i recommened the gloomis hs1021 for plugs. it is 8-1/2 feet and has a fast action which ables you to even see the movement of the very small hotshots. it has plenty of backbone to handle 15 kwickfish, and still light enough to run wigglewarts. i have used the hs9000 and it is a good smaller fish type rod, but it seems the hs1021 can fish both small and big. most guides i know use the hs9000 for smaller plugs and go to a bigger rod for k15 type plugs. myself i can only afford one set of two rods and i am very happy with my selection.