I have the fox compact and fox stalker pods. For my light fishing day sessions the compact pod is so handy. Generally I take stage stands and some inserts just in case aswel. Not long ago the screw insert on my euro buzz bars broke, coming off and being stuck in the stick rendering me in a rubbish situation. I now always take spare sticks. So in my opinion have both sticks and pod available always. U never know what swim u may end up in tracking the fish, or if the water is busy. In regard to the compact pod, great bit of kit. Small and very light. 600g if I recall. I can't see my other pod getting much daylight now