First Impressions of Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod
The Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod promises to be a dedicated tool for serious crankbait anglers. Lew’s, a brand known for quality and innovation, has packed this rod with features designed to enhance the cranking experience. From its HM50 graphite blank to the Winn Dri-Tac handle, it’s clear this rod is built for performance and comfort.
I was searching for a rod specifically designed to handle larger, deep-diving crankbaits like the 10XD. My existing all-purpose rods were simply not cutting it when trying to effectively present and retrieve these lures. I needed something with the right power, action, and length to get the job done right.
Upon unboxing, the rod felt surprisingly lightweight given its 7’10” length. The Winn Dri-Tac handle felt great in hand, offering a comfortable and secure grip. The overall build quality appeared solid, suggesting a durable and well-constructed rod.
I considered the Shimano Curado Casting Rod and the St. Croix Mojo Bass Glass Casting Rod. I chose the Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod because of its specific design for extra-deep cranking. The other rods seemed more versatile but lacked the specialized features I needed.
I was excited to finally have a dedicated cranking rod designed for the task at hand. I couldn’t wait to hit the water and put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod on a local lake known for its deep structure and bass population. I paired it with a Lew’s BB1 Pro reel and a 14-pound fluorocarbon line, throwing a Strike King 10XD crankbait. The weather was slightly overcast with a light chop on the water.
The rod performed exceptionally well, allowing me to easily cast the large crankbait long distances. The extra-fast action provided the necessary tip sensitivity to feel the bait working while still providing enough backbone to handle the retrieve. I was impressed by the rod’s ability to maintain a consistent bend under the load of the crankbait.
Initially, I needed to adjust my casting stroke to accommodate the rod’s length, but it quickly became second nature. I didn’t experience any issues during the first use. The Winn Dri-Tac handle remained comfortable even after hours of casting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. There are no signs of wear and tear on the blank or guides. The Winn Dri-Tac handle still feels like new and cleans up easily.
I’ve fished this rod in various conditions, including hot summer days and cooler fall evenings. The rod consistently delivers the power and sensitivity needed for effective cranking. It outperforms my previous all-purpose rods significantly when using deep-diving crankbaits.
Maintenance is simple; I wipe down the rod with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a rod protectant. I expect it to last for many seasons of hard fishing.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod
Specifications
The Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod features a premium HM50 high modulus graphite blank with Carbon Nano Tube construction. This provides a balance of sensitivity and power. It is a 7-foot 10-inch, 1-piece casting rod.
The rod has an extra-fast action and medium-heavy power. This makes it ideal for crankbaits. It is rated for line weights of 8 to 17 pounds and lure weights of 1/4 to 2 ounces.
The SeaGuide X-frame line guides are durable and designed to handle heavy loads with ease. Lew’s exclusive graphite reel seat enhances balance and comfort. The patented “No Foul” hook keeper keeps hooks and lures secure.
These specifications are crucial for effectively fishing crankbaits. The length provides long casting distance and better leverage during the retrieve. The action allows the bait to run true while the power sets the hook effectively.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod excels at presenting deep-diving crankbaits. Its length and action allow for long casts and excellent lure control. The sensitivity transmits vibrations from the bait clearly, allowing the angler to feel every bump and deflection.
The rod’s strength is its ability to handle large crankbaits and provide positive hooksets at a distance. A weakness is its specialization; it’s not as versatile as an all-purpose rod.
The rod exceeds my expectations for a dedicated cranking rod. It has significantly improved my success rate when fishing with deep-diving crankbaits.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod is excellent. The HM50 graphite blank is lightweight yet strong. The Winn Dri-Tac handle provides all-day comfort and a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
The rod is designed for right-handed anglers. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the extra-long casting stroke, but it quickly becomes intuitive. The rod balances well with most casting reels, reducing fatigue.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod is built to last. The materials are high-quality, and the construction is solid. The SeaGuide X-frame guides are corrosion-resistant.
Maintenance is simple. Wiping the rod down after each use is sufficient. Occasional application of rod protectant will extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod comes with the patented “No Foul” hook keeper. This is a useful feature for securing lures during transport. There are no specific customization options available from Lew’s.
However, the rod is compatible with a wide range of casting reels and line types. Anglers can customize their setup to suit their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod
Pros
- Exceptional casting distance allows you to cover more water and reach deeper structure.
- Sensitive tip transmits lure action and strikes clearly, improving hookup ratios.
- Powerful backbone provides the necessary strength to handle large crankbaits and fight big fish.
- Winn Dri-Tac handle offers all-day comfort and a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- High-quality construction ensures durability and longevity.
Cons
- Specialized design limits its versatility for other fishing techniques.
- Extra-fast action may require some adjustment for anglers accustomed to moderate or slow actions.
Who Should Buy Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod?
The Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod is perfect for anglers who frequently fish with deep-diving crankbaits. Bass fishermen targeting deep structure will benefit greatly from its casting distance, sensitivity, and power. It’s an excellent tool for anglers looking to improve their crankbait fishing techniques.
Anglers who primarily use other fishing techniques or prefer a more versatile rod should skip this product. If you’re looking for a rod that can handle a wide range of lures and presentations, this may not be the best choice.
A must-have accessory is a quality fluorocarbon line in the 12-17 pound range. This maximizes sensitivity and reduces line visibility underwater.
Conclusion on Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod
The Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod is a specialized tool that excels at its intended purpose. It provides exceptional casting distance, sensitivity, and power for fishing deep-diving crankbaits. The Winn Dri-Tac handle adds to the overall comfort and usability of the rod.
The price of $149.95 is justified for anglers who are serious about crankbait fishing. It offers a significant performance upgrade over general-purpose rods.
I would personally recommend the Lew’s XD Cranking Series Casting Rod to any angler looking to improve their crankbait fishing game. It’s a well-built, high-performing rod that will help you catch more fish. If you’re ready to take your cranking to the next level, give this rod a try.