Tywithay

Fuego. Not really much of a comparison, in my opinion. That Fuego compares favorably to pretty much any reel under $150 and some above that.

A St Croix medium is not stout, but it's usually a little more powerful than a typical medium. I think you could throw small popper or spooks, small jerkbaits, 1/4oz spinnerbaits, 1/4oz jigs, weightless plastics, etc. I don't know how well it will set the hook on weightless plastics though. I prefer a longer, slightly stiffer rod, because you need to pick up some line and have enough backbone to get the hook to pierce the plastic; I am sure it would be sufficient, especially with light wire hooks. It's a pretty versatile little rod, given the length.

http://shimano.fishing-store.us/shimano-css56ulb-clarus-ultra-light-spinning-rod.html?CAWELAID=500003090000255962&CAGPSPN=pla&catargetid=500003090000307487&cadevice=m
This rod is a step above the Convergence, and much better, in my opinion. I think it's a pretty good step above the Triumph too. It has been discontinued for a new model, so you can save some money off full price. It's usually about $109, if I remember right. I have the same rod and love it.

WIth braid of a similar diameter, you won't lose much distance, if any.  Whooped indeed means snapped up. I like to use light line and I've had a couple really big fish completely spool me, but it's part of the game.

I think it's a Dicks exclusive spinning and baitcaster.