J Francho

Probably looks like mine - a bunch of white baits that caught a lot of fish. I use Aruku Shads and Xcaliburs now, nad they have the same issue with finish. Can't help it, smashing them into rocks works to well to stop!

Paul knows what he's doing - he's not a rank amateur. I'm sure if he says he wants more drag power out of his reels, he actually needs more drag out of his reels.

That's awesome, dude, lol. I can't tell you how many times I've thought I have the next state record smallie on, only to realize it's a stinkin' sheephead.

All you have to do is get those baits wet in order to remove the finish, lol.

Spring washers might be shot.

I can't tell you how many mangled drag star stars I see. It blows my mind why someone would be possessed to do this.

Carbontex will add power, especially if installed dry.

I scratch mine on the fish I catch.

There's a couple spots at the city dump that I was able to get to this way. Kind of funny leaving your boat anchored. If you do it, leave a float plan taped to the windshield so no one freaks out.

If I were looking for aluminum, I'd be looking at Crestliner, Xpress, and G3. I own an Xpress. Here's the drawbacks, and it's not limited to just that brand - storage sometimes leaks, ride can be rough at times, wind moves you and can be a struggle. Advantages: they are a little lighter than glass, though the good brands are relatively heavy in the tin boat world because they use heavier gauge aluminum, You can beat the heck out of them, and even if you actually break one, a good aluminum welder is a TON cheaper than a glass/gel coat guy. They usually have pretty intelligent layouts - nod to Crestliner and Xpress in this dept. They are less expensive to own and maintain. Just hit it with a hose after fishing, no need to wash and wax. I own both a big glass rig and a reasonable Al boat. Love them both.

Mother ship! Keep one, strap it to the deck, and go where no person has fished before!

A little 12V 7ah battery is around 6x3x4" and can be located anywhere in dry storage that just about every fishing kayak has. You'll get at least three full days of fishing from a single charge.

I mess up more rods on shore and in my big boat than ever in the kayak. If you are going to take out several rods - I rolled with around eight in my kayak - then you'll need some rod management. I like to have 3-4 more holders than rods, that way there's always a place to put them. Some newer boats, like the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler, allow you to store them under the gunnels, which is pretty cool. The important thing to remember is to watch for casting and overhangs. Keep your casting side free. If you have rods right behind the seating area, bu sure to use lure wraps. Nothing worse than being pinned to a rod in the middle of the lake - ask me how I know! Here's a few shots of me in my old rig:

That is a single person boat. The Pro Angler comes with Mirage Drive, so no heavy batteries or trolling motor necessary. http://www.hobiecat.com/mirage/mirage-pro-angler-12/

Fish with what you have! Learn how to use the kayak to get to spots you can't from shore or boat, and fish your style. Eventually, you'll realize what may or may not be missing from your arsenal. My guess is you'll want some heavy cover gear. The kayak will allow you slide into some heavy slop, where lazy pigs are lying in wait. Stout gear will get them out, and if not, you can just pull yourself in to the fish. Congrats on the new ride!

So, your switching to little gold Eagle Claw hooks? J/K!!!! I've recently reread the book. I gave a copy away, and never got it back. Luckily, a member here had it up on the FM. It's probably the definitive volume on monster bass. I like to think if Mr. Murphy was around today, he'd have embraced kayak fishing.

I have issues with several 8# size fluoro on 2500 size spinning gear. I've settled with 6# InvisX and 6# Tatsu for these applications. Check your line and knots frequently. Use KVD Line & Lure Conditioner after every trip. Be sure to set your drag appropriately. 2-3 lbs. of resistance is all you need. When you are "finessing" a hooked fish back to the boat, use "gentle force" letting the rod move the fish, not your reel, by lifting, and reeling back down. repeat. If the drag squeals, lust let her run. Resume when the drag stops squealing. Good luck and have fun!

Nice report back, and nice work getting your feet wet in competitive fishing. As long as you keep it loose, fun, and find your confidence, you'll do well.

Nice combo!

Nice work Wayne!!!!

I use it when I salt cure brown trout eggs for steelhead. I have seen it make difference compared to other guys' concoctions. Some days it doesn't matter, but on tough days it can be a difference maker.

Yeah, that was a 15' boat. I'd go smaller, and less complicated, though that was a great boat for Great Lakes smallie fishing. I could go out in conditions that kept a 20' bass boat on the trailer.

Oh, I know the plusses all to well. I'll keep the tourney boat for big water, but want to add a little tinny to the fleet. Here's my old Sea Nymph: Dad and I were on the sheephead.

LMAO!!! That's a great nickname.

Dude is an animal!