Gear Review: St. Croix Victory Series

WHAT IS IT?

St. Croix Victory Series

WHAT SETS IT APART? 

St. Croix was so intent on making its new series of bass-centric rods something unique, the company created an all-new super-high modulus hybrid carbon fiber material they’re calling SCIII+. Combining SCVI for backbone and SCIII for the right blend of lightweight performance, sensitivity and value, St. Croix created 25 technique-specific models, each created with Integrated Poly Curve mandrel technology, which removes hinge points and Advanced Reinforcing Technology to fortify the transitions.

HOW DO I USE IT? 

St. Croix released the first eight of its Victory series rods in March, with the remaining models set to debut at ICAST trade show in July. Five casting models range from 7-1 to 7-4 lengths with medium-heavy and heavy powers and medium to extra-fast actions. Spinning rods are 6-10 to 7-3, medium and medium-light with fast and extra-fast actions. Features include Fuji Concept “O” guides with deep inserts, Fuji SK2 and VSS real seats (casting, spin), split-grip super-grade cork handles customized per model and hook keepers positioned per technique. 

HOW MUCH?

$180 and $250 

MORE INFORMATION: 

Stcroixrods.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

When St. Croix Marketing Manager Jesse Simpkins first described the Victory series, he noted that the name certainly relates to tournament success but then shared a couple of equally relevant points. First, production demands required hiring additional craftsmen, which brought more jobs to Park Falls, Wisc., continuing St. Croix’s history of multi-generational family workers. Also, delivering high-end rods for less than $200 (most models) will help equip new anglers with competitive tools at affordable pricing. Victory all around.