Hi my name is Mike, I started fishing last Sept. First time out, very first cast landed my first striper didn't catch any other time but enjoyed it very much. Which brings me here, I've just purchased a ISU1202MH 10' pole and have an VS250 on order. My question is, will this reel be to big for this rod or should I get an 11'? Yes, I just started and have decided to get the good stuff cause the people I have gone fishing with are able to go out to the fish( as they say)and not worry too much about thier equipment. So I've stepped up considerably from the $70 Sports Authority set-up. Not rich by any means, but being an electrician made these purchases possible. Also, my friend will be showing me how to make my own poppers, jiggs or whatever kind of lures we're going to be using. 2-8ozs is what pole is rated for...need optimum lure weight also. Hope to see some of you jersey shore fisherman this year..Thanks for any kind of tips help or advice.