If you wrap your own rods or are willing to have your rod custom wrapped You can pick up that rainshadow 967 for $45 @

http://www.angelfire.com/ks/bingham/batson.html

I'm not afilliated with the site. I just wanted to pass on the info to try to save an Angler a few bucks. I have yet to place an order with them so I can't speak for the integrity of the vendor. I will say that I couldn't find it cheaper else where. It mentions that wholesale pricing is also available with proof of business license.
If anyone else has info on bargain blanks please feel free to share.

Not to beat a dead horse but I would highly recommend Phenix. The phenix 908 has a medium/ Heavy tip at 9'. Perhaps the 1054 is more well suited for stripers. It's 8.5' in length and has a softer tip than the 908. It does shut off but you will definitly notice that it's generaly more parabolic than 908. If your looking for a stick with a lot of power that's stiff enough the throw the big plugs you might want to give the Phenix 965 a try. It's 8' in length and has plenty of power for pumping a big bait. The 908 also has a lot power but after casting a 9' all day you might be the one that doesn't have much power. I really don't think so though.


In saltwater there are many days we will throw jigs all day with 9-10' sticks. Many of which are glass with reels (penn 500 series or Newell 300 series) clamped on that tower over any freshwater bait caster. There are some who really enjoy a work out while they fish. These are the anglers who use Accu's and Progears on 540's or 100J's. Definitely not my first choice but hey to each his own.