CH51E is the best you're going to do for a $200 "finesse" reel. I have one and recommend it. It's going to look like hell on the bright blue LTB though.
I do love expensive topwaters. However Zara Spooks and Pop-R's work just fine. I throw Gunfish, Sammies, Popmax, and Giant Dogs, but my PB Smallmouth came on a KVD Sexy Dawg that I got for $3.
Personally, I believe that the Crucial is a good step up from the Veritas. The 7'2" will probably need a heavier reel to balance well, but it should work nicely for your intended purposes. It's also possible to throw 5" Senkos on the MH Crucial and put the lighter tubes/jigs on the M. Do what feels best.
I'd add a 6'8" MH Crucial for the Tubes and Jigs, depending on the weights. I assume you're talking about the older black Crucials; the MH's in that line aren't terribly stout. If your tubes and jigs are on the heavier side, a MH Veritas, which is a more powerful rod, would be a good idea.
X2. That clicking drag upgrade is quite the boat-floater.
Tatula handle assemblies are a great place to start. I have a PX Type R handle on my Sol and while nice, it is short in length and very pricey.
If you can afford $100 rods, buy *** Omens. You said you wanted to stay under $100; they're available during sales for $85. If you can swing it, they're very good rods for the money.
To directly answer your question, I have a Skeet Reese glass crankbait rod from that line. It works and catches fish.
X2. Even stock, I have one brake on and the tension loose. I don't want to ruffle any feathers, but for me there is no scenario in which that Revo comes close to the CH200E.
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