Blog
Data studies and findings from the catalog, by A. Anders. Every number comes with its sample size. Long-form buyer's guides and explainers live under Guides. RSS
- New in the Catalog: September 2026
St. Croix rebuilt the Triumph line for 2027, Shimano Europe launched nine series, and Japan got a new herabuna pole family. Plus 607 older rods cataloged for the first time.
- Fiberglass Rods by the Numbers
Glass is about 3% of the catalog and its share isn't growing. But on a short rod the weight penalty nearly disappears, and glass costs less than carbon from the same maker.
- Japanese vs American Rod Power Ratings, Measured on 2,589 Bass Rods
A casting rod rated to 3/4 oz is usually an M in Japan and an MH in the US. Look closer and American brands disagree with each other by more than they disagree with Japan.