Delaware Valley Tackle

Drop shot is really just a terminal rig. If you're vertical jigging , depth , cover and fish size factor into Rod power choice. A ml is more appropriate in most cases I encounter. Since you're not loading the Rod for long casts you can use a weight above the ratings safely and still have the lite bite detection and presentation of a lighter power Rod. The XF action is nice for reel setting the hook but either will work.

Keep an eye on that levelwind if was loose for long the pawl and or worm may have been worn some.

All casting reels have an anti reverse. Most use a one way roller clutch. What you may be thinking of is a lews model that uses the old style ratchet and dawg mechanical AR. Not sure if it's the model you mentioned or not. The theory is for the AR to have some hesitation to "give the fish time to eat the bait". I don't ascribe to the theory personally.

I don't know if fenwick rolls their own blanks. A blank of similar action could be sourced I'm sure. Rebuilding or modifying a handle can be done without too much trouble but building from scratch is probably easier for a newbie.

sorry I didn't read your post correctly. Spin cast problems can sometimes be corrected by re-spooling. Other than that it's hard to say without seeing it

It's really personal preference. About the only real mechanical advantage is a low ratio / ipt reel for deep cranking and even then there are differing opinions and preferences.

Most likely brake noise as suggested.

The mojo now uses sc III like the avid and rage a big change from the sc I I.

Missing or damaged shims. If the shim is dimpled flip it over for a temporary fix

It kinda depends on conditions but 16' and deeper is where you'll probably feel too light of a Rod get mushy and a reel with more torque is easier.

Don't switch, add. Becoming proficient with different types of tackle is part of the fun and provides options.

A number of people make the choice to hold the Rod with their dominant hand and reel with the other.

There are bushing that may be replaced with bearings but some of the old bushing reels casted surprisingly well.

All I have on it is a one bearing, 5:1, line capacity of around 125 yards of 12 # test. Sometimes favored as a flipping reel.

There's no industry standard for Rod powers or other specs. Trial and error will always be the best.

They're all well built but the Daiwa probably fits the application best. The breaking system is simple but unique and effective.

Most likely one of those will fit. Pick the one that slides on easily with no slop.

If you like Revos, lews, or PQ reels you'll like the Pflueger.

Mf action is my preference. Power wise, lure weight range and cover dictate.

I agree with the assessment of MHX hi mods as compared to "high end " blanks but I'm not impressed by NFC. For the price I'd pick an SCV, c4 Rodgeeks or K2. I still see the MHX hm as a little more than value blank though. Same with Rainshadow immortal and e2. At the end of the day there's a blank for most every need and budget.

The elite pro are nice blanks. Kind of a beefed up high modulus to stand up to the rigors of tournament fishing.

Rod geeks now has custom painted seats to match their custom colors. They may have something .

Yes it's the reduced weight. Better balance , crisper feel and more sensitive.

Priority mail in pvc is my default. Over 8' UPS over their limit drop it off or have it picked up. For lighter pvc ask for central vacuum pipe.

The forum member price is $19.80 plus shipping and you get a full deep cleaning. If you haven't had the reel apart it's likely just dirty.