I started with Convectors by a high recommendation from a MI retailer that knew a ton about trolling. Not having used others, I can say I love mine. Use them for pulling off shore boards on mono, up to small spoons for shallow salmon early in the year. I have bigger 40 series ones for lead core, and like them all. After hooking up with say a big brown trout on ten pound mono, and having a board out 120', the 30 series can be a little small feeling… but only when compared to the bigger 40's. Biggest thing, run them nice and full. Gives you better retrieval speeds, and if all kept the same, more accurate measurements for multiple lines out.

I use Okuma Classic Pro GLT Downrigger Rods in medium light 7'6" for everything. Seems light, but I can run dipsies, light walleye gear or whatever, and they are like $30 each.