Rapala recently introduced a line of Shift rods for the Canadian market. These rods are manufactured to be lightweight and sensative, yet fit into a price range that most anglers can afford.
Shift rods use HM-55+ high-modulous graphite, custom split Hypalon EVA grips and Fuji Concept Guide System with Fuji SIC guides. This are all high quality components, and the overall the rod looks polished and well constructed. There is also a custom hook keeper that is put in the right place - many rods on the market put it where it can catch your line when fishing and casting.
This rod looks very slick. It has a beautiful glossy black finish, crome components and the Shift logo on an orange reel butt that makes for a real modern looking rod. The rod is slightly minimalistic, yet sleek and polished.
This rod is a "bread and butter" rod for bass fishing. I used it for dragging tubes, power shotting in deep water, skipping, carolina rigging for smallies and fishing with senkos. The rod is 6'8" and feels like a 6' rod. The rod is so light, sensitive and maneuverable for a 6'8" rod and is great for casting baits in tight spots. In my opinion, this is the best rod Rapala has ever made.
There are many rods with similar designs on the market. However, Rapala has created a custom minimalist reel seat for the Shift. It is light weight and comfortable - this definitely deserves some credit for innovation. It is well worth the price. The rod feels like many $200-$250 rods that are on the market.
Product for review provided by manufacturer.
| Manufacturer | Rapala |
| Model | Shift ST65SP68MH1 |
| Type | Spinning |
| Length | 6'8" |
| Pieces | 1 |
| Power | Medium Heavy |
| Taper | Fast |
| Line Weight | 6-14 lb |
| Lure Weight | 1/4-5/8 oz |
| Rod Weight | 4.18 oz |
| Material | HM-55+ High Modulus Graphite |
| Type of Guides | Fuji SiC |
| Reel Seat | Custom |
| Grips | Hypalon EVA |
| MSRP | $143.94 |
