If you’ve been reading my blog for awhile, you’re aware that I really enjoy St. Croix Rods. While I’ve written about them many times in the past, I thought it would be good to write a more detailed review for you. I’m going to start with a review on the St. Croix Triumph Spinning and Casting Rods. I’ll tell you if they’re worth it and what type of techniques I’d use them for.
Is the St. Croix Triumph a Good Fishing Rod?
In my opinion, the St. Croix Triumph is a really good fishing rod for anyone who is passionate about fishing, but doesn’t have hundreds of dollars to spend on a setup. They are St. Croix’s “entry level” model and available at most sporting goods stores (their higher end stuff often isn’t), but don’t let this dissuade you. An entry level St. Croix rod is still a great purchase, and miles above many other manufacturers.
While you aren’t getting the best components the company has to offer, this is still a great rod that is relatively lightweight and sensitive. The SCII graphite blank has held up to everything my son and I have put it up against without fail. I also appreciate how it has a classic look. I know that is cosmetic, but I’m not much for the flashy rods out there. The Triumph series has a very subdued look to it which I appreciate.
If you don’t have a nice rod yet, then this is a great one to start with. If you do have “better” rods, then this can still be a good addition to your arsenal. I own most types of rods that St. Croix makes from the Triump to the Legend Xtreme and I’ll tell you, you don’t need a hypersensitive blank for every technique. You can save yourself a lot of money by being sensible and picking up a few from the Triumph series for your spinnerbaits and other lures that don’t require the same sensitivity.
Versatility
One great thing about this tier of rods is that they are versatile. With six types in its “family,” there’s a rod for every situation.
You can buy St. Croix Triumph spinning and casting rods in either single piece or as two-piece travel rod. The Triumph lineup also has dedicated salmon and steelhead spinning and casting rods. Finally, there is “the big boy” Triumph Musky rod, though this is only available as a casting rod.
Available Rod Length, Power, and Action in the Triumph Lineup
The St. Croix Triumphs add to their versatility by coming in a lew of sizes, powers, and actions. For example, the spinning rod can be found in lengths from 5′ all the way to 7’6 and powers ranging from ultra light to medium heavy. The smaller sizes work well with kids making this a great birthday present for a grandchild. They light up knowing they have a “special” rod, and you don’t break the bank buying it for them.
There aren’t as many options with the St. Croix Triumph casting rods, but that is because you don’t throw as light of tackle on baitcasters. There are currently five models available in the base spinning, ranging from a 6′ medium power / fast action to a 7′ medium heavy power / fast action. If I was getting started, I’d grab the latter as it would work well for spinnerbaits, plastic worms, and lighter jigs.
If you’re looking for a rod that could handle plastic frogs and heavier jigs, remember that you do have the option of beefing up to the St. Croix Musky lineup. They have several models, such as their 7’6″ Heavy / Fast action that would work just fine for tossing a few toads.
I don’t fish much for salmon or steelhead but the Triumph series comes in a variety of longer models to accommodate fishing for those species. I see no reason why they too wouldn’t be quality products.
You Can Fish for Darn Near Anything
All of this versatility means that you can fish for just about anything with these rods. The ultralight models are great for panfish and the Musky models are great for… Well… Musky.
If you like throwing crankbaits, you can find some medium light models that would work well. The 6’6″ medium / fast rod would do just fine with jerkbaits, and as said above, there are plenty for worms and spinnerbaits. This means that if there’s any hole in your arsenal of fishing rods, you can plug it affordably. That’s important in this day and age.
Where are St. Croix Triumph Rods Made?
If you are looking for an American-made rod, the Triumph will disappoint. While it is designed in Park Falls, Wisconsin, it is manufactured in Fresnillo, Mexico.
Do St. Croix Triumph Rods Come With a Warranty?
The St. Croix Triumph lineup comes with a five year warranty. St. Croix rods offer good warranty service in general (trust me, I’ve had to use it a few times). You should visit their website for full details as they seem to strive to make this better each year. For example, I see they now have an “Excelerator” program that will get you a rod much more quickly, as they’re able to process it based on a photo.
Would I Buy One of These Rods for My Kid?
My children are still young so casting rods are out of the question, but I have purchased a St. Croix Triumph spinning rod for my son. I wouldn’t recommend this as the first rod you purchase for a kid. You’ll want to ensure they like the sport first, and also make sure they know how to take care of their stuff, as this is no Ugly Stik, but I’d have no qualms about recommending this rod for any child who fits that bill.
What Reel Should I Pair This With?
You could put pretty much any spinning or casting reel on a Triumph but, again, one of the benefits of this tier is it isn’t that expensive. It wouldn’t make much sense to take out a second mortgage for a reel for this rod. Instead, I’d keep things simple. I have Plfueger Trions paired with my Triumphs and they work quite well. For casting, I’d go with a Pro Qualifier from Bass Pro which you can often get on sale.
Conclusions
If you’re in the market for your first “nice” rod, it’s hard to beat a St. Croix Triumph spinning or casting rod. They comes in enough lengths, powers, and actions to allow for many presentations and does this all without being too expensive. It is also backed by a 5-year warranty and St. Croix’s great customer service. I own several and wouldn’t hesitate to buy more if my wife wasn’t looking.
Finally, I’d like to invite you to join my new Facebook group to be updated on new articles. I’ve thought about how best to reach folks and decided that I hate mailing lists, so Facebook is the way to go. Please consider liking the page so we can keep in touch.
-Thanks,
John Paxton
