Blackfish season isnt too far away. Here is what you can buy for $145.
A Fish Poison blackfish rod constructed of E Glass, foam grips, Fuji seat, 6 brace HD guides [braid friendly], mushroom tip, MEDIUM ACTION [not fast].
PROVEN year after year after year. The Most rugged rod money can buy.

but skipper I can never seem to get the Blackfish, what am I doing wrong?

Get yourself a Fish Poison blackfish rod and you can do what the sharpies do, catch lots of Blackfish! BIG ONES TOO!!!!
AMD YOU CANT BEAT THE PRICE!!!!
these rods are excellent striper rods as well.