WSOzzie

It has been years since I attended an outdoor show. I am, however, planning to go to the Chicagoland Fishing/Outdoor show in Schaumburg this upcoming weekend. My hope is that it's better than what I've been reading here...lol. Starting to scare me off a bit ---- but I do need a fishing fix, I'm afraid. Tom

DS - Aaron's Magic just killed for me this summer

From what I've been able to research, both are comparable in price and weight. I would love some insight from those who have owned. Plan is to build a dropshot rig with either the new megabass or a reliable higher end St. Croix (depending on Santa's giftcard workshop.....). As always, I appreciate the consideration. T

The lake that I fish is clear, and I would think that just using the 6 lb flouro-only these past couple of months has helped in fish count because of water clarity. The line twists have been maddening, so I have had two reels set to go for that reason. Sounds to me that fisherman-error is the reason for the breaks --- and I will loosen the drag. I will also take the advice of most and set up a braid ML to flouro leader rig as well a flouro-only 8lb Sniper setup. Thanks again, to all who took the time.

I appreciate the replies. Think I will go with braid mainline and a 4-6' flouro leader. What is the down side of a swivel connecting the braid and flouro?

Has anyone successfully used a heavier flouro line for drop shotting? This is my first summer of DS, and no complaints whatsoever until the past couple weekends. I have lost a handful of 'large' fish due to line breaks.....not at the hook. Yes, the fish were biggest and heaviest of the season, so my frustration is high. Currently using 6 lb P-line on a Shimano Symmetre 2500 paired with Denali Kovert 6'10" M. 1/0 Martens hook w/ 3/16 sinker. As always, I appreciate the knowledge.

As we head into fall, I am curious what successes folks have had fishing inland lakes in the Midwest. I primarily fish in Michigan, and the last two weekends have truly been a struggle. Drop-shots were hot during late July and August, but that well has seemed to have run dry. Curious as to techniques, time of day, etc. As always, I appreciate the knowledge.

I want to thank the forum for all the tips for using a baitcaster for the first time --- you guys taught an old dog a much-appreciated new trick. My 'new' first reel is a Daiwa Exceler (<$100) which I believe is working quite well, matched with an ***. Primarily used this spring with C-rigged senkos. I am down to the #2 setting on the brakes without a birdsnest or the fear of one (banging on wood right now!). Now for the next step. My question is...what is the benefit of a more expensive reel - what will I find to be different? Thanks, as always, folks. Best forum in the business!

1. Be aware of environment - above and below the waterline 2. Listen to the elders....... 3. Slow down and enjoy the day

Thanks for the information. By setting up a RH retrieve, I will use the other arm, and at the same time expand the arsenal to at least one baitcasting rod. Right now, I am looking at either a Denali Kovert. Dobyns Savvy or Fenwick elite tech (appropriate length); Lew's bb1 (RH); 12 lb. flouro. Again, I do appreciate the input and messages.

What I've researched brings me to exactly your point. Rods seemed to be Denali Kovert, *** and the Dobyns Savvy. All @ 7' (6'10" - 7'1")...great reviews for each. Obviously, pairing with balance is what we all hope for. Are you saying that a heavier line is preferable less stress on the wing?

Had a great summer on the lake, but now facing a bit of the music with elbow tendonitis. Doing my due diligence to rectify the problem with rest, exercise, etc..., but I am thinking about trying a lighter setup for next year, and I need some advice. I have been a spinning reel guy with my revo sx and st. croix mojo bass as my go-to choice of weaponry. Primarily throw senkos or soft plastics. I think it's time that I move to a lighter baitcaster and appropriate rod. Would like to stay $250-ish.... As always, thanks in advance.

T-rig 7" worm - pumpkinseed

Where at in Indiana are you located? Northwest....Valpo area. Do most of my fishing, though in SW MI...Sister Lakes region.

Thank you to everyone who responded. I think it's pretty cool that the membership is willing to share their wealth of knowledge and experience. Much to process....but I look forward to it! Thanks, again. O

Looking for input for specific shaky head set-up. I am a novice with this technique, but after a particularly slow summer and fall, I want to learn. What rod, reel and line combo has worked for you? Also, jig head and worm preferences are more than welcome. Thanks in advance for your help.