I will ever fish a ML rod for bass.

[Obz]

*68MXF. It's a bad ass stick. Sensitive and strong. I yank a ton of river smallies with it, it's light enough for split shots and live bait. I can boss some footballs around with it too.

[BigAl23]

I'm looking at a 68MXF. I plan on using it for jigs up to 1/2 oz, therefore for you I would agree with the above posts and go with the 69MXLF.

[bigfruits]

i had the LE 68MXF and i have the avid 69mlxf. both great rods.

for the jigs and paddletails in the 1st post id grab the Med. for ned rigs and DS, Med Light.

you are not going to like the ML for hard hooksets.

hope that helps.