Started w/12 ft rods, quickly went to 14'. Your choice of make and model is not important, imo. Somethin with a good spine and gentle tip. Ego telescoping net is the berries. Variable speed TM will let you get your speed EXACTLY where you need it ..... .3 mph or less, and it is a lot easier on your battery. Your jig/minner set up is very important too. I personally use a jig tipped with minner and then a gnat about 14-18 inches above that with a free swimming minner. The critical thing to remember is when you think you're goin too slow....slow down. Now, re-read that last sentence. It's the most important thing anybody has said about trollin/spider riggin to you yet, IMHO. Took me awhile to get into it, because I like to feel the thump, but it is really fun once you get the hang of it...trust me!