Scott Lavallee

I use the Megabass Destroyer One-Ten Special and I absolutely love it. I know it's above your budget but the Megabass Levante Jerkbait Special is built to the same specs (with some different materials) and is $199. I've heard great things about it as well. I pair mine with a Tatula SV TW and 12lb Tatsu and couldn't be happier with how well it all works together. Previously I was using a Mojo jb rod and it's definitely a great for only $130.

I'm be throwing anywhere from 1/2oz all the way up 8oz so I'm going with multiple rods. Two, if not three. The lures I use most often are 1.3 to 5oz. Reels are Daiwa Catalina, a Ryoga and an Abu Revo Winch.

What's everyone favorite rods for hardbody swimbaits? I'm in the market for a couple of new ones so I'm curious what everyone likes to use. Expensive or inexpensive, doesn't matter. Let me know what you throw with them too! Thanks!

The Spro Little John is a great tight action crank. The Fat John is as well if you want something a little larger.

Which St. Croix rod did you buy? You can't go wrong with any of them! I have two Mojo Bass and a Bass X and dollar for dollar can't be outdone for their respective uses imo.

I'll reiterate what I saw above about the Tatula. I own the reels that you mentioned but for a solid all around reel I'd go with a Tatula SV. Smooth as butter, and d**n near impossible to backlash assuming your spool tension and brakes are set properly. If your dead set on those two reels I'd go with the Lew's. I'd get a dedicated striper set-up down the road instead of including it in your first baitcaster purchase. Best of luck with whatever you choose!