Loomis has made great rods and crap rods. So has every manufacturer out there.

Of all their rods I've owned, I flat out HATED the 1143c. Biggest POS out there. Too long, improperly weighted and no power in the butt.

Of all their rods I've owned and still use for most of how I fish, nothing beats the IMX 1025c. If it's not made any more (might not be), I'll cry when it breaks, as their is no substitute for this rod.

Nothing is going to top the IMX 1141s for boondogging as well as the IMX 1082s for side drifting, IMO.

The other rod I mostly use is a SAGE 290. Never did like the 296, so I got rid of it.

I'm not on any Loomis program (or Sage), but would give their rods a shot - only thing is that I'm perfectly happy with what I have, so I don't need to go out and get any more rods.

Until you hold one, see how it's made, and try one for yourself, I honestly don't understand the Loomis bashing.

I will be the first to say that while I love my IMX's, they do look like they were made by children.....and not very adept children at that. I would only HOPE the new IMX's have improved on the quality of their craftsmanship. Holding all judgements until I get to see one....which won't be long as I'm sure I'll be out fishing with CanyonMan or Bob one of these days.