I dunno about the hot stick. While the stock stick is lighter and more responsive, I find it to be a nuisance in light air. When I'm in 6-8, I end up in the middle of the boat and the stock stick ends up getting caught in my trap rings. I can shorten the hotstick so it doesn't get stuck in my trap rings and I can sit dead center on the tramp.



12+ with crew and the stock stick is the way to go.

I've got both and switch back and forth depending on the wind.