Welcome to my in-depth review of the St. Croix Legend Tournament Bass casting rod, model LBTC72MM – the Finesse Glass Cranker. This 7’2” medium power, moderate action casting rod is one of the most versatile and dependable rods I’ve used for fishing with small crankbaits, finesse topwater poppers, and other treble-hooked reaction baits. Whether you’re targeting largemouth in shallow water or running finesse squarebills through rocky transitions, this rod delivers performance that stands out in real-world fishing conditions.

What sets the LBTC72MM apart is its hybrid construction—a combination of SC4+ high-modulus carbon fiber and linear S-glass—designed to provide the perfect balance of power, flexibility, sensitivity, and forgiveness. As an angler who’s tested this rod extensively across Arizona’s fall and winter seasons, I can confidently say this is my go-to rod for small reaction baits.

Key Features and Rod Specifications

• Model: LBTC72MM – Legend Tournament Bass Finesse Glass Cranker

• Length: 7’2”

• Power: Medium

• Action: Moderate

• Rod Weight: 4.02 oz

• Line Rating: 8–14 lb

• Lure Weight: 1/4 to 3/4 oz

• Price: $315

• Build: SC4+ Hybrid Carbon and S-Glass

• Rod Type: Casting

• Primary Techniques: Finesse crankbaits, squarebills, topwater poppers, reaction baits

Applications: Crankbaits, Poppers, and Treble-Hooked Lures

This rod is purpose-built for throwing smaller crankbaits, such as the OSP Blitz MR, OSP squarebills, and classics like the Lucky Craft RC. It also excels with lightweight topwaters like the 1/4 oz Rico popper. The moderate action and soft taper make it ideal for fine-wire treble hooks, minimizing pulled hooks and increasing hookup retention.

I’ve caught dozens of fish on this rod, including barely hooked bass that stayed buttoned up because of the rod’s forgiving bend. The performance is consistent across conditions—especially in colder months where bite detection and controlled hooksets are key.

Performance on the Water

Paired with a Shimano SLX DC baitcasting reel, this rod casts light baits effortlessly and accurately. Long casts, smooth retrieves, and confidence on the hookset are where it shines. I plan to upgrade to a Shimano Metanium DC 70 or wait for the Curado 70 DC, both ideal fits for this rod’s purpose.

One thing I’ve learned is that when fish are swiping or lightly eating the bait, the sensitivity of a full carbon rod can be missed. But once hooked, the blended glass-carbon action of the LBTC72MM dramatically improves landing percentage. I’ve lost very few fish using this rod, and that’s what makes it a critical tool in my lineup.

Rod Technology Overview

The LBTC72MM leverages some of St. Croix’s most advanced rod technologies:

• SC4+ Hybrid Carbon – Blends high-modulus SC4 carbon with SC6 super high-modulus fibers for a lighter, stronger, and more balanced rod.

• Linear S-Glass Integration – Reinforced glass fibers provide the give needed to control fish on treble hooks.

• IPC (Integrated Polycurve) – Smooth taper transitions enhance durability, power, and load distribution.

• ART (Advanced Reinforcing Technology) – Adds hoop strength without increasing rod weight.

• FRS (Fortified Resin System) – Proprietary resin curing process for 33% more strength.

• TET (Taper Enhancement Technology) – Precisely cut blank curves for enhanced action and sensitivity.

• IACT (Integrated Advanced Composite Technology) – Combines graphite and glass fibers for superior casting accuracy and moderate action ideal for moving baits.

Together, these technologies result in a rod that is lighter, more accurate, more durable, and ideal for small treble-hooked bait presentations.

DMRVP Review Framework: Description, Meaning, Relevance, Value, Purpose

This review follows the DMRVP format to help you decide if this rod fits your fishing style:

• Description: Full breakdown of specs, materials, actions, and use cases

• Meaning: Helps address key concerns like hook retention with small treble hooks

• Relevance: Ideal for Arizona conditions and finesse crankbait techniques

• Value: At $315, it sits in the mid-to-premium price range, offering top-tier performance without a luxury-tier price tag

• Purpose: Engineered to fish small crankbaits and topwaters with exceptional control, accuracy, and forgiveness

Made in the USA and Backed by Warranty

St. Croix manufactures the Legend Tournament series in Park Falls, Wisconsin. The 15-year transferable warrantyincludes a simple $60 replacement process. You submit photos of the damage and model number, fill out a warranty form, and St. Croix ships a replacement—no questions asked. This level of support reflects the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Who Should Fish This Rod?

If you’re an angler who:

• Regularly fishes small crankbaits and finesse treble-hooked baits

• Likes to throw popper-style topwaters on lighter line

• Prefers a rod that keeps fish pinned even on marginal hookups

• Needs long, smooth casts with 1/4 to 1/2 oz lures

• Wants a rod with a soft tip and controlled backbone

• Values American-made quality and innovation

Then the St. Croix LBTC72MM Finesse Glass Cranker is an ideal addition to your lineup. It’s a specialized tool that solves a real problem—keeping fish hooked—and it does it with finesse, comfort, and unmatched reliability.

Watch the full video to see this rod in action with real fish catches, casting demonstrations, and a deep dive into its design and construction. If you’re serious about cranking with precision and confidence, this rod belongs on your deck.

Please consider subscribing to Fish Point with Joe Michels for more rod reviews, gear breakdowns, and tournament fishing insights. If you have questions or your own experience with the LBTC72MM, leave a comment—I’d love to hear from you.