Thaddeus

I like to use a 7 foot rod for cranking, specifically the Dobyns 705cb graphite. It is a MH moderate/fast action which isn't floppy like most moderate rods I've tried. This rod can truely take care of most treble hooked lures including rattle traps and jerkbaits. However I use a Dobyns 684cb for topwater, jerkbaits, and shallow cranks. Those are actually the only two baitcasting setups I own. I own 4 spinning setups and prefer spinning for finesse presentations-which I use 90% of the time. Hope this helps!

I am in the market for a 2000 size reel. Would like to stick with Shimano as I have a Sustain 1000 and Stradic ci4 2500. This would pair up with a Dobyns 702sf for dropshots, light shaky heads, dartsheads, and river fishing for smallies up in Minnesota. Is anyone familiar with Japan's (JDM) 2000 Shimano offerings? Are they a true 2000 body like what Daiwa offers or just 1000 size bodies with 2000 spools? I am specifically looking at the 2010 Complex Ci4 2000HGS F3, 2011 Biomaster C2000HGS, and 2012 Ultegra C2000HGS. I would most likely be purchasing through eBay to get a price around $200. What do you guys think? Maybe I should just quit being brand loyal and grab a 2000 size Daiwa Ballistic? Sucks that Shimano doesn't offer a 2000 size in the states.

I'd recommend a Dobyns 682sf paired with a Shimano Saros or Stradic 1000 reel. It is a very versatile rod and can be doubled as a vertical jigging rod for walleye if you're into that.

The ultimate rod IMO for topwater, target cranking, and jerkbaits is the Dobyns 684CB. I prefer a smaller rod for these applications. Pair it up with a Lews and you're golden.