'06 gear reviews anyone?

[basswipe]

I bought few items over the last season.

Batson 1088 wrapped by MikeCC after winning a raffle.Fantastic rod paired with my trusty 'ol Spheros 8000.Flawless all season.Though the reel isn't new its been around so long its amazing how well its held up.

Cabelas Saltstriker metal SSM60.Started out nice but over time lost its "newness".Some line twist problems.OK drag.Fairly smooth retrieve.A Phluegar Medalist dressed in Cabelas garb.An OK reel for its price(list$69)that'll more than likely end up in this Spring's yardsale.

Also from Cabelas one of their earlier versions of the Saltstiker,an SS30 I put on my old 6'6" UglyStik Lite.Excellent reel.Great with the early season schoolies and holdovers.

Quantum Boca 70pts purchased this Fall which ended up on my 10' Quarrow.Those two together were sending tins,Salty's Sherriff and Mac's Canal pencils to the freakin moon.The reel is heavy but balances well on the rod.Was able to catch several VERY LARGE alligator blues(two at 18+ #s).Smoothest drag I've ever felt.Totally solid reel.Very smooth retrieve.Took several dunkings without a problem.You just gotta make sure you snap the bail all the way open and I mean snap.

Lastly a 706z.Didn't like it after the very first use.I much prefer my 704z bailess drilled with drainage holes over the 706.That freakin grinding noise from the roller bearing drives me insane!Can't stand the coffee grinder handle either.Great reel just not for me.

So what did guys use for the 1st time over the past season?