Looking for Rod/Reel suggestions

Ended up getting a new boat (18ft Legend Excalibur) and its time to get some new rods to match. Typically over the years ive only been using my Shimano Voltaeus rod (ultra light) matched with Shimano IX 1000 light reel. Caught everything from small perch to 8lb pike. But with the bigger boat I'm looking for a more all round rod/reel in more of the 6-7 ft range and medium light-medium action.

Considering the Voltaeus is hard to find now what would you all suggest?

Fishing techniques mainly include casting crankbaits (Little Big O for the win..) or trolling with Raps.

Eventually I'll get the downriggers on and be asking the same question for some trolling rods. but for now what do you guys suggest is a good all round rod/reel that wont break the bank?

If you've been happy with the Shimano rod and reel you've been using why not stay with them. Just move on up to a 2000 or 2500 and match it with a comparable rod. I've been fishing with Shimano rods and reels for the past 40 or so years and been very happy with their products.

The saying goes if it's not broke why fix it....plus they stand behind their products....

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Originally Posted by Bo D

If you've been happy with the Shimano rod and reel you've been using why not stay with them. Just move on up to a 2000 or 2500 and match it with a comparable rod. I've been fishing with Shimano rods and reels for the past 40 or so years and been very happy with their products.

The saying goes if it's not broke why fix it....plus they stand behind their products....

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Issue is I have no place nearby where they stock the Voltaeus.. Otherwise I would do just that!

It's been a while since I've upgraded rods (10+ years) just was curious as to what people are using these days and if they had suggestions.

Over the last few years I’ve added some St Croix rods to my line up. Rather than one general rod I’ve got some specific ones now. St Croix is obviously getting into premium gear, but the mojo ones have a 5 year warranty and the Victory ones have 15. My one piece Victory spinning is awesome, matched it with a 2500 Vandford. St Croix is a great company, easy to talk with one the phone. I had a scratch in a rod. It looked like it had rubbed on something. I filled in a warranty claim, no questions asked, paid for shipping and was sent a new rod. I will be getting more.