I never used a cane pole in my life before finding B'n'M, and then I started using one for the novelty. Now, this rod has become my secret anti-skunk weapon. I can work a bank and legitimately fish areas which are otherwise unfishable and asking for trouble. I just pulled in my personal best rainbow trout on it, (a mere 14 inches), and the rod is still in one piece! I've been impressed with this, time and time again. Thanks B'n'M!