Welcome to this full-length, in-depth review of the St. Croix Legend Tournament Bass Jerkbait Casting Rod, model LBTC68MXF. If you’re an angler who’s serious about jerkbait fishing, topwater poppers, or twitch baits, this rod deserves your attention.

In this video, I take a comprehensive look at how this 6’8” medium power, extra-fast action rod performs across various conditions. I break it down using my signature DMRVP framework:

Description, Meaning, Relevance, Value, and Purpose — all to help you determine if this rod fits your fishing needs.

Whether you’re researching jerkbait-specific rods, best rods for poppers, or lightweight rods for wrist-heavy twitch techniques, this review delivers valuable insights from real on-the-water use.

Rod Overview and Specifications

• Model: LBTC68MXF – Jerkbaits Rod

• Length: 6’8”

• Power: Medium

• Action: Extra Fast

• Weight: 3.67 oz

• Line Rating: 8–20 lb

• Lure Weight: 1/4 – 5/8 oz

• Price: $295

• Reel Seat: Fuji SK2

• Lock Nut: Machine-cut anodized aluminum

• Grip: Split-grip cork

• Guides: 9 Fuji K-Series tangle-free guides with Alconite rings

• Technique-Specific Use: Jerkbaits, soft jerkbaits, poppers, and walking baits

Rod Technologies in the Legend Tournament Series

This rod features some of St. Croix’s most advanced manufacturing technologies:

• SC4+ Carbon Fiber – Combines SC4 high-modulus carbon with SC6 in high-stress areas for a lighter, stronger rod

• IPC (Integrated Polycurve) – Eliminates transition points for smoother, stronger tapers

• ART (Advanced Reinforcing Technology) – Improves hoop strength without adding weight

• FRS (Fortified Resin System) – Increases rod strength by 33% with high-tech curing ovens

• TET (Taper Enhancement Technology) – CAD-designed taper patterns for optimized sensitivity

• IACT (Integrated Advanced Composite Technology) – Found in other Legend Tournament rods; not present in this pure-carbon model, but relevant if comparing to glass/carbon crankbait rods

The result is a rod that’s lightweight, highly sensitive, incredibly strong, and tuned for precise, technique-specific performance.

Casting Performance, Balance, and Reel Pairing

One of the key takeaways from my on-the-water testing is that rod and reel pairing matters. I initially tried a Shimano SLX150DC, but found casting distance limited. Switching to a Shimano Curado 70 MGL transformed the performance of this rod—particularly when throwing light poppers like the 1/4 oz Rico or smaller jerkbaits like the Megabass Vision 110 Jr..

If you’re looking for budget alternatives, I also tested the St. Croix “Seven” casting reel, which worked quite well. That said, a 70-size reel—especially with a lightweight spool—really unlocks this rod’s casting potential for small, lightweight twitch baits.

I also highlight the “casting balance” of the rod—how the handle length, reel seat, and rod length feel during two-handed casting. The 6’8” length is ideal for twitch techniques while maintaining enough length for casting distance. Though I initially thought a 6’10” might suit me better, I’ve grown to really enjoy the control this shorter length provides.

On-the-Water Experience and Use Cases

This rod is purpose-built for jerkbaits, and I’ve used it extensively for:

• Megabass Vision 110 and 110 Jr.

• Zoom Super Fluke soft jerkbaits

• Rico and other lightweight poppers

• Walking baits and subtle topwater twitchers

The extra-fast tip plays a crucial role. Many anglers think slower actions are ideal for treble-hooked baits, and that’s often true—for crankbaits. But for jerkbaits and twitch presentations, the action is created by the angler, and this rod’s fast tip efficiently transfers energy from wrist to line to lure. That minimizes fatigue and maximizes precision.

Even with a faster tip, the medium power backbone is soft enough to handle light-wire hooks and prevent pull-outs. I’ve landed fish under 2 pounds with ease, and the rod’s response to pressure inspires confidence when the bite turns on.

Casting and Load Test Demonstration

In the video, I demonstrate how the rod loads under pressure in a real-world setting. You’ll see the top quarter of the blank flex easily under light pressure—ideal for twitching baits—and how the rod responds when you add more load. This is important for assessing both casting characteristics and fish-fighting power.

Relevance to My Fishing Style (And Maybe Yours Too)

I fish jerkbaits heavily from December through May in Arizona, and as the water warms, I transition to poppers and walking baits in summer and fall. This rod stays rigged on my deck nearly year-round. I’ve also used it with soft jerkbaits for subtle presentations in shallow coves and around structure.

If your fishing season includes:

• Winter jerkbait bites

• Spring-to-summer topwater

• Twitch bait presentations

• Fluke-style plastics

…this rod has the versatility and precision to handle it all.

Meaning, Value, and Long-Term Utility

What makes this rod meaningful to me? It’s lightweight and reduces fatigue. The extra-fast action means I can impart sharp, precise movements with minimal effort. That keeps me fishing longer and with more control.

At $295, it fits my personal gear budget. And given that it replaces multiple rods for jerkbait, popper, and soft jerkbait use, it offers tremendous utility and value.

Add to that St. Croix’s 15-year transferable warranty, and you’ve got a rod that’s built to last, supported by a company known for service and quality. If your rod breaks, the process is straightforward: upload photos of the break and serial number, fill out a form, pay $60, and St. Croix will ship a replacement.

Made in the USA

All Legend Tournament rods are made in Park Falls, Wisconsin, and buying American-made gear is one more reason I support St. Croix.

Should You Buy the LBTC68MXF Jerkbait Rod?

If you’re looking for a dedicated jerkbait rod that’s light, fast, and versatile enough to double for poppers and twitch baits, I strongly recommend this model. It’s especially effective when paired with the right reel and ideal for anglers who spend extended time fishing reaction baits.

If your only use is topwater, you may prefer another rod in the Legend Tournament line designed specifically for that purpose—but if you’re like me and want multi-season twitch performance, this rod delivers.

Watch the Full Review for:

• Real-world usage footage

• Rod flex demonstration

• Gear pairing tips

• DMRVP performance analysis

Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe if this review helps you. Drop a question if you have one—I’m happy to provide more insight.

For more St. Croix rod reviews, visit my channel or site where I break down additional models including:

• Finesse Glass Cranker (LBTC72MM)

• Topwater/Twitch Rods

• Heavy Cover Jig Rods

• and more to come.

Thanks for watching—and see you on the water.