Never mind feeling the bottom better, you are missing the key fact. You feel the fish taking the bait. Then when you set the hook you will not be worrying about the rod going into two pieces or spinning on you the line tangling on the eye and the 7 lb bass breaks the line. I actually replaced 80 percent of my rods. Like I mentioned earlier it has produced me more fish and it also has helped me physically. I was lucky enough to have a friend upgrading his rods and I purchased his used St. Croix's at a fraction of the price. They are all Premiere's. He upgraded to GLX and avid. This is also something you may want to think of.
It does make a difference. Check the papers, our site, craigs list, ebay. You might find some good deals.
Have to tell you the last two rods are bought new were:
Well I am going bassin tonight and going to use my new G. Loomis 7'11" swimbait rod with the presidential baitcaster on it.
and my new favorite. I use this one for drop shotting. I also use it to throw hair jigs. Hands down it has become one of my spring cold water go to rods.
I have the
CRS-DX72M 7'2", Med Power, 6-12lb Line Rating, 1/8-3/8oz Lure Rating, Ex Fast Action, 1 Piece
they also have Shimano® Crucial® Drop Shot Spinning Rod - 6'8" / M / 6-12lb
High modulus IM-9 graphite blank.
New Concept Fuji Alconite guides.
Spinning models feature a clicking Fuji reel seat.
Shaped grade “A” cork handles.
Gudebrod thread wrapped guides for added strength.
Convenient hook keeper.
Etched Badge butt cap.
Model
CRSDX68M 6'8" 6-12lb. x Fast 7+ tip