J Francho

Were the internals different from a typical Abu? If so, I'd retract my response.

My preference would be for the ALX, based on my experience with Abu products in general. They haven't wavered much in terms of architecture, and the internals are smooth and durable. Quantum usually have wholesale changes in new models. Some models are really nice, but others are duds.

Very good to hear you are getting better.

I wouldn't even call them a step up. More like half a step, and it's not all tapers. A MXF is pretty comparable to most others. All their MH, fast and up are pretty stout though. I'm speaking of SCIII, IV and V, since those are what I own.

Amen to that. It's really bad. I've taken to just leaving the phone on mute, face down on the seat. It's still legal to check it when you are at a light. If someone sends me a message, they get an, "I'm driving..." response. Anyone important calling knows I have my phone synced with the truck, and will make a standard call. I'm not to keen on that - haven't quite figured out that it should be the same as talking to someone riding with me. I guess I'm a little old school.

Not with the moderate tapers. The MM rated rods will struggle with average size lipless. The MM excels with peanut to about 1/2 oz. baits. I have the same rod as well, and it works well with usual size lipless.

Here's how it's done: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maddieberg/2018/12/03/how-this-seven-year-old-made-22-million-playing-with-toys-2/#569e33204459

I like the Fuego. You can probably also get into a Kastking with an upgraded spool for that much. @Bluebasser86 probably has better info on what is available and what has worked. There's a few others that have tricked them out as well. A search for Kastking should pull up lots of threads.

Great news!

You can put any size line on a baitcaster, it's when you start getting into light baits, less than 1/4 oz. that you want a reel with a light spool and fast start up.

50# braid is the same diameter as 12# mono.

Yep, all braids do this. That means it's time to retie. Also, check you guides for cracks or chips. That will fray braid really quick. Run a q-tip around each and look for snags.

Is it the line slapping the frame as you spin the handle?

But first, we need to air our grievances and commit feats of strength.

The tubes are nice for storage in the off season. I can usually get three bubble wrapped rods in one tube.

I used to do real trees, but we have a pre-lit artificial now. Funny thing, it's dropping needles. Might be time for a new one.

Lure Parts has it. Just Google them.

That's the tiny bag. A purse, really, lol. This is the one I use: https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/bass-pro-shops-extreme-boat-bags

I like these and the waterproof boat bags BPS sells. Both are simple, useful and are durable.

It's got that erratic action my wife just can't resist! ?

Definitely. Even now, when I want to add something or change the set up, I sit in the yard, and go through all the motions - paddling, pedaling, getting rods and tackle, putting gear away, rigging a stake out pole or anchor, etc. It's good to know nothing is going to hinder you, and you're comfortable doing it all from a seated position. Even though I often stand, it's not always feasible.

The key to any solid kayak purchase is seat time. This is the only way you can really know how you'll like it.