That's the route Iv'e kinda gone too. Like my shimano's wrapped with 4lb. for the most part. Nice reel choices. Rods, so important, and I can fall in love with the right one. Always fantasized about making my own, that's cool. Iv'e been doing a lot of Panfishing (Bluegill, Crappie and Perch) still like Northern Pike, Bass and Walleye, but Panfish on a Ultra light Rod 6-10ft. is a blast!@stedimed used to do a lot of fishing , Reels of choice - Jigging Master - Accurate -- Shimano -- , I also built rods for a number of years , I am now into light tackle fishing . 2 kg line class .