Shimano Exage BX STC Mini Tele Spinning 240 Medium 8 Feet, Travel Spinning Fishing Rod, TEXBXMTS24M

I wasn't sure what to expect upon ordering this rod, honestly. Collapsible rods generally get weak towards the tip, where the diameter is tiny, yet it still needs to be hollow to allow for the next segment to slide through. This one, however... it seems very, very well built. I've always loved shimano rods, and this one is my second favorite, right after my Crucial drop-shot rig. (But hauling a 7'7" one piece rod isn't always an option.)The price IS significant, but I wanted something that I could both pack and take anywhere, and something that would hold up to sizable fish and a lot of use.The portability is great. The handle itself actually comes apart into two sections, and the rest of the rod collapses into an unbelievably small piece. All is contained within a carrying case that has a rigid tube part to protect the rod. There's room enough for a reel, additional spool, and even a small bag of lures, hooks, clippers, etc. It's small and compact enough to throw in my pack and take on the motorcycle, slip into my carry-on luggage, or keep tucked away in a corner of my car for one of those blank moments you get next to a lake or stream, wishing you had a fishing rod.I paired it with an Exage reel, and while not the lightest pairing that I own, it's definitely not the heaviest. But I can say, it feels the most solid in the handle area of any freshwater spinning rod I've owned, and that's saying something. The action will never match a similarly priced (heck, even half or less) one-piece rod, but the compromise is worth it for the convenience.In all, if you're on the fence and you can afford it, DO IT! I only wish these were more readily available in the states. As I understand it, these are a European market item, and must be imported for sale. I'm sure they would be much more affordable if Shimano offered them to US distributors. If that were the case, I'd buy another.

Papa was very happy with this - easy to pack into a stream on a hike. Better than expected and excellent value.

it broke, the first time I used it

Very well built, nice action, very portable - worth the extra cost.

Really very nice rod, good action, can feel the fish nibbling. I recommend it.

Item received in good condition. Can't wait to have the first catch.