This is a reel no brainer for me. Once you fish the 9'6 lamiglas certified pro XJS96 you will never change. (you can quote me on that) It is bendy enough to fling a light spinner or jig setup, has a classic full rod length bend that makes use of the full 9'6" length for those days you just happen to hook a massive chinook or feisty chum. In short, it is a great, versatile rod at a very reasonable price.

For reels, I prefer Shimano Stradic 4000's spooled with maxima ultragreen or Izorline 12 lb.

I witnessed a strange one the other day. I rarely fish Blue Foxes, although I know many consider them Gods' gift, but I witnessed 2 very nice steelies caught on 2 successive casts with #4 silver blade hot pink spinners. I shook my head in amazement. A 2 cast limit makes one take note...