The Diesel rod you're considering may be a little underpowered for 1/2 to 3/4oz baits. Especially if you're dong any ripping. The 705CB or 755CB in the 3D lineup might be better choices IMHO. They also have the Nuisance lineup, lime green blanks, for $89 in the same models, but I haven't gotten a look at them. The powers and actions do vary a little between the rod lines. The 705CB in the Diesel line is like a cranking rod, but the 705CB in the 3D line is more like a spinnerbait rod.