I've been using a Dobyns Sierra 693 for years as a general purpose light tackle/finesse rod. Thrown everything from 1/16oz ned rigs, 1/8 oz shaky heads, weightless wacky/t-rig senkos, up to 3/16 oz t-rigged worms, drop shots and underspins without an issue. Came in to a bit of money and want to upgrade it to something a little higher quality, more sensitive and lighter, so I'm looking for suggestions! Ideally want to stay spinning as opposed to casting.

 

What do you think? I've heard great things about the Shimano Expride B line, but I'm not sure which model would work best. But also open to other suggestions!

Do you care about where the grip is located? Most spinning rods have a foregrip but the Sierra series (like all Dobyns rods) has the grip behind the reel (which I prefer). In my case since I prefer that style of a grip (and for many other reasons) I really like the Poison Adrena. On the other hand if you are ok with or would prefer a foregrip there's a ton of options out there. What about a warranty? The Dobyns rods have a lifetime warranty that's pretty much no questions asked but some of the other ones out there offer a 'lifetime' warranty that would involve you sending them the rod and paying for the shipping and then having them inspect it and decide if they feel like they should replace it...I like St Croix and Dobyns for that reason but one good thing about the Shimano rods (aside from the quality itself which is also very good) is they did improve their warranty program recently...

 

I have thrown that rod and it reminded me a bit of a St Croix rod...although I do think the Victory line and anything above it is a little better than the Sierra in terms of sensitivity (although I did feel like the balance on the Sierra was a bit better if that matters at all). Their warranty is also good and lasts for 15 years so while it's not 'lifetime' I would probably want a new rod after that amount of time anyway.

 

Cashion also has a good warranty program similar to Dobyns and might be worth looking into. But for me if you want a grip style like the one on the Sierra but something a little more sensitive I'd say look at the Adrenas....they are actually a LOT more sensitive and have pretty much sold me on carbon fiber handles vs cork for bottom contact applications.

Have you looked at the Expride spinning rod ratings on TW?  I just did.  Was surprised to see the 6' 10" M-EF and ML-EF have the same line and lure ratings.  Wonder if it is a mistake.  Checked rod ratings on another site.  Were the same.  If you don't mind 7', then the 7' LF carries a lighter lure rating.  Note: I have zero experience with Expride rods.  Just looking at the specks for you.