I used a 6 wt for pretty much all my warmwater fishing. I've landed 6 1/2 lb bass, catfish to 12 lbs, common carp to 16 lbs, and grass carp to 35 lbs. I take that back... Those last 3 were all on a 5 wt (with 3x tippet...8.5 lb test). For bass, carp, and catfish, I'd recommend using 10 lb or 12 lb tippet. (2x or 1x).