Delaware Valley Tackle

From the pics it doesn't look like that cork is that far gone. Just needs a little tlc. Clean/fill/seal as suggested

There's definitely a point of diminishing returns but prices can only be raised to what the market will tolerate. Whether it's cars, houses, wine, fishing tackle you name it, some people enjoy the finer things. Doesn't make th bad or others bad for choosing to be more frugal. On a strict cost / benefit basis IMO $250-$275 will get you all the reel you want.

First off, for sheer distance spinning tackle is the way to go. That said, 25 yards is not terrible. Over head casts are rarely the best. Whipping the rod gets the spool spinning fast causing the over run as the bait decelerates. The rod may well be too powerful and not loading correctly. Cast with a smooth motion. Let the rod do the work

A slower action (mod or mod/f) helps keep them pinned when they jump.

These are broad statements. M , MH ... are all subjective and vary brand to brand and even models within brands. Just make sure the weight of the bait falls well within the listed range then check for backbone to move fish and counter resistance of bait on retrieve

The 300e is a completely different reel more geared toward swimbaits, A rigs etc.

Unless you are exceptionally small in stature it shouldn't affect rod length. Application should be the determining factor

Blanks very slightly so even if they gave you the intended size, you have to measure the tip. Tops are sold by ring and tube side. Unless it's a micro guide rod the ring size is most likely 6. Tube sizes are 64ths of an inch and sometimes mm. Measure the tip about 1/8 from the end. Order the guide and hot glue adhesive.

Loosen the cast control, pull the spool and reinstall it. If it doesn't reset exchange it at the retailer

It most likely just needs cleaning. The components are too small to see wear most likely. If I remember the AR in that is not self contained so the little pins may spill out if you take it down all the way. Pay close attention and be sure not to lose anything

I got your message and will get you some info shortly. For a rod of mh power sun 4oz finished weight is real light.

Pm sent

Something I learned bed fishing is if a fish you can see can inhale, move and spit a bait faster than you can react and with out feeling it, no way are our reflexes so fast as to pull a bait away from a fish that truly wants it. If you're getting short strikes change color, size, retrieve or bait. It's not the line or rod action causing the problem.

I run braid on spinning reels so lone breakage is of little or no concern. Even many of the monos break much heavier than their marked # test. The added control of back reeling is non issue to me. Both types are still readily available

Your problem is the model of reel. On their round reels the level wind doesn't disengage for casting so it takes a lot more weight to get it going. That reel won't cast anything under 1/2 oz very well especially right out of the box.

I got one of those seats for the Vet rod. Feels pretty good. Have you fished one?

Very nice

Casting performance of a spinning guide train lies in the reduction guides. The micros have little to do with it. As I'm sure you're aware, rod, line, lure and conditions all play a role in casting as well.

All the SC3 st croixs are nice rods. The reels are all well built. Comes down to features, preferences and deals. As for the friends advice, smile nod your head then check here.

If you're sending it in just note on the work order and I'll check while it's open.

Check a schematic but off the top of my head I don't think there are any bushings in that reel.

Like any tool they can have their time and place. I disagree with the straight fall reason though. I don't see the falling bait pulling line off one of these much easier than with a good casting reel and certainly not a spinning reel.

If you start targeting big largemouth and throwing big bass bugs you'll want to step up to an 8wt. You can buy a tapered leader and finish it with a tippet if needed. You can make your own by stepping down gradually with lengths of different tests.

Whatever one you use any other time. The Tat doesn't have any special requirements in that regard. For baitcaters in general 40# power pro handles well and priced reasonably

Aiming a cast is like throwing, all about release point. Thumb pressure varies throughout the cast. You need to get a feel for it. It will come with practice.