zell_pop1

Go to Indianabass.com and check out money tournaments or join a club in your area.

3/16ths shallow shad rap on an Ardent C400 and M action rod.

Not saying this is not a great reel, but after their review of the Ardent reel I would not put much stock in what TT says.

I use a 5'6" M Premier spinning rod for skipping docks out of the back of the boat.

I have last years model-decent reel but the wider heavier spool means it is not a distance caster like my Asaro. If you want a crankin gear ratio for target casting square bills or spinnerbaits then it is ok.

Try using a moderate action rod, sounds like you are using a soft plastics rod.

I use the same 7' MH Fritts rod, rips thru grass and pads pretty well.