When it comes to dialing in your gear for walleye fishing, few things matter more than the rod in your hand, especially when it comes to vertical jigging and precision bait control. With decades of rod-building expertise, St. Croix has carved out a reputation as one of the premier names in the game. And their Avid Walleye series? It’s built from the ground up with serious anglers in mind.
Whether you’re chasing big ‘eyes on windswept flats or targeting deep-structure smallmouth in Canadian Shield waters, this rod shines.
Built for the Task: Avid Walleye’s Precision Design
The Avid family has been a staple in St. Croix’s lineup for years, but the Avid Walleye series takes things a step further. These rods are technique-specific, meaning they’re engineered for exactly how and what you fish. 
Crafted in Park Falls, Wisconsin, the Avid Walleye rods use high-modulus SCIII+ carbon for a lightweight, incredibly sensitive feel without sacrificing backbone. Add in nylon reel seats, premium cork, and stainless steel guides, and you’ve got a premium rod that’s made to last season after season.
The series includes a variety of lengths and actions, but one model in particular has become a favorite for multi-species jigging.
The 7’1” Medium Power, Moderate-Fast Action: A Jigging Machine
When you’re ripping Jigging Raps or pounding bottom with heavy jigs in 25–30 feet of water, you need a rod that loads correctly and keeps fish pinned. The 7’1″ medium power, moderate-fast action Avid Walleye does just that.
This isn’t just another “walleye rod.” It’s specifically tuned for techniques like:
- Jigging Rap-style vertical baits
- Lifting and ripping soft plastics
- Hair jigs
- Snap jigging
The moderate-fast action means the rod bends slightly deeper into the blank. That’s crucial when fishing no-stretch braided line and fluorocarbon leaders. This extra flex cushions hooksets and reduces pulled hooks. The result? More fish in the boat, especially when walleyes are swiping at baits instead of inhaling them.
What to Pair It With
To get the most out of the Avid Walleye rod, pairing it with the right gear is key.
Recommended Setup:
- Reel: 2500-size spinning reel with smooth drag
- Line: 10 lb Sufix 832 braid to a 10 lb fluorocarbon leader
- Baits: Jigging Raps, VMC Moon Eye Jigs with plastics, small hair jigs, or glide baits
This setup is deadly for vertical presentations, deep flats, and finesse work when fish are scattered.
A Worthy Addition to Any Boat
There are a lot of rods out there labeled “walleye-specific,” but few hit the balance of versatility, performance, and feel like the St. Croix Avid Walleye series. Whether you’re jigging vertically, casting for smallmouth, or switching up tactics on the fly, this rod gives you the control, comfort, and confidence to fish at a higher level.
It’s not just a rod, it’s a precision tool, built for anglers who take their jigging seriously.
