LTA or Composite

[zelmo]

I want to get a rod for crankbaits. I have a couple of LTAs and like them, but I see there is a composite rod in the Magnesium TS line made for this (MgCBCGGM66). I need to decide between that and the LTA (HE66MC). Can someone tell me how they differ when on the water? The money difference is not an issue.

[kistlero]

There is a big difference in the two rods.

Helium is faster, stiffer, lighter.
Mg Comp is slower, softer, slightly heavier, split grip cork handle. Best for super shallow, light crankbaits but ok with deeper divers.

Hope this helps a bit,

[zelmo]

Thanks, Trey. I had heard some say a glass rod was better for crankbaits, which is why the Mg composite caught my eye. Should I go with the medium in the LTA for crankbaits and topwater? I already have the HE69MHC and HE70MHC.

[kistlero]

glass or a composite mix is typically preferred by pros for treble hook baits worked in and around open water. Graphite has a little more power to jerk the bait out of grass if needed. The Helium will work for most all the baits you might throw. Go with what you are most comfortable and confident.

[RBelott]

I use my LTA Heavy for my deep divers and my LTA med/heavy for shallow cranks.

[Chris Wiggins]

I have two of the...Crank Bait Composite Glass/Graphite 7' Medium Fishing Rods, and I really like the action throwing traps and shallow running cranks, usually in open shallow water and around some wood. It has a great hook setting action to let those small trebles grip. I also like the castability...with a flick of the wrist a small bait will sail.

Next on my list for deeper cranks is the 7'6" One Piece MH LTA...I hear this is a great performer. Especially when throwing the DD22 style baits.

Good luck...

[DrKurt]

Hey there...

I have owned 4-5 crank bait rods and 20-30 LTA's of various sizes, if you are throwing shallow and medium cranks or traps, the 7' LTA is great.....real small ones go with Med, med to large go with Med Hvy, if its a deep diver 22 or so, go with the 7'6MH LTA.......they are both great rods, but the LTA is lighter and will give u less fatigue........additionally, it allows you more variety with what u r throwing.....u can use it with worms, jigs, spinner baits, and anything else under the sun........the cranking rod is nice for very specific crankin......if money is no object, u can buy one of each and compare them and if u dont like one, sell it on ebay or to a friend....they hold their resale incredibly

Blessings
kurt