Our Pro-Staff member, Derek, has been rigorously testing a couple of Black Hole USA Striped Bass Special Surf & Surf II Rods over the past years. Here’s what he has to say about his experience.

Black Hole Striped Bass Special (9’6" 3/4-4oz. - Moderate): "I find this rod perfect for throwing smaller profile baits and can easily land a 20+ lb. fish. It’s particularly useful this time of year when the fish become more finicky and focus on the smaller bait fish that start to invade our waters."

Striped Bass Special (10’6" 1-6oz. - Moderate Fast): "This versatile rod can handle a range of weights. I tested it with a 1oz. Diamond jig, 2.5 oz. Glides, and 3.5oz. Pencils. The rod handled them all beautifully and with ease."

10' Surf II Heavy (10’ 3-10oz. - Heavy): "This is my personal favorite rod for jigging the Canal. I fished with this rod for three seasons now, with no issues. Even the guides have never needed replacing. If you fish the canal, you know your gear takes a beating down there, especially rods. But the Cape Cod Special stands up to the challenge."

Lures Used: All fish were caught using East End Lure Co’s Green Mak, Wacky Mak, and Mystic Glide baits.

Photo above: Derek with his Black Hole USA 10' Surf II Heavy Rod at the Cape Cod Canal. 

Feel free to ask any rod related questions to our teammates!