St. Croix Legend Tournament Bass – Drop Shot Finesse Rod Review

This in-depth review covers the St. Croix Legend Tournament Bass Spinning Rod – Drop Shot Finesse model (LBTS610MLXF). Designed for finesse fishing applications, this rod is 6’10” in length, features medium-light powerand an extra-fast action, and weighs only 3.56 ounces. Ideal for drop shot techniques, light jerkbaits, and precision presentations in deep, clear-water conditions, this model balances advanced sensitivity with surprising versatility.

Constructed with SCIV+ hybrid carbon fiber, the rod integrates IPC (Integrated Poly Curve) technology for enhanced strength and action precision, and includes ART (Advanced Reinforcing Technology) and FRS (Fortified Resin System) for exceptional durability. It features 9 Fuji K-Series tangle-free guides with Alconite rings, a Fuji VSS reel seat, and a split grip handle for weight reduction and ergonomic control.

The rod’s balance and action were tested with a matching St. Croix spinning reel, revealing its capability to deliver fast tip sensitivity and deep loading power under pressure—key for detecting light bites and preventing line breakage with 6–8 lb test lines.

In practical use, this rod shines when drop shotting, fishing Ned rigs, or presenting lightweight jerkbaits in clear, structure-laden reservoirs such as those found in the western U.S., Great Lakes, and Ozark regions. The extra-fast tipprovides unmatched feedback, making it easy to detect subtle bites (“wet sock” feeling) while still having the backbone to drive light wire hooks without overloading light line.

This rod also demonstrates value through multi-technique adaptability. It performs well with small jerkbaits and topwaters, especially for anglers who need to consolidate gear—ideal for co-anglers or those seeking a go-to finesse rod. The LBTS610MLXF is a true dual-purpose performer in finesse and reaction bait scenarios.

Priced at $290 MSRP, the rod comes with a 15-year transferable warranty, and St. Croix’s U.S.-based customer service offers a simple replacement process for damaged rods.

Key Features:

• Model: LBTS610MLXF – Drop Shot Finesse

• Length: 6’10”

• Power: Medium-Light

• Action: Extra-Fast

• Line Weight: 6–20 lb

• Lure Weight: 1/16–3/8 oz

• Components: Fuji K-Series guides, Fuji VSS seat, SCIV+ carbon blank

• Technologies: IPC, ART, FRS, TET, IACT

• Made in the USA (Park Falls, Wisconsin)

• Warranty: 15 years with $60 replacement fee

Why It Matters:

This rod is meaningful to finesse anglers who demand responsiveness, light weight, and high build quality. It’s especially relevant for western and northern U.S. lakes that require sensitivity and light line performance. For anglers who value American craftsmanship, precision engineering, and technique-specific designs, the Legend Tournament Drop Shot Finesse rod represents a top-tier investment.

Whether you’re drop shotting deep structure, working a suspending jerkbait, or making long casts with light topwaters, this rod offers the versatility, sensitivity, and reliability required for advanced bass fishing tactics.