i had a problem of having to test the newest baits and tackle, i've got hundreds of baits i've only used once or twice :$
i am now set on a few specific baits, i buy them locally or i order online. it's crazy but i have 4-8 backups for my go to baits. nothing is worse than not having your go to colour!
I am down to two Shimano's, a CQ51 and Vanquish. Had all the shimano reels....curados, chronarch(a,b,d, mg, and e), and cores. I am now all daiwa except the two. I consider these two reels the best Shimano reels available.
Those weighted hooks aren't very strong. Was fishing the tourny on gbay and i used the weighted wacky hooks by Owner and Jackal. I lost at least 5 fish and straightened at least 2-3 of the mentioned hooks. Crazy how hard the smallies pull !!
I was using a MH rod, 30lb sx1 with 16lb sniper leader with a loose drag on my Steez.
Will go back to my gammy hooks.
15-20lb sunline sx1 mainline and then use flour leader if needed. 30lbs is a little too much for spinning gear, you'll have a chance of damaging the reel before snapping the line in snags. Stren Supersonic braid is good also.