St. Croix Imperial 2027 Release Date: Freshwater and Salt Models

The St. Croix launch announcement targets December 2026 for the next-generation Imperial rods. Exact 27IU and 27IS product pages currently say Coming Soon. Kodiak arrival and prices are unconfirmed.

Imperial Freshwater model reference

Model	Line	Length	Pieces	Grip
27IU3794	#3	7'9"	4	Micro Full Wells
27IU4904	#4	9'	4	Micro Full Wells
27IU4864	#4	8'6"	4	Micro Full Wells
27IU5904	#5	9'	4	Micro Full Wells
27IU6904	#6	9'	4	Micro Full Wells
27IU7904	#7	9'	4	Full Wells
27IU8904	#8	9'	4	Full Wells

View Imperial Freshwater models and notifications.

Imperial Salt model reference

Model	Line	Length	Pieces	Grip
27IS8904	#8	9'	4	Full Wells
27IS9904	#9	9'	4	Full Wells
27IS10904	#10	9'	4	Full Wells
27IS11904	#11	9'	4	Full Wells
27IS12904	#12	9'	4	Full Wells

View Imperial Salt models and notifications.

Freshwater versus Salt

The seven freshwater models cover #3–#8 lines and three listed lengths. The five Salt models are all 9-foot rods, spanning #8–#12. Both ranges break down into four pieces. Freshwater grip shapes vary; Salt uses full wells throughout. Match your intended line and the exact model code before comparing retailers.

What changed from older Imperial models?

The manufacturer identifies this as a new generation, with SCIV construction and updated guides. Its older Imperial USA/Salt collection pages still show legacy models, so the new 27-prefixed product pages are the exact-model reference. Do not transfer older lengths, grips or identifiers to this lineup.

Release uncertainty and notifications

December is a manufacturer target, not a confirmed Kodiak delivery date. Choose the exact model on its product-specific notification form; no purchase or preorder is accepted here.

Primary model sources are linked in the tables. St. Croix manufacturer announcement. Reviewed October 26, 2026. Upcoming Gear.