hey, just wanted to let you all know that i used my new calstar 900xl for the first time on that trip (along with the new calcutta 400S). All i have to say is that rod kicks some serious @$$. The one nice sandy i caught was just hangin onto the hook for the ride up after about half way up. he was beat. -alright, hey, jump on the stardust guys, i don't know about you, but if they're bitin, i'd rather be catchin bass than rockfish anyday.