Hello:

I'm looking for a new 50/60 lb rod to pair with my new Avet LX Raptor. I'll be mainly fishing 1.5 to 3 day trips with this, it currently has a bunch of 80lb spectra and i was thinking i'd change the topshots between 50 and 60.

I was originally thinking of getting one of those light slim Phenix rods, but then i ran across the stealth listing on the tackle store and what i read gave me the impression that the Stealth is comparable to Phenix rods.

Anyone have any experience with the Seeker Stealth or another recommendation?

Thanks

I look at the Stealth/MGC series as entry level rods from Seeker. Nice pieces at that level, but not up to the high quality of their Black Steel, Hercules or certainly Super Seeker models. Construction materials are far different. Nothing within the Stealth series for handling the heavier lines that you mention. Given what you have for a reel, a nice one capable of pulling some serious drag and casting very well, I'd strongly suggest the Hercules series - very strongly. Alternatively Calstar's Grafighters have some wonderful pieces for the line test your reel is capable of working with. Both of those manufacturers are based here in California, both USA produced and both better pieces than the Chinese made Phenix rods you mention in my opinion.

JWENN, I had the same problem you are having now last year in regards to matching rods with the Avet JX & LX Raptor reels...After some long research on pulling some rods and expert advice from Charkbait, I decided on the Seeker Super Seeker SS6480H 8' and SS6480 8' rods...I have the JX on SS6480 and the LX on the SS640H...Both reels and rods work wonderfully this past Bluefin, yellowfin and yellowtail season. I spooled 65lbs braid on both reels and used 40lbs to 60lbs short length topshots...The rods have enough backbone and sensitivity to perform the job....You know the Fred Hall Show is approaching in March 2014. I was able to get a great deal from Charkbait for both of these rods....If you have a chance, go pull on these rods and see what you think....SEE YOU ON THE BIG WATER!!!!!

Mark,

Thanks for the reply, i'll check the Hercules out this weekend.

Mike,

Thanks for the reply. I heard the 8 foot rods don't have the pulling power of the shorter rods, did you notice that? I'm a small guy so i don't want to make it any harder.

Thanks,

JWENN, don't believe the "hype" in regards to the pulling power of the 8' rods...I had no problems pulling and reeling the 60lbs plus BFT with either rods. Both rods are built for it...As you know, let the rod do the work for you when fighting a fish...Casting out jigs is where they prove the best in my estimation, the extra lenght...I am 6' tall and had no problems with them...In fact, I will be purchasing me another at the Fred Hall Show for my Christmas gift I received, another Avet MXL Raptor 6/4 reel. I am very pleased with all of my Seeker Rods, but I am extremely satisfied with the Super Seeker Rods I have...It is like everything, you have to try various rod's makes and models to find what you think is comfortable for you...Good luck and keep a tight line...SEE YA ON THE BIG WATER!!!