BoilerBassGuy

I like fishing 65# Powerpro in grass, real heavy cover, or very muddy water. But I am starting to find myself throwing 20# flourocarbon more often than my braid. Maybe it's just a personal preference thing, but I like flourocarbon for its near invisibility factor. If you decide to go with braid, you can always tie a 20-25# leader to the braid like others have mentioned. Just my 2 cents.

you shouldn't be disappointed. I have two lengend tournament casting rods (last years models) and love them. I've never fished with a Loomis, so I can't compare them, but I love my St. Croix's. I'll be getting 3 more soon.

I've got a buddy that uses the older Kistler Helium LTA Ex-Heavy Fast action flippin' stick. According to him, it's a beef stick and super light as all Kistlers are. (I have two) They are very sensitive rods but will cost you a little more. The Magnesium series rods are also nice but cheaper.