Opinions are like belly buttons, we all have one and they're all different, but I have never regretted the purchase of my B-N-M Pro Staff Trolling Rods. I use them for spider rigging as well as long lining both jigs and cranks. Probably going to put them to use tomorrow and try some early season long lining jigs at Logan Martin. I've never used the Southern rods but have heard nothing but good things. If you go with the B-N-M PST's, Monk's Crappie in NC has good pricing and volume discounts. It might not matter, but I prefer to have all of the same brand/model of rods whether pushing or pulling. Merry Christmas.