The rod's extra-fast tip transitions quickly to a nice backbone.

Sensitivity: The BXS610MLXF is built on a blank rolled with medium modulus graphite so to expect a lot in terms of sensitivity in this stick would be asking too much. Thanks to its fast taper and minimalist build, however, what we get out of it is surprisingly respectable. I'd actually rate it at just slightly above average for rods at a similar price point.

Fig 1 : The chart above illustrates the deflection characteristics of our St. Croix BassX BXS610MLXF against our baseline finesse spinning rods.

Power: Referring to the RoD Deflection Chart above, we can see the BXS610MLXF falls pretty closely in line with our baseline WTF fishing rods. It has a tip, similar to the zero power DSR820S GLX but then once more pressure is applied, its backbone steps up in power closer to the 2-power SMR822S-SP GLX.

Out on the water, it's very easy to feel the power in this stick when fighting a feisty largemouth. The overall impression of this rod is definitely more of a "medium" powered stick than light.

It is built with guides featuring hard, aluminum oxideinserts and black, metal frames.

Design & Ergonomics: True to St. Croix's aesthetic, the BXS619MLXF is a very understated, conservatively designed rod with no bright wraps or outlandish colors. The Bass-X logo does stand out, but the grey and blue colors keep it toned down. It's not a rod that will attract much attention so if that is your preference, these sticks will suit your style easily.

This is the flashiest part of the rod.

Ergonomically, the rod is very light in hand, but with that slight weight in the tip mentioned earlier. This tip-heaviness is easily forgiven in spinning gear because the weight of the reels are so much more than casting reels. Additionally, hand placement on a spinning rod combo is typically above the reel so combos will immediately balance better regardless.

It features a traditional, closed loop hook keeper.

Price & Applications: St. Croix's BassX BXS610MLXF is a really good candidate in a Search for One spinning rod with a lean towards finesse techniques. Its backbone makes it suitable for a wider range of baits than a typical finesse rod, yet its tip ensures you can still cast the light stuff - and feel it - when you need. Priced at $100, it's difficult to find any real downside to owning this stick if you're in the market for something with its versatility.

Looking for a budget friendly, multi-purpose spinning rod? St. Croix's BassX BXS610MLXF needs to be on your short list.

Conclusion: When first introduced, we thought St. Croix's Mojo series of sticks were a good value but these new Bass X series of sticks are an even better deal in a more conservative package.

My favorite feature of these sticks is that raw, sanded but unfinished blank, but its versatility is what really makes this stick shine.

That soft tip combined with the good backbone make it useful in a variety of different applications that when coupled with its price make it an excellent value for those on a tight budget. That's why the BXS610MLXF wins our Best Value Award!

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