IMO, there's no better rod company than dobyns. I currently have plenary of buddies who have used the duckett rods and have now switched to another company. I'm a fan of the 705cb, but if you're looking to deep crank, my suggestion is the 733. I hear the $99 castaway rods are really good for the money as well, you could possibly check them out. I don't know what they have in their lineup though.

I am a Duckett Ghost owner as well and have no complaints about them. When I buy gear (rods,reels,etc) I always take into consideration how easily would it be if I needed to return/exchange if there are any issues. Ducketts are sold in most big name stores so if would be easy to replace. Also Academy will allow you to exchange items without a receipt, so if you bought a Duckett Ghost elsewhere (Bass Pro), you could technically take it to any Academy and get it swapped out. Just something to think about.....

I won't comment on the Duckett rods since I have never owned one personally although know many that have. I will tell you that once you have one of the Dobyns in your hands you will understand some of the comments mentioned above.

When you say crank bait rod, are you talking a deep diver, square bill, lipless, etc??? That can be a big difference maker in the rod choice. The 705CB many mentioned is a good all around crankbait rod but you may find it to be a little much for a small square bill.

For the c-rig, which is a favorite technique of mine, I would go with the 734C in the Fury series or the 764c in any of the other series. I personally throw a Champion series 764C with the full handle.

Another great option is the Kistler Magnesium 2 rods with the Winn grips and Microwave guides. I received an email from them a few days ago that advertised a current sale they are having on Magnesium 2 rods (sale is only for Magnesium rods).

sale discounts:
Purchase 1 rod = 25% discount
Purchase 2 rods = 30%
Purchase 3 rods = 40%
Purchase 4+ rods = 45%

Here is the link to Kistler's website: Kistler Rods - website

Discount is automatically applied when you add the rods to the cart.