Jake P

If you want a fast retrieve its easier done with a higher gear ratio and visa versa. It doesn't have to be done that way but it makes things easier. I use a 6.2:1 for everything, but thats just my preference. For crankbaits or anything with a treble hook for that matter i use one rod and its a 6'6'' MH/MF. Most people will use a medium power rod with a moderate tip because it keeps constant pressure on the fish, which if i understand correctly is critical with treble hooks. Here is a list of all the rods i use for all baitcasting applications. 6'6'' MH/F- all T-Rigs. 6'6'' MH/MF- all treble hooks 7' MH/F- jigs 7'6'' H/F- flipping jigs and plastics into thick stuff.

I reel with my right on both spinning and baitcasting, i guess im weird :-[.

LOL, now thats funny. Wow 5.91, i have never seen such a low score on Tackletour, they're usually pretty generous with the scores.

I'm sure the jokes are all in fun, i wouldn't worry about it. If you feel something, SET THE HOOK, its the only way you will find out what is and isn't a fish. Don't feel embarrassed if its not a fish, just cast it out and repeat. Some day's i set the hook on more things that aren't fish than are fish. You cant catch fish without doing it so like everyone has said "If it feels different set the hook!". Good luck.

Thank you guys, that makes perfect sense. Thanks for clearing up my scattered brain.

Personally i use a 6'6'' Medium heavy/Fast action casting rod and a Shimano Citica 100dsv. some people use 6'3'' rods and some use 7' rods, it all depends on what feels comfortable to you.

I think you have the right rod, personally i use a 7' M/F spinning rod but if baitcasting works for you then more power to you.

Glad to have you aboard, welcome home.

Welcome to the boards!

LOL, that was a good read. I have never had a snake bother me a second time, they usually go away after i bother them for a minute or two.

I have read Road Warriors post on "Power and Action defined" atleast 10 times and while for the most part it makes sense, at the same time it still doesn't. I think im missing something here about fishing anything with a treble hook. Why a Medium/Moderate Instead of a Medium Heavy/Fast while fishing trebles?

If you are a new Baitcast user start out with a combo until you get the hang of it, once you do then buy separately and match the rod and reel for what technique(s) you will be using it for.

They also have a 6'6'' Medium/Med. Fast and a 6'6'' Medium Heavy/Med. Fast. X2 on the warranty comment, they will replace it without question. I do not own the Crankbait model but i do have a 7' M/F and it is a nice rod.

Snapped a quick picture of a spot i fished at briefly on Saturday. I caught my first topwater fish and got 4 other bites but didn't get a good set on em'. If you walked up on this spot what would you throw and where? Just trying to get some ideas because im going back there soon.

pfft, what a dink. Seriously though do you ever catch anything small? Congrats on your accomplishment.

Hearing things like this makes me feel better about trying something new, thanks for the input.

I have a 7' MH/F i use for jigging, it works perfect for me.Its available in all different powers, actions and lengths for all different types of applications.

Im not a Quantum guy so im not in the position to suggest Quantum reels, but i can suggest some rods. For 89.99$ you can get a Shimano Compre which i have and love. If you can find a Fenwick HMG on Amazon.com they sometimes have them for 100$ even and thats a very good deal, regularly 129.99$.There is Allstar rods which are also good rods for around 90$. Just make sure you do your research before you buy one that way you wont see something else a week later and be disappointed. Good luck. P.S- CHECK EBAY!

Great video, looks like tons of fun. Maybe one day i can make it out to one of these historical events. I would have to occupy one of those empty seats though .

Rapala Rat-l-trap. I caught 2 fish on this lure on my fist 2 casts ever fishing for bass then lost it on the third or fourth.

There are alot more suggestions to be made if you can just give us a little more of an idea of what your willing to spend on a combo, 75,100,150?

I said BEWARE! ;D

1 lbs max.

BEWARE! this game is addicting- http://www.maniacworld.com/maze_game.htm

I haven't been out much this year and haven't caught much either. I have been trying to get family into it and i think its beginning to work. They just went out and bought some rods and reels and are looking for a boat. We decided to hit up the lake this afternoon and found a nice spot. No one caught anything for the first hour or so and then i got this strong feeling to throw a topwater out of nowhere. I have never really used topwaters and wasn't very good at getting the correct action out of them. I tied it on and began to work it like i remember reading from an article on here. After about 15 minutes of changing retrieves and techniques i got it down just about perfect. Tossed it out and my lure disappeared, i felt a tug and set the hook immediately. Reeled it in, it was nothing to brag about but im happy because i got my first topwater bite even though the fish didn't smash it like i always thought it would. I didn't even see the fish i just saw my lure go under and felt her. Either way, that one fish made my day. Going back at it again tomorrow morning bright and early. What is the ideal situation for topwaters, early mornings and late evenings? what type of structure/cover should i target? Thanks guys.