I have been through it all, from starting with what I had, then 10 ft extendable poles I put plastic eyes on and taped on reels, then 13 ft fiberglass extendable poles to 12 ft PSTs then got a set of Pinacals for whomever I might take with me and now 14 ft SouthernCrappie rods. Caught fish on all of them. I have caught just as many fish on the Pinacals as any of them but I do really like the SouthernCrappie poles. I always suggest starting with any poles you already have especially if your fishing over 10-12 ft deep on a regular basis. Caught a lot of fish while fishing an 8 a 9 2/10's and 11 ft jigging poles. Use what you have to find out if it's your cup of Tea. If not your really not out much. One suggestion I have, and understand me I know how finances affect all this but get a good set of rod holders to start. Hi-Tec or Spider Locks and you won't be sorry. Wish I had all the money and time back that I spent building and trying to improve on rod holders.