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I have that rod, and it is definitley NOT suited for the big swimbaits; it can handle the small to moderate sized ones (9" would be pushing it), and its moderate action works well with trebled baits (rago rats, smaller Ospreys, Eagles, MS slammers, Mattlures 7" FTs).
The Okuma big bait rods are smaller, 7'6", but will save you some cash and will probably be more versatile. The XH can handle about as big a lure as you would want to throw, the H is probably a little more versatile. Check them out at www.tacklewarehouse.com, get some free swimbaits and free shipping while you are there. Okuma's also have an over-the-counter lifetime guarantee.
As far as Calico fishing, I know a thing or two about that; I was a deckhand out of Dana Point for 3 years and I have done my share of Calico fishing. The Loomis back bounce was my first Calico rod, and it has, and continues to serve me well. The thing is the "right" Calico rod depends on how you fish for them (as the "right" bass rod would). Something to consider that you might not have to when considering LMB tackle, is the boat that you will be fishing from. If you will be on a party boat, 8' is about the longest I would want a rod, some might disagree, anything longer gets in the way; the extra inches don't realistically equate to longer casting distance becasue the casting area is so limited. A longer rod does provide more leverage when wenching fish out of the kelp, but a shorter rod can get the job done; I have never had problems that I felt wold be automatically solved by a few extra inches...personal preference I guess. A good Calico rod will allow you to cast 6-7" swimbaits on heavy lead heads, maybe underhanded. If you are going to be throwing the iron, you might want a separate stick, although you might be able to get away with only one, if you have the right one and you push it a little beyond its ratings on both ends (throw smaller baits then recomended, and larger baits then recomended).
In short, I think the Okuma 7'6" would work well for Calico's too. I'd go with the H. It is a little stouter than the Loomis, a lot cheaper, and equally warranted. --John
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