I have several custom rods made by Terry Manley and have been more than pleased with them so when I heard he had a production series of rods coming out I was a tiny bit skeptical. After a full season of use from freshwater to saltwater I can say that skepticism is gone. outstanding value in a versatile, sensitive yet strong rod. I have a spinning and casting model and they both get loaded for my trips before anything else. If you want a little "fancier" looking rod, go with the platinum series, for me the Gold series holds everything I need in an awesome package at an affordable price!