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Well I think I might have found the swimbait rod everyone here is looking for, and if not, one of the rods in this lineup will work. I have tested the Okuma GS-C-7111XHa for a little bit and am very impressed with it. This is the newer version of the Okuma Guide Select rods and this one is rated for baits between 2-10 ounces. I have spent the majority of the time with this rod throwing the new Savage Gear 3D Bluegill line through that weighs 4 ounces and this rod handles it well. The rod loads appropriately and makes the cast seem somewhat effortless. I have tried several different swimbaits on this rod. As you get to the lower end of the ratings, the rod doesn't seem to be as efficient, but will work. I think 3 ounces is where the rod starts to really shine.
Now let me tell you where this rod really shines! I have found the rod for the 8” Hudd. A staple in every swimbait angler’s arsenal, and a bait that has accounted for hundreds of bass greater than 10 pounds. I am starting to think, the designers of this rod took out a handful of 8” Hudds and designed a rod around it. What geniuses if this is the case! I have thrown both the ROF 12 and the ROF 16 on this rod and since then have not taken one off. Both baits are right around 5 ounces and this must be the sweet spot of this rod!
Now, I hear so many people not wanting a “technique specific” rod in their arsenal and wanting rods that can be used for multiple applications. And then you see the label on this rod as being a “swimbait rod” and that is truly what is excels at, but I think this rod would also be a nice rod for an umbrella/Alabama rig. Once you think about the weights of an A-rig with a 3/8oz head and then 3-5 different swimbait heads, plus the weights of all the plastics getting to 3 ounces is not only quite easy, but also very common. This rod will handle an A-rig for sure.
This rod is a broomstick. Do not think this rod is going to throw your 1 ounce swimbaits. This is not the rod for a 4” plastic swimbait on a 1/2oz jighead. But if you are looking for a rod to throw the big baits, that catch the big bass, this could very well be the rod for you. There are a couple other rods in this lineup for people wanting to thrown a bit smaller or even a bit larger swimbaits, so if you think this rod isn't exactly what you are looking for, make sure to check out the others as well.
For under $130 at most retail outlets, I am very impressed with the rod and even though I started this review as a rod for “starter swimbaiters” or “budget swimbaiters” I think this line of rod has proven itself over time to be a winner and many swimbaiters of all experience either already have this in their arsenal or will have them in their arsenals once they try them!