Had a post from a new guy, Matt, on the spare board...

[JohnR]

Personally, I do about 5% chunk fishing so I really don't have a specialized rod for that but I do fish mostly eels when the big gals are around. I like the 1089 Sabre for most of my eel fishing. 9 foot conventional, good backbone, not a whippy tip but that's my preference. Alot of people prefer something a little lighter like the 1088... (BTW - the name "Sabre" is pretty much interchangeable with "Batson" now. Same blanks, different finish, Ford -v- Mercury sort of thing...) but I do use the 1089 when I toss clams

This rod will handle weight and bait but is not in the heaver class for a big 8oz plus half a bunker. A good budget reel for this setup would be the 6500TCST Trophy Striper: 150yds 20# mono, 4 bearings, and Power Handle (paddle handle stinks for bigger fish). They can be found for under $90 and the 1088/1089 for $170-200... The St Croix 10 would put you over the top but definitely shop a custom version. Also, if you are scooting around for prices on a custom, make sure they use Fuji guides & reel seats - they are better and do make a difference...