I was all set to build a Lami GSB108 1L for inshore fishing on the north shore of Long Island, until a long time fishing expert told me I was making a mistake not going to a GSB108 1M. He claims it will still throw bomber and 3/4 to 7/8 oz. stuff without any problem, but will provide much more backbone to set a hook and fight a good sized striper or blue, and will give me the ability to heave a 2 1/2 to 3 oz. lure if I need it. I have not thrown a lure much more than 2 oz. in the last couple of seasons. For anyone that's experienced with inshore surf spinning set ups, am I giving anything up by going to the medium?

I fish mainly on the north shore of Long Island, and the rod I use mostly is a GSB1081L. I dont think you sacrifice anything in means of being able to sling a 7/8 bomber or 11/2 Kastmaster.If you fish with Powerpro and find you can't set a hook with this blank, then your doing something wrong. Plenty of backbone! Good Luck,
Matt Gates,Long Island

I have a 108-1L and have caught many nice sized bass (to #25lb) and blues (to #14lb) on it. It is rigged with a Penn Slammer 460 loaded with 30 lb Power Pro and the drag is set at 10 lbs with a drag scale. No problems at all and I can throw 3 oz on it but would not recommend wailing on it with the 3. However, 2.5 oz is fine for leaning on it. If you need to really get out there, a 9 foot spinner is not the right rod to begin with. Conventional in a 108-1M would be a good small distance rod though.

I fish the same area as you and use the 1081L. I think the 1m will be way to heavy to throw the swimming plugs and small rubber that you will be using on those summer nights. Go with the 1L, you won't reget it.

Thanks, guys. You certainly confirmed my sentiments.