Delaware Valley Tackle

If you're interested in a custom I'll make you a good deal and you can pick components. That SR705 blank's not a bad choice for a crankin' stick.

If this is your first attempt at a project like this, I'd recommend splitting the cork that's on it. The other way is much more involved to be done right.

Tiny Torpedos have to be my #1 top water lure for smallies. The Black and the clear ones work best on the Juniata in my area. The worst, is the silver one with a blue head. I could throw that into a pool of smallies and they won't even look at it x2 on the tiny torpedo.

If you'd like to send it I'll get you up and running. 10% discount for forum members. http://www.delawarevalleytackle.com/ Mike

That isn't really possible as WD40 isn't really a solvent. The petroleum distillates used to make the oil in WD-40 spray-able is why it cuts grease. I don't recommend this due to the inability to control where the spray goes. You don't want this anywhere near your bearings. There is no substitute for a complete tear-down when cleaning a reel.

I find that micros do require closer spacing and 1-2 more guides when built on top, but still save weight and improve accuracy. A size 4 guide should pass a well tied uni or albright knot.

We're using Super-Lube grease on gears, TG's Yellow Rocket Fuel on bearings and Reel Ex on pivot points and sliding surfaces. I'm using automotive gear lube on the level wind. It stays put better than light oil and doesn't gum up like grease in an exposed application like that.

Can you be more specific as too what is "rough"? Hard cranking, gritty feeling, rough spots...? Are you flushing the bearings as part of your cleaning?

IMO you want a rod 7-7'6" for casting distance and hook-setting. Med or Med/Hvy power depending on the size baits and cover. The claimed power rating varies from brand to brand. You want something with some backbone to move fish. Med or Med/fast action. I like some sensitivity to feel cover and bottom composition but find pure, high modulus graphite a little too brittle for this application. A glass/graphite blend can get the best of both worlds.

Sounds like the line roller needs attention. See if it rolls freely with your finger. Give me a call/pm/email if you'd like to discuss in more detail. Mike

It's really hard to diagnose something without seeing it. Does the rattle occur only when the spool is spinning fast?Have you tried different mag settings to see if that makes any difference? Are there any other symptoms? Did this just start? You're welcome to give me a call if you'd like: 973-459-2835. Mike

PM sent. Thanks!

Be sure to get the guide re-wrapped eventually. The thread is what secures the guide in place. The epoxy is to protect the thread.

Pond & creek fishing will always be my favorite since that's how I started out as a kid. It brings back great memories. In addition, they are inexpensive to access and can be fished on a whim. Ponds are a great place to practice techniques that you can use on larger waters.

x2, You nailed it.

Med-Hvy/Fast is the most versatile setup for bass fishing techniques if you're limited to one or two setups.

I saw this suggestion in Field & Stream: a fabric softener drier sheet helps repel bugs. I wipe my face, hands and hat visor with one and then fold up the sheet inside my hat. It definitely helps minimize the swarming around my face. I combine this with DEET on my clothing.

Braid, or another low stretch line would probably compliment the generally soft action of the Ugly Stick.

Bah, Recoil guides suck Not if you like to hear your rod whistling when casting. I agree. Not a huge fan of the recs - much prefer micros. I'm not a fan either and they look cheap IMO. The only practical application I've found is where icing is an issue, like a steelie rod.

Very nice. Now go catch a big one!

Welcome, Jamie!

Welcome! It's always nice to see new folks start or return to fishing. Good luck & enjoy.

Welcome, Jordan from another NY native. Now in the Poconos fishing NY, NJ, CT and PA.

Welcome back, Sweewater. See ya on the boards!

Welcome,Eric. Enjoy the site!