Hello. I'm from Wisconsin where they make St. Croix rods. I don't know if they are in tackle shops in your area, but in the Midwest they are very popular. Their new Avid Salmon & Steelhead rods are awsome I have the 13' float rod for my center pin, and the 9'6" bait caster for drift fishing. I have never had a problem with these rods. Also it is hard to beat the price. Hope this helps. :-)