I have used the Sam Heaton for decades, but mine don't have the rear reel seat. I like em tho. I got an Ozark rear reel seat and it's the best feeling rod I've used. I wish I had a Sam Heaton rear reel seat to compare it to, but no more than I jig fish, I'll just use the ones I have for now. All of mine are 11'ers. I have a 12' Wally Marshall tho. I like the 11's better unless I'm in pads or areas without overhead cover.