I have the Celilo except in the 7'10" length. This is a sweet rod for 9" slammers and the other baits you mentioned. Your 7'6" will be great as well. I feel that using the 7'6" Celilo for the XX or 12" Slammer might not be quite enough rod, but will be way better then a flipping stick. If your fishing the XX or 12" Slammer over vegetation you might want to use the XH Swimbait rod, if your fishing it more on top in open water the Celilo will be fine. I hope this helps, let me know if you have any questions.