I would appreciate any suggestions on a good trolling rod and reel. I will be trolling heavy, deep-diving crankbaits. Also, any comments re line size, type, etc. will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

I would try one of the trolling rods out of the bass pro shop that are one piece, but extend out to 7'6" you can spend from $20 on up and can get a stiff road. I fished with several of the PWT pross and most of them use the diawa line counters and they would also be my choice.

Good luck,

The Diawa 27s and 47s are good units. For 10 or
12# line the 27s have plenty of capacity.
I have found that you shouldn't have to spend much on rods. A fiberglass rod, M to MH in at least 71/2' in length will do the job for long lining and planer boards. If you plan on running dipseys, you will need MH to H rods to handle to load. Brands probably are not important. I personally like 8 to 9' two piece rods (for storage). Go with foam handles on the rods, they hold up better than cork in the rod holders. Collapsable rods are fine but more expensive.
Good Luck,
Jim

Bass Pro has a Daiwa 27 linecounter/power plus fiberglass rod combo for $99.99. A good price for this unit. The 8'6 rod can pull boards and deep divers.
Good luck.

Both of the above post are on the mark. I use 8'3" fiberglass rods and love them. I have cork handles and they ere deteriorating. One thing I can add is a reccomendation for fairly stiff tip. With my rods I can see small and large plugs vibrate and can notice even a little grass. After you get use to proper action you save a lot of time checking potentialy fouled plugs. I use 10 lb. Stren and have had great luck. I change it once a year and it's tough. Good luck

Jeff