Dwight Hottle

Nice surprise.

Take a hard look at a Kistler Helium 3 heavy extra fast in 7'-3" or 7'-6". Perfect for your specs.

Good observation. There is a reason you don't hear much about Garcia past or present. ?

22.5” x 17”

Peas are beautiful especially with their orange/yellow/green coloration but some smallies are pretty too. ?

I like to use 10 or 20 lb braid with moderate action rods for jerk baits & cranks usually with a mono/fluoro leader.

Welcome to BR. Peacocks are the smallmouth bass of south FL.

Looks like trout heaven. Great post.

Knockin on the 5lb door, congrats on the PB.

All of the 54 six lb plus smallies I have caught were caught on a jerk bait except one. It was caught on a crank bait bumping bottom, my pb at 7lb-6oz.

Local people always loved bumping into him at the neighborhood Publix grocery store in Jupiter FL. He will be missed.

Welcome to BR Tom.

PB's are always sweet especially when you can enjoy them with family.

It only gets better from here.

It's important to remember that round reels were the norm before low profile reels got introduced. Round reels have a reputation for being sturdy workhorse reels that excell for heavier baits, stronger drags, greater line capacity and durability over time. Low profile reels have gained in popularity because of smaller size & shape & lower weight. Both types have a place in my arsenal.

Sweet!

Thorne Bros dropped the ball. You should not have allowed them to have your reel for months without some explanation. When you call the number John gave you ask to speak with Dan (Bantam) & explain your problem with Thorns Bros. I sure Dan will get you fixed up. I have always dealt directly with Shimano in California for service & have been happy with the results.

You know once you pay for that walleye mount you are going to catch a bigger one. ?

I caught 5 fish between 9-0 & 9-8 before I got my first DD. I was feeling snake bit because 9's really make you think you have scored your first DD until the scale tells you otherwise. When i caught my first DD I had a wave of relief & satisfaction knowing I had finally achieved every fisherman's dream. My first 9lber/9-2

I understand your concern. It should be public waters only. Back in the day private ponds were just ponds with fish in them as opposed to managed fisheries.

Looks like a pike to me based on the fins & body coloration. Tough to tell without a side angle.

Yes.

Just google adjustable boat fender straps or clips. All kinds. www.basspro.com/shop/en/bass-pro-shops-adjustable-fender-holder-strap?hvarAID=shopping_googleproductextensions&gclid=CPn92eO5gd0CFX2qZQodFNkPIw&gclsrc=ds

They make adjustsble straps for fenders to attach to the cleats. Run four fenders two on each side & you can dock right or left.

How about attaching your fenders to the boat cleats.