Delaware Valley Tackle

x2 good advice

Simple Green (and generic equivalents) is an environmentally friendly cleaner/degreaser and is commonly used by almost every professional reel tech I know. All of the folks I know in this business are environmentally conscious and practice responsible handling of products and waste. I don't personally know the person you referenced but would be glad to answer any questions about my own practices.

IMO the benefit of carbon fiber graphite over fiberglass is the strength to weight ratio. Scrims, resins and processes all factor in as well to put together a high performance rod. If the end result is a more powerful blank at a lower weight, it stands to reason that the recovery speed and hence the ability to transmit feel will improve. "Sensitivity" as well as "balance" are two terms that are over thought, they are part, but only part, of the big picture and are subjective. Perception is reality and each persons perception is different from the next. Long story short, you are right that claims of im proved sensitivity are to a degree unprovable and can be considered puffing by manufacturers.

Make sure the AR sleeve is installed right-side up (I think the fat side is the top facing the spool).

I throw pretty much anything <3/8 oz or <10lb line on spinning tackle. This would include my smallest cranks and tiny traps.

Don't get into the habit of switching hands if you haven't already. Lefty reels are not all that hard to find. Hold out for what you want.

The Smallmouth designation is just marketing the same as any other technique specific label. I think the smallmouth refernence pertains to the lighter powers predominant in the lineup due to the smaller baits and lighter line typically thrown at smallies.

The lure weight ratings on a rod refer to the weight required to load the rod properly for efficient casting. Exceeding the rating by a large degree on either end can make keeping contact with the bait difficult but doesn't affect sensitivity as it is normally traditionally thought of in term of detecting bites.

IMO this is another example of the confidence in your tackle having a psychological affect on your concentration. Competitive fishing is 90% in the head and instinct. A lot of these guys are so organized they border on OCD, which works in their favor apparently. Years ago when we raced dirt bikes, 6 of us had the exact same make, model and size of bike and when we would switch with each other, we all HATED the other 5. No 2 felt the same. To some extent, I see the same with reels that I own and work on. Each has its own personality to some degree so I see no need to have identical setups laying around. Not mention, It's hard enough to explain to the wife why you need more than one "pole" lol, it'd be harder if they were all the same.

For deep cranking the specific cranking reels like the Winch, are worth the extra IMO. Beyond that the STX is only a few dollars more and worth it just for the added braking. The SX is a fine reel if you can deal with the mag only breaking.

x2 - The head on that screw is fine and easy to strip. Make sure you use the right size screwdriver and don't let it slip.

Has anyone fished this and a Biffle Hardhead? They seem similar but this rig looks like the bait would have even more free action.

A snap swivel is probably a weaker link than a split ring. A Duo Lock with a swivel added might be safer.

Sticky clutch is something I see somewhat often in BPS reels. A good cleaning and lube usually takes care of it. Depending on where the noise is coming from, cleaning may or may not help. Some reels are so over lubed they are actually a little louder after being cleaned and freed up. This is fine with me since I'd rather have the performance but it really bothers some folks.

The oem oils are fine. The fact that that you are maintaining the equipment is far more importatnt than lube brand.

A modern, quality 2(or more) piece blank with built in ferrules is plenty sensitive and durable. Totally a matter of convenience. Power and action variance between the same blank in one or two piece is negligible in most cases.

A bobby pin cut off right at the bend leaves a hook that is thin enough and won't straighten out too easily. You can use to work it out like RM said.

I look forward to meeting you!

Try here: http://www.tackleworks.org/ What do you need done? A small tackle shop might be able to do a simple guide replacement etc.

In certain designs getting the spring tension right on a bail spring can be challenging to put it lightly. The shematic will show the parts and basic orientation but you'll have to study the mechanics carefully to see which way will put the tension on the spring when the bail is opened.

Orange County Bassmasters out of Middletown, NY is now accepting new members, especially boaters. They are a friendly and welcoming club that fishes 10 draw format tournaments per season in NY and Ct waters. Entry fees are included in the low annual dues. Monthly meetings are held in the Lodge Room at Gander Mtn in Middletown the next ones being at 7:15 pm on 3/7 & 4/4. Prospective members are invited to any regular meeting. Reply to post, PM or Email with any questions.

Forgive my ignorance!

In fact, it's an umbrella rig. Lets all start using the proper term and stop giving this lady free advertising. While we're at it lets call a drop shot an Oneida rig, and copyright that too while we're doing Texas and Carolina.

I've handle them but not fished with them. The alleged distance robbing friction of a line guide eye is being overblown IMO as is the importance of casting distance. They seem solid enough but not as refined as more popular offerings. I'd like to hear from someone as well with on the water experience with these.

Southwestern Parts and Service show BNT1507 for $36.05.