MSPbass

I use YUM Garlic. It lasts more than 3 casts, that's for sure. I usually put it on after a new bait's been used a while and the original salt and scent are wearing off. When I don't smell spaghetti dinner anymore, I know it's time for another squirt. I'll often get in the car, at the end of the day, and still get a whiff of the stuff that got on me at some point earlier.

The ETX10HD is $40 NEW at the BPS web site. http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_90338____SearchResults?ordProd=Y&CMID=BOTTOM_selectitems So I wouldn't bid over $50.

I do well in the East Metro with chatterbaits in the Spring. And, of course, Senkos. And the bass opener "sneaked up" on you huh? I've been crossing off the days on my calendar for months! I was seriously bummed watching all those walleye guys hitting the lakes this weekend. And a little ticked at all the folks I saw fishing from shore, who I'm sure, were hitting bass. But that's a whole other topic.

It's funny, I see a lot of that when I'm browsing the Cabela's and BPS catalogs in my "office". I've seen some horrible mistakes too. They most certainly photoshop pictures, but they also photoshop individual rods. I saw one rod pic recently where the reel hood was missing! I'm sure that cranking stick was actually two different rods that someone pieced together for the add. Someone dumb.

I mostly use them as a buzzer. However, when I'm fishing from shore, I often let them sink and hop them off the bottom once it hits shallow water. I've caught a bunch of bass using the Ribbit, pretty much like a jig, in clear, shallow water. I learned that trick by accident on a day I was getting skunked. I think I stopped reeling, to answer a phone call or something, and it sat there for a few minutes. A little guy picked it up right of the bottom. Now I use that technique pretty regularly. I can fish a Ribbit all day. I love those things!

ebby - you think Christmas trees are included in that?

Reaction Innovations makes some awesome baits. You don't hear much about them, at least I don't, but their Dominator worm is killer too. For a while, I thought they out-fished a Senko. I'm not sure of that now, but it's still one of my all time favorite baits.

You were going to pay $15 for 3 Beavers? You must have really wanted those lil' guys. I am glad you were pleasantly surprised when your order showed up! Shows just how good their reputation is too.

Buzzbaits are perfect for pre-dawn. And then after the sun comes up and around 9AM and then for lunch and then in the shade when the sun is out and in the evening and after dark....

I say loose the swivel too. I fish flukes on braid tied straight to a 5/0 EWG that's pushed through and skin hooked on the top.

I have several Pfluegers and I find my Trion cranking reel quite trustworthy. It's not flashy, but maybe that's what makes it so solid. It's a very smooth reel too. A see lot of pros still use their old Trions.

Good point DGuy and very true. I just always wanted a President and that set up had been on my wish list for years. But a Patriarch would make it more versatile. And, I agree, I would probably find a reason to get another Patriarch at some point down the road anyhow! This way, I can call my rod & reel arsenal "complete". That's how I'll have to present it to the Mrs. at least.

That helps. Thanks. I actually have a couple Patriarchs myself ( ), but I had always planned to put a President on a frog rod. It took a few years, but I finally got the rod; just wasn't sure if I was up for new tricks. I haven't heard much about the P2, but sometimes, when a company changes such a classic (IMHO) product, the new one doesn't measure up. (Coke2?) Sounds like Pflueger's done a good job with this upgrade though. I'm glad. Except it means my new rod will have to go unused for a while longer. I thought I might stick with the P1, but if I'm going to upgrade, I'll upgrade to another Patriarch. It just won't happen as soon. Thanks again guys. You've help me end the crazy debate I've been having in my head for the last 2 months.

I did a search, but didn't find anything on the new Pflueger President 2; but I know it's been discussed here. Anyhow, can any Pflueger users give me a comparison of the two? The first President was a very well liked reel. Does the P2 meet expectations? Exceed expectations? Or would you suggest someone look for a P1 while they still can? Thanks

The Blade is above the hook, rumbling across the surface of the water, causing all the commotion. The hook faces up and rides just below the surface. Your line will be tied to the bait, in-line with the body and hook, below the blade. Buzzbaits are awesome! Once you throw em out a few times, you'll see how they work. Run them fast, run them slow, run them any time of the day too.

Not so much. They've got some unique colors, but not enough jiggle.

A slow and steady retrieve is probably used the most. You can also do a stop-and-go retrieve to mimic an injured baitfish.

Vision Lures Honeybuzz! It's a squeaker, not a clacker. The hinged hook and double weights makes them so easy to throw. They always stay upright too.

If you've read anything here, I'm sure you've seen how loyal Shimano folks are. Myself, I have a President in both sizes. I prefer the smaller 35, but love them. Most President owners seem to feel the same. So I say the Pres; but you will probably will be happy with either.

Check it out: http://store.pacifieronline.com/jjcedb.html It's the "men's diaper bag" I used when my first kids were born.

Fenwick has a HMG (7'6" XH) that telescopes. They have one in the Techna line too.

Honeybuzz

That's great. Thank You!

You can really swim any jig, but does anyone prefer a non-swim specific head? Rattles or no rattle? How about trailers? A single tail grub seems to be the traditional way to go, but I know folks swim craws too. What about Beavers or Creatures? Anyone willing to share a unique swimming combo that may be a surprise pairing?

How do you send a reel in for cleaning? I have an older Pflueger baitcaster that's in need of a good tune up.