JUNK: toolshop brand of bolt cutters, jaws bend on bigger hooks. I had to cut a bunch of hooks on St. Clair for pike mainly so I know.
Any kind of tackle from Gander that are guide series except 8.6ft Rods. Had problems with leaders when first started out, lost expensive baits.
Abu garcia reels except the record, I love the record for the money.
Ace bait gliders, grubby joes, and watch out for cheap ebay walk the dog topwaters that just pull the dog.

GOOD: I can't say enough good things about my boat, 2007 Lowe 17.5 Stinger. Wide beam, good storage, decent motor for price, I can draft super shallow water, took boat on St. Clair in 2.5 ft. waves and never took on water. Paid around 12,400 new from Moores in Ligonier. Stealth 50 pound, never had a break, keep your line guides checked with Q tip and line changed. I have a love the stringease quick change but keep an eye if it gets to easy to slide a bait on, change it.