Bart, recently had the opportunity to troll with the BnM Pro Staff Trolling rods in Mississippi in 4 ft of water, where we caught 37 crappie, most going 2.25 to 2.75 lbs, one over 3 lbs. We used 1/2 oz weights and had not problems. These poles are the real deal.
I had used the regular BnM poles for trolling prior to this experience and had problem with the rods breaking about 6 to 10 inches from the tip. The Pro Trolling Poles have a back bone and I was so impressed, I ordered 8 when I returned home.