First Impressions of Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill is designed for anglers targeting bass with crankbaits, specifically squarebills. It’s part of a series designed in collaboration with professional angler Jordan Lee, known for his expertise in power fishing techniques. The rod boasts a moderate-fast action, a medium power rating, and a comfortable Winn Grip handle, all pointing towards a rod built for serious fishing.
As a seasoned angler, I’ve long struggled to find the perfect rod for fishing squarebill crankbaits. Too many rods either lack the necessary sensitivity to detect subtle strikes or don’t have enough give to prevent ripping the hooks out during the fight. I was searching for a rod that could combine sensitivity, power, and a comfortable grip for all-day use; this Abu Garcia rod seemed to tick all those boxes on paper.
Upon unboxing, the rod felt surprisingly lightweight, a testament to the 30-ton graphite construction. The Winn Grip handle was immediately noticeable, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The build quality seemed excellent, with clean wraps and a smoothly finished blank, exceeding my expectations for a rod in this price range.
Compared to my other crankbait rods, like my older St. Croix Premier Glass and a Dobyns Fury 705CB, the Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting Rod felt significantly lighter and more balanced. I chose this rod over others because of the specific action and power tailored to squarebill fishing, something that isn’t always easy to find. My initial impression was one of genuine excitement; this rod seemed promising.
Real-World Testing: Putting Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting Rod to a local lake known for its heavy cover and aggressive bass population. The rod was paired with an Abu Garcia Revo X casting reel spooled with 12-pound fluorocarbon. Fishing around submerged timber and weed beds, I immediately noticed the rod’s sensitivity.
Even with the vibration of the squarebill, I could feel every bump and tick as the lure deflected off cover. The moderate-fast action allowed the bass to inhale the lure, and the medium power provided plenty of backbone to pull them out of the thick stuff. After several hours of casting, the Winn Grip handle remained comfortable and slip-resistant, even with sweaty hands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting Rod has become one of my go-to choices for squarebill fishing. It has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear and tear on the guides or the blank. The Winn Grip handle still feels as good as new, with no noticeable degradation.
Maintaining the rod is simple; I typically wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. Compared to my previous crankbait rods, this one offers superior sensitivity and comfort. It has definitely outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill
Specifications
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill features a 7-foot length, providing excellent casting distance and leverage. It has a moderate-fast action, which is crucial for crankbait fishing, allowing the fish to take the bait before setting the hook. The medium power rating offers a good balance of sensitivity and backbone for fighting fish in various conditions.
The rod is a one-piece design, maximizing sensitivity and strength. It is designed for line weights of 8-17 lbs. and lure weights of 1/4 – 5/8 oz., making it ideal for most squarebill crankbaits. Constructed from 30-ton graphite, the rod is both lightweight and sensitive.
The handle is made of Winn Grip material, offering exceptional comfort and grip, even in wet conditions. It also features stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts, which are durable and reduce friction for smoother casting. The custom Abu reel seat is ergonomically designed for enhanced comfort and sensitivity.
These specifications contribute directly to the rod’s overall performance and user experience. The moderate-fast action and medium power are perfectly suited for squarebill fishing, minimizing the risk of pulling the hooks out during the fight. The lightweight graphite construction and Winn Grip handle make it comfortable to fish with all day long.
Performance & Functionality
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting Rod performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It casts squarebill crankbaits with ease and accuracy. The sensitivity is outstanding, allowing anglers to feel even the most subtle strikes.
Its moderate-fast action is forgiving, preventing hook pulls, while the medium power provides ample backbone for fighting fish in heavy cover. One potential area for improvement is the hook keeper placement.
Overall, the rod meets and exceeds expectations for a crankbait rod in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The rod’s design is well-thought-out, with a focus on both performance and comfort. The 30-ton graphite blank is lightweight and balanced. The Winn Grip handle is incredibly comfortable to hold.
The custom Abu reel seat is also well-designed and adds to the rod’s overall ergonomics. There is virtually no learning curve; the rod feels intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting Rod is built to last. The stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts are durable and resistant to corrosion. The 30-ton graphite blank is also surprisingly tough.
Maintaining the rod is simple; cleaning with a damp cloth after each use is typically sufficient. The Winn Grip handle is also relatively easy to keep clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The rod comes with a rubber rod butt for added protection and a convenient rod hook keeper. While there aren’t many customization options for the rod itself, anglers can easily pair it with different reels and lines to suit their individual preferences. The rod is compatible with most standard casting reels and line types.
Pros and Cons of Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill
Pros
- The Winn Grip handle provides exceptional comfort and grip, even in wet conditions.
- The 30-ton graphite construction offers a lightweight and sensitive feel.
- The moderate-fast action is perfectly suited for squarebill crankbait fishing.
- The price point makes it an excellent value for the performance it delivers.
- The stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts enhance casting distance and durability.
Cons
- The hook keeper placement could be improved for easier access.
- Some anglers may prefer a two-piece rod for easier transport and storage.
Who Should Buy Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill?
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod is perfect for anglers who primarily target bass with squarebill crankbaits. It’s also great for those who appreciate a lightweight and sensitive rod with a comfortable grip. It is well-suited for both beginner and experienced anglers.
Anglers who prefer other crankbait styles or need a rod for heavier lures should skip this product. A higher power rod may be better. There aren’t any must-have accessories, however, matching it with an Abu Garcia Revo reel and quality fluorocarbon line would be a great start.
Conclusion on Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill
The Abu Garcia Jordan Lee Winch Casting 30 Ton Graphite Rod, 5Wt, Medium, Winn Grip Handle Squarebill is an exceptional rod for squarebill crankbait fishing. It offers a great balance of sensitivity, power, and comfort at an affordable price. The rod’s performance, combined with its durable construction and ergonomic design, makes it a worthwhile investment for any serious bass angler.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and the thought that went into the design. I would definitely recommend it. Go get yours today and start landing some bass!