Okuma Convectors get my vote for a good value and performance. We have 10 Convectors rangeing from the CV30 to the CV55, We do have one Tekota, and no doubt there are a nice reel, but you pay for it. For riggers I use (and really like) the Shimano Charter Special reels with the lever drags, all 4 of our riggers will be these this year. Rod lenghts vary, but mostly I use the 8 footers for riggers and cores and copper and 10 footers for divers. I have a mix of Okuma, Diawa and Shimano rods. You should check out the new Okuma Classic rods, they have a lifetime warranty, stainless steel eyes and you can get 3 for the price of one Shimano Talora. I can't wait to try mine new ones out!