uicdent11

I would try to get your hands on either of these rods: Loomis MBR844 Dobyns 735c Dobyns DX744 I now use the two Dobyns for the techniques you list. Not sure if either would cover all, but you might be able to decide on you preference if you could handle any listed. Here in N. IL, I would tend to lean towards the 744 as I only use the 735 for froggin and I think the 744 could handle it if need be.

It looks like that pic was taken right after he put the cork sealer on. It does leave a sheen, but dries w/o one. One even layer over the entire cork will do. I do notice that it turns some cork a little darker when it dries, but never leaves the clear shiny look that it shown the the pic above. I really like the stuff. Gives the cork a good feel and it does not pit. Extremely easy to clean as well. I can take a pic of some if you'd like.

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0017532316474a&type=product&cmCat=SEARCH_all&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&Ntt=cork+seal&Ntk=Product_liberal&sort=all&Go.y=0&N=0&Nty=1&hasJS=true&_dyncharset=ISO-8859-1&_DARGS=%2Fcabelas%2Fen%2Fcommon%2Fsearch%2Fsearch-box.jsp.form1&Go.x=0

Brass, Aluminum, or some other material?

I find that the ACS forces you to hold the rod a certain way. My hands just don't fit in the grooves. I much prefer the ECS reel seats.

SX new model is the same as the old model except the bent handle. The new STX has the dual braking system vs. only magnetic breaking on the new SX I had both last years model SX and STX at one point, but didn't like the braking. It is my understanding that once you get it dialed in it is money, I just could never get it dialed in. I switched to Shimano, including an E7, and love them. The new dual braking STX is intriguing, but I will stick with what works for me right now. Just my .02.

I will always have a spinning setup with me. I think it presents the plastic better in a vertical fall than bc gear. With that said, I do think that the core51 would be one of the few reels that could throw light stuff the best. Don't sell that spinning setup. I think you'll find a spot in your lineup for it.

Caught one on a core51/BCR803 combo 5" wacky my first weekend out. Nice little reel that will do everything you list well.

That's why we need 12 different rods.

I filled all my reels except size 50/51 Shimanos for the first time this year. I used 20# big game about 1/3 of the spool and then a piece of electrical tape once around the spool. I figured the tape would help me see when I was getting to the end. One problem I know I will have is getting the right amount of backing on the reel for my liking. With 20# test I just eyeballed it and it seems to be working well so far.

Powell 684CB is one that comes to mind. Never used it so I can't help ya there. A 7ft rod would be the St. Croix Legend Tournament Small Cranker.

Probably just not used to the action of the Mod/Fast rod. You should try the Loomis CBR843; it is honestly a noodle. I think the baits you are throwing are perfect for the rod. I have the 704CB and 705CB. I throw 3/8 in cover with the 705. It has enough tip to cast them accurately and more power than the 704CB. The 704 will be perfect for 1/5-3/8oz cranks,jerks, lipless and spinner baits. I would save anything in the 1/2 range or mid divers (6'-12') for a MH rod such as the 705CB.

Never realized this guy was from Rockford, IL. Heck, that's where I'm from.

Have never had good luck with any of the latest Storm products. I think there is a reason they are always in the bargain bins at Gander, Cabelas, and Bass Pro. I honestly think I donated all mine to a local charity for kids.

I have caught fish on several colors and combination of blades, but I have had my best luck with white.

Are these still around $40 when on sale? If so, they are a great rod for the price. I used one about two years ago and it was great for throwing shallow cranks.

Just give them a call. I know they were out not too long ago as I tried to order one. They are at least $38, but not sure exactly sure on the price.

I was thinking the same thing. Write the deepest depth right on top of the bill. I would think that it would wear off quicker on the top of the bill as it hits cover and the bottom. Thanks for some great info and a few good laughs guys.

He'll even go grab you a beer from the fridge. ;D

Where do you write it? What do you write with? What would you write for a crankbait that dives 2-5ft.? Thanks

That's why we have friendly members that are willing to go out of there way to pick some up and mail them. ;D

Chronarch 50mg. I believe it takes up approx. 25 IPT. Not too slow and not too fast. I use mine for shallow cranks, 3/8 spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, and poppers. Will work for buzzbaits, but I prefer a something that takes up closer to 30 IPT.

I've noticed the same thing with my stock bearings post flushing them in solvent. They spun forever on a pencil. I blew them out with an air compressor several times from both sides and they eventually barely spun. I assumed they were now dry of solvent. Placed a drop of reel mechanics oil and spun them on a pencil. They spun, but not for a very long time. Put them back in the reel and spun the spool (no line) and it was better, but not what I thought. Once I put on line and taped it down, the spool finally spun like I thought it would. Believe me, I was a little disappointed when they barely spun with fresh oil. Everything will be fine once you get them in the spool and spin it a few times.

You wouldn't game anything from switching just the knobs. Both handles are the same length which I believe is 85mm. Just replace the entire thing.

4 in front and 6 in back I believe. A lot of times you can google the companies website and see a list of specifications for each model lure.