Hi Tim I have just returned from New Caledonia on my first ever Gt popping trip & used a Jigging Master GT Monster 7 8" rod with a Stella 18000 & 100lb braid.I was very impressed with the whole setup but especially the rod.It was very nice to cast with,very lightweight & loads of power.I had two strikes from Gts on the trip & landed both,which were estimated to weigh around 40/45kg each by the guides.Both fights were very hard with one going into deep water after being chased by a shark but the rod performed brilliantly & had heaps of lifting power in the butt.I may only get to fish for Gts once a year & cannot justify spending a huge amount on a Japanese custom rod so was very happy with the JM considering the amount paid for it.Excellent rod.