SausageFingers

My most productive last year was a Reaction Innovations Kinky Beaver. I pinch the middle two appendages off. The Rage line also produced for me.

I actually like to throw them on the back of a swim jig. They're pretty versatile.

I have three - 6'-6" MH, 7'-0" M, and 7'-0" M (Winch). Easily my favorite rods.

Mann's Waker Elite. Love that thing.

Nice review! Hybrid is a staple on all of my casting outfits.

I have four of them. My first experience with the SX was a little rough. Took a few runs to get it dialed in. I find them to be excellent performers now that they're set up correctly. I have an STX as well. Its a very nice reel but I prefer the SX. For some reason, I'm not a fan of the centrifugal braking systems.

The DT series

I'm a big fan of the XCalibur line, specifically the XCS 200's. They're well built and aren't overly expensive.

Good baits for the money. Color selection is pretty wide also.

Not sure how long you've had the Smoke but it's probably worth sending it in to DVT to take a look at (unless you're proficient in reel maintenance). Friend of mine bought one and had similiar issues. Turned out it was bone dry on the inside, no oil, grease, hot sauce, etc. It was tuned up by our local repair shop. It operated much better after proper maintenance. That said, it was exchanged a week later for a Lew's. Just something about it that he didn't like.

I grabbed an SX, 6.4:1 with a left-hand retrieve.

Vengeance is an alright rod, especially for $50. I bought one when Abu first released the V series. I have no complaints with it. It doesn't compare to the Vendetta or Veritas but it is a solid rod, especially at that price point.

Pro Qualifier gets my vote. Watch the sales though. They frequently drop the price to $79.99. BassPro is pretty good about crediting you if they go on sale right after you purchase it at full, usually in the form of a gift card. Just contact customer service if this happens to you.

A little electrical tape over the feet of the reel usually fixes this problem.

Excellent reel. The Speed Spool is underpriced at $99 for the performace it delivers.