Hey from one novice to another. I have recently bought some of those little bells that you see on people's clothes and hats. Some are silver and some are gold. I tied one to each tip of my pole and fished it last time out. Those things really help on hearing bites. If you happen to do the same thing, just make sure to tie it loose and not tight. You can find them at Walmarts in the craft section. I also have the 12' rods. They seem to work fine. I don't catch the limit, but enough for supper.