I used both rods last year and liked both of them. I did break one G Loomis rod on a fish, but that was the lighter action one and the fish didn't want to cooperate.

That being said, after using both G Loomis and St. Croix blanks last year I will probably buy all St. Croix rods from Thorne Brothers this year. I liked the Loomis rods but they wear you out compared to the St. Croix. They have a heavier feel to them. Almost sluggish. I had an eight foot medium heavy fast St. Croix that is just about perfect for everything. Maybe a hair on the light side for Bulldawgs but I made it work.

The thing to keep in mind is that what I like you might not like. I used both rods you're looking at and you wont be disappointed with either.