AusDen

I also forgot to mention that I fish a senko almost all the time.

You all have good points. I guess the main thing is that since they're gifts I'm having to choose one so that they get their money back. I actually only have 4 rods now, but I do know people have plenty of rods. I'll see if I can get to where I can keep both.

My sincerest apologies on not getting around to my question. I guess I spent too much time into talking about why it's a tough question and no time actually asking it. My question is: Which rod should I keep? The Black Max says it's a 6'" Medium. 1/4-5/8 oz. Lure. 8-15 lb line. The Cabela's doesn't say it's length (it's shorter) but the lure weight is exactly the same and the line weight is at 8-17 lb line. One reason I lean toward the Black Max is because it's longer which should get me a little more distance. I fish from the bank.

New user here. I got two rods and reel combos as gifts. Both have the same reel, a Abu Garcia Black Max, my first baitcaster. One rod has the Black Max Next Generation (6.5 ft) and the other has a Cabela's Pro Guide IM6 (6 ft). I know this is likely a tough question because it's probably rare that someone has used the same reel with both types of rods and it comes down to how I fish. I don't exactly have a preference in rods. I think I'm used to medium or medium light rods. All I fish are ponds and don't really pitch/flip.