>What do you guys prefer or recommend as a good rod for
>spooks/sammies/poppers and maybe a few jerk baits here and
>there?

The following are really great for topwater:

1. Shimano Compre (6'6 Med Light Power, Med Fast Action) - An inexpensive rod $79.99 but it's absolutely swell for Super Spook Jrs and small poppers like Splash-Its or Chug Bugs. The one I have is the older version--Shimano revamped the line for 2004 but the 6'6 ML is probably still available.

2. Loomis MBR782C - More expensive but it's a great rod for ripping smaller Pointers (78 and 100 size), Staysees and the baits mentioned above. Has a bit more backbone. The MBR line is mainly for worming/jigging but the "2" power MBRs have tapers that are perfect (ie, a slower bend despite the "ex-fast" labeling) for walking spooks and ripping jerkbaits.

3. Loomis CBR845 - I use this Crankbait Series rod mainly for Spooks/Sammies and medium sized crankbaits. If you like shorter rods this seven footer may take getting used to when walking-the-dog.

>I just bought a curado with a 6:8 gear ratio I beleive
>this is a little to fast. Even when I try to slow down its a
>bit fast, so maybe another slower curado will do the trick.

A fast reel is what you want when working spooks and poppers. It's good to be able to take up slack line when walking-the-dog...