Rowsdower

I use them most of the time for specks and do pretty well with them. Sometimes the little underspin makes a difference, sometimes it doesn't lol.

I really enjoy panfishing, it's relaxing and action packed at the same time. I used to use the Okuma Celios, SST's the Fenwick Eagle all good low cost ultralights then i broke down and picked up 2 St Croix Panfish series rods and for the price i think they are the best UL rods (non JDM), you can get. The 6'9" UL is the perfect rod for panfishing. I run mine with 1000 Stradics.

You will be fine as long as you don't go dunking your gear. A simple light rinse with fresh water afterwards (don't go pressure washing them! ) will suffice. I fish for redfish and specks more than anything and never have issues with my gear and the salt

Always use the price scanner at Academy! I've found some crazy deals doing that. In fact i just today picked up a Dobyns Sierra 683C for 87 bucks!