In this video, Joe Michels from Fish Point delivers an in-depth review of the St. Croix Physyx Minnow Shaking Rods, including his first impressions out of the box, real-world testing, and practical feedback from the water.

These rods are designed for the fast-growing minnow shaking finesse technique, and Joe explores how each of the three models performs for different bait sizes, hook styles, and presentations. Whether you’re looking for a high-end finesse spinning rod or curious how these short rods compare to traditional drop shot and jerkbait setups, this is the honest review you’ve been looking for.

Covered in This Video:

• Overview of 3 Physyx Minnow Shaking Models:

  • 6’3” Medium Light, Extra Fast (1/16–3/8 oz)

  • 6’3” Medium, Extra Extra Fast (1/8–1/2 oz)

  • 6’6” Medium Light, Fast (1/8–3/8 oz)

• Key Features Discussed:

  • SC4+ carbon fiber blanks

  • Titanium frame guides with SIC inserts

  • Molded carbon Trigon handles and how they affect rod balance

  • Action and tip performance for precise bait control

• Field Testing Insights:

  • Casting and hookup feel in deep water (15–25 feet)

  • Fishing with Owner Range Roller heads and soft minnow baits

  • Effects of rod length and reel speed on landing fish

  • Why Joe recommends switching to a faster retrieve reel

  Use Case Recommendations:

  • Ideal rod for finesse minnow shaking, jerkbaits, and possibly flick shaking

  • Dual-use potential for anglers who want one rod to serve multiple finesse techniques

  • Best Physyx model if you’re fishing deep water or need more backbone for heavier soft plastics

  Real Talk About Rod Selection:

  • Joe’s honest thoughts on which models he’s likely to return

  • How St. Croix’s 30-day no-questions-asked return policy makes it easier to test and choose

  • Why you should be comfortable trying and returning rods if they don’t feel right in hand

Who Should Watch This:

• Anglers curious about St. Croix’s Physyx line, especially finesse spinning models

• Anyone using or wanting to learn about minnow shaking techniques

• Bass fishermen looking for a shorter rod with ultra-sensitive tip action

• Fishers comparing SC4+ rods with carbon handles vs. traditional split cork

• Viewers interested in using high-end finesse rods for jerkbaits, Senkos, or deepwater drop shot

Bonus:

Joe also discusses new Fish Point shirts, hats, and branding gear, which he’ll be giving away locally to support the channel and raise awareness of StCroixRodReviews.com.

More Resources:

Visit: https://StCroixRodReviews.com for more detailed reviews, comparisons, and recommendations across the entire St. Croix lineup.

Subscribe to Fish Point for more St. Croix rod reviews, on-the-water gear testing, and Arizona bass fishing insights.

Comment below with your rod + reel suggestions for finesse shaking or light spinning setups!