After years and years of trying this or that rod and reel combo, I finally hit on a rod that I can feel when something picks up the bait. Any rod will do when the fish are smashing the bait but when things slow down, you need a rod with an exposed blank like this one. Your hand is on the blank when you hold the base of the reel. You can feel the slightest bump and easily differentiate between weeds, structure or a fish. Fast action telegraphs the bump to your hand and helps. Short 6' - 6" makes it usable for Shad and Trout where overhanging trees can foul your line. Finally - TFO stands behind their guarantee - I closed my pick ups automatic electric window on the tip - they fixed it for free. Buy it - you won't be disappointed.