I am still breaking it in and getting used to my new 7ft. Medium, fast action Avid spinning rod. I am matching it with a Shimano Nasci 2500 spinning reel.

So far, it's met and in some cases exceeded my expectations. One of the first fish I caught on it was a huge lake trout. The rod handled it smoothly and easily. It's a gorgeous piece of work. I spent the whole day today on the canal with it and felt bad getting it dirty!

Received 2 7' Avid one-piece rods in a shipping tube, which the carrier managed to crush and bend. Both rods are scuffed up, one with significant damage. St. Croix offered to replace them after I destroy the rods I received and send photos, which I appreciate. Still really bummed I've wasted time with his process and now have to wait 2 more weeks for the rods I need. I'm crazy busy and don't really have time to deal with this, so it's a significant hassle. Not entirely St. Croix's fault, but still frustrating.

Fished the 6'6" MLF and the 6'6"LF this year. After a few hours, these grips cause awful hand pain as they are too small. The designers of this rod made a mistake as I have average size hands and the grip is way too small. Wish they would correct this, as another has noted the 7' rod suffers the same design flaw. Otherwise a great rod. But given you can't grasp this for a full day of fishing without awful hand pain, knocking it two stars. Come on St Croix.

These rods are just the best. Each one I have ordered has been a piece of artwork. Just love them!!

I recently purchased the new spinning rod model 6'6" MLF Avid. I have several of the previous model Avid spinning rods (as well as other SC models). I have always been an Avid fan, but I must say I really like the improvements in the new model. The SCIII blank was awesome, but the SCIII+ blank is even better. Lighter, stronger, and more sensitive … those are are not just sales gimmick statements, they are FACTS!
I also like the new handle design, especially that is is a bit smaller in diameter. I have big hands, but I do like the fit with the smaller diameter, it feels very natural, and I am very thankful that St. Croix kept the full cork handle (it seems like so many other companies are switching to all split grips - to save $ on cork I believe). I love this rod.
Congrats to St. Croix for making a great rod even BETTER! I cannot imagine a better rod made in this price point. The technology in this rod is very advanced.

Well done!