Still not a fan of the long handle but I will give credit when it is due. Good casting rod, sensitive and has handled quite a few good size Smallmouths lately with ease. Fits in well with how I have been fishing these creeks. Didn't hurt that it balances perfectly with one of my old Garcia Mitchell 308 UL reels. Here's a few pics from today putting it to good use.Name: DSC02237.jpg Views: 351 Size: 155.5 KBName: DSC02239.jpg Views: 273 Size: 155.5 KBName: DSC02244.jpg Views: 343 Size: 128.7 KB