I use telescopic cane poles a lot when the gills and crappie are nesting. I like to use a 13' rod, anything more is a chore to work with, and anything shorter puts me to close to the fish. I only use one at a time dipping micro jigs, or a float and bait. I hardly ever see anybody use them anymore, but they are a blast to fish with. I always get looks and questions when I use them. I don't really know if one is better than the other but I like the B n M rods.