So I went in to buy the Okuma swimbait rod (XH) for throwing Hudds and came across an Okuma Celilo CE-C-761 7'6" H Salmon Boat Rod 12~25 lbs 1/2~6 oz 8+Tip 1 on clearance for $25.
I knew it would work better than my flippin stick for my Rago Rat, Matt's Baby Bass, and Charlies but I also figured I could throw at least upto 9" Slammers with it. My question is if anyone knows whether it could handle the 12" Slammers or the new XX Slammer series.

I also picked up a new 301 Cardiff for these rods and was wondering if the drag on the new model year still needs to be replaced per "Cardiff Mods" post or if they have already been improved by Shimano to use as is (at least until the warranty is up).

Thanks!