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I will tell you the same thing I tell everyone...First, you will need to determine whether you want to see the bite (springbobber, noodle rod, ect.) or feel the bite (graphite, carbon solids, composites). It's not always an easy choice, it is highly dependent on personal preference and angling style. You may like it both ways for different tactics. Don't buy combos, the reels are almost always of the lowest quality. Don't look at brand names or price tags when you pick the rod, the perfect rod seldom seems to be the most expensive.Don't buy a rod unless you can hold it in your hands. Buying a rod online is kin to buying shoes online, you will almost never get what you thought you were. Make the selection with your own two eyes and hands.Avoid the hype, none of them are magic wands. Really, there is allot of stupid hype with rods....
Have been using the Jason Mitchell Meatsticks last couple of years.Hard to beat for the money.Never catch fish by feel.Always watching rod tip and line.Prefer the 20 inch, less dwell time.Newer reels on the combos are just fine.