I have personally used the offshore Tri-Flex version Bl 6620 and 7020C for albacore and have had no problems, however I think they are a little light at times. I used them primarily for pitching jigs, and I think they would work ok as a live bait rod. I think our BL 7040 LB, or 7050LB is a better choice if you are using it strictly as a Live Bait rod, as they are designed for this specific method. They only come with the foam off-shore handle however.

Ryan