First Impressions of Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz.
As an avid angler with over a decade of experience chasing everything from largemouth bass in murky swamps to finicky trout in high-mountain streams, I’ve always appreciated the nuances of a well-crafted fishing rod. When I first laid eyes on the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz., I was immediately intrigued. The Phenix name carries weight in the fishing world, known for quality and innovation, but could this particular rod live up to the hype surrounding their glass offerings?
My hunt for the perfect crankbait rod stemmed from a persistent issue: losing too many fish on treble hooks. Graphite rods, while sensitive, often transmit too much shock, leading to pulled hooks, especially with aggressive strikes. I needed a rod with more “give,” something that would allow the fish to really inhale the bait before laying into them.
Upon unboxing, the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg presented itself as a serious piece of equipment. The blue blank is eye-catching without being gaudy, and the guides appeared to be robust and well-aligned. The rod felt surprisingly light for a glass rod, a welcome departure from the “noodle” perception some anglers have of fiberglass.
Compared to my existing graphite crankbait rods, such as a St. Croix Legend Tournament Bass and a G. Loomis GLX, the Phenix had a noticeably softer action. It promised the kind of shock absorption I was seeking, but I was slightly concerned about the potential for a lack of sensitivity. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of anticipation to see how it would perform on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial field test of the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg took place on a local lake known for its healthy population of largemouth bass and submerged timber. I paired the rod with a Lew’s Speed Spool LFS reel spooled with 12lb fluorocarbon and tied on a 1/2 oz squarebill crankbait. The conditions were ideal: overcast skies with a slight chop on the water.
Casting the crankbait was effortless. The rod loaded beautifully, providing excellent distance and accuracy. The moderate action allowed the bait to run true, even when bumping into submerged logs. However, the real test came when a chunky 3-pounder hammered the crankbait. The rod loaded up perfectly, absorbing the shock of the strike and preventing me from setting the hook too hard. The fish was securely hooked, and the fight was on. I landed it without issue, confirming my initial hope that this rod would improve my landing ratio.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of dedicated use, the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg has become a staple in my arsenal. It has proven its worth in various conditions, from scorching summer days to chilly fall evenings. The durability is impressive; the rod has withstood countless casts, hard strikes, and even a few accidental bumps without showing any signs of wear and tear.
Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each trip is all it takes to keep the rod looking and performing its best. Compared to my higher-modulus graphite rods, which require more careful handling, the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg feels almost indestructible. It has definitely outperformed my expectations, proving to be a reliable and effective tool for targeting fish with crankbaits.
Breaking Down the Features of Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz.
Specifications
The Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz. boasts the following specifications that contribute to its effectiveness as a crankbait rod:
- Manufacturer: Phenix
- Rod Type: Casting
- Length: 7ft 4in
- Rod Action: Moderate
- Number of Sections: 1 Piece
- Line Weight: 8 – 20 lbs
- Lure Weight: 1/4 – 1 oz
The 7’4″ length provides excellent casting distance and leverage for fighting fish. The moderate action is the key to its crankbait-specific design, allowing for a delayed hookset and preventing pulled hooks. The 8-20lb line weight rating offers versatility for various crankbait sizes and fishing conditions. The 1/4 – 1 oz lure weight rating makes it ideal for throwing most popular crankbaits.
Performance & Functionality
The Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg excels at its intended purpose: fishing crankbaits. The rod’s moderate action and glass construction provide the perfect blend of sensitivity and shock absorption. It allows anglers to feel the bait’s vibration and detect subtle strikes without sacrificing the ability to keep fish pinned on treble hooks.
The rod’s strength lies in its ability to maintain constant pressure on the fish throughout the fight, preventing them from throwing the hook. A minor weakness is that the softer action might not be ideal for ripping crankbaits through heavy cover where a more immediate hookset is required. Overall, the rod meets and exceeds expectations for a dedicated crankbait rod.
Design & Ergonomics
The Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg features a clean and functional design. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality guides and a comfortable reel seat. The weight is surprisingly light for a glass rod, reducing fatigue during long days on the water.
The ergonomic design makes the rod comfortable to fish with for extended periods. The rod’s balance is excellent, and the handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. There’s virtually no learning curve; the rod feels intuitive and easy to use from the first cast.
Durability & Maintenance
The glass construction of the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg contributes to its exceptional durability. The rod is built to withstand the rigors of regular use and accidental bumps. The finish is resistant to scratches and fading, ensuring that the rod will maintain its appearance for years to come.
Maintenance is simple; just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. The guides are corrosion-resistant, minimizing the need for specialized cleaning products. With proper care, the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the standard rod sleeve. However, its versatility makes it compatible with a wide range of reels and line types. While not specifically customizable, anglers can easily adjust the reel and line to suit their individual preferences and fishing conditions.
It pairs well with most standard baitcasting reels. I prefer a reel with a moderate gear ratio for crankbait fishing, allowing me to maintain a consistent retrieve speed.
Pros and Cons of Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz.
Pros
- Exceptional Hook-Up Ratio: The moderate action dramatically reduces the number of lost fish on treble hooks.
- Excellent Casting Distance and Accuracy: The rod loads beautifully, allowing for effortless and precise casts.
- Surprisingly Lightweight: Reduces fatigue during long days on the water.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use.
- Enhanced Sensitivity for a Glass Rod: Allows anglers to feel the bait’s vibration and detect subtle strikes.
Cons
- Not Ideal for Heavy Cover: The moderate action may not be powerful enough for ripping crankbaits through dense vegetation.
- Single-Piece Design: The one-piece construction can make it difficult to transport in smaller vehicles.
Who Should Buy Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz.?
The Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg is perfect for anglers who primarily fish crankbaits in open water or around moderate cover. It’s an excellent choice for both experienced anglers looking to improve their hook-up ratio and beginners seeking a forgiving and easy-to-use crankbait rod. Those who value durability and reliability will also appreciate the rod’s robust construction.
Anglers who frequently fish in heavy cover or require a more powerful rod for other techniques might want to consider a different option. Also, anglers with limited storage space might find the one-piece design inconvenient.
A must-have accessory is a quality baitcasting reel with a smooth drag system. Consider using fluorocarbon line for its low stretch and abrasion resistance.
Conclusion on Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz.
The Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg, Cast, 8-20lb, 1 Piece, Moderate, Rod, Lure 1/4 – 1oz. is an exceptional crankbait rod that delivers on its promises. The price of $159.99 is justified by its performance, durability, and overall quality. It is a worthwhile investment for any angler serious about crankbait fishing.
I would highly recommend this rod to anyone looking to improve their hook-up ratio and enjoy a more comfortable and effective crankbait fishing experience. If you’re tired of losing fish on treble hooks, give the Phenix Glass Blue Crankbait Xg a try. You won’t be disappointed.