Delaware Valley Tackle

x2

Tie on the new line with a uni/uni knot or something similar and spool up from there like Raul suggested.

I prefer an o-ring and palomar or improved clinch knot, but have used the rapala style loop knot without issue. (when tied correctly)

If you're treating yourself, maybe consider something custom? For example: 7'6" St Croix ML/F SC V (Legend Elite & Extreme Grade) Micro guides Minima Reel Seat Marbled split grip Personalized inscription Great price PM if you'd like to discuss. Mike

Dan, Thank you for the endorsement! My goal is always for my service to exceed expectations. As you can see, the replies to your thread for the most part echo my sentiments from our recent conversation. The Revo's respond especially well to a proper cleaning and lube and probably doesn't need a full blown super tune. We will, as always, thoroughly inspect the entire reel and make recommendation before performing any additional work. Also, the STX has a much better drag in many opinions than the Premier, but some still prefer the Carbontex washers over stock and they are relatively inexpensive. As for bearings, you have experience with the OS Ceramics and know what you are getting. I'm happy to install them for you. Some of us are tackle enthusiasts as much as if not more than fishermen. Does a new STX need different bearings? No. Does a new Corvette need an aftermarket exhaust? No. But some do it. To each his own. Thanks & Tight Lines! Mike

MSRP $70 Sounds like an ok deal if it's in decent shape. Not a steal, but not a rip either.

When bank fishing I try to use some stealth in approaching the water. My best fish all last year came off a stump sticking out from the bank into the water about this time of year. I catch quite a few pitching to cover right on bank just like you would from a boat only approaching from an angle on the bank.

Great post. Looks like a good time was had by all.

I believe an o'shaughnesy hook has no offset, but the bend has slight angles to it as opposed to a round bend.

x2 You took the words right out of my mouth.

If you find any rip-rap or rocks, try a small deep diving crank even in shallow water and really bang it off the rocks. Consider tubes as an option to grubs. Top water: jitter-bugs and Heddon Tiny Torpedo. In-line spinners in pink/black/white. Hair jigs. Small creature baits with lots of legs to imitate helgies.

x2 Med or Med-Lt/fast in chosen length

IMO ML/F length in either length, 7' is my personal preference.

The centrifugal brake comes into play as the spool gains speed at the beginning of the cast. The magnetic brake slows the spool at the end of the cast to control over run when the lure hits the water. If the line is billowing off the spool as the weight drops I would look at the rod. It sounds like the line is dragging on the guides. Run a q-tip around the inside of each guide feeling for rough spots. If they seem OK, treat the guides and line with KVD or Reel Magic. Also turn the magnetic brake off while setting the spool tension knob. Start with nice easy casts and work your way up gradually backing off the brakes and spool tension. Hope this helps. Mike

If that ring has dried up and cracked, chances are the rest of the reel would benefit from a thorough once-over.

I'm not sure whether you're referring to the friction ring behind the rotor or something else. Whatever the case, I don't suggest running any reel with missing parts. If you'd like to send it in, I'll clean it up and diagnose the problem and we can take it from there. Visit us here:http://www.delawarevalleytackle.com/. You can also PM or call 973-459-2835. Mike

Some like that reel for crankbaits and big muskie spinners. A MH/Mod rod might be a good choice. MSRP is $84.99

Yup, sounds like grease/water contamination.

Assuming all the parts are there, you should be able to have it reassembled locally (Mike's is up there) for less than the cost of a replacement. As suggested, you can use it or sell and buy something else. I can't see just chucking it.

U40 cork seal won't change the color of the cork but might put a slight sheen to it. It also feels a little different. Other than that, rinse and dry it after fishing and clean with Mr Clean Magic Eraser as needed. Pits can be filled with Honey Oak color wood filler and sanded smooth.

Welcome...My sister lived in Milton. Now in Swanton. I visit when I can and fish Champlain with my brother-in-law.

Welcome...I'm formerly from CNY, east of Utica. Enjoy the site.

PM me what you want for the Ambassador

There's a difference between what can be done vs. what needs to or should be done. The Citica is a fine reel especially at the price point. If you want to have little extras done during routine/annual maintenance the additional cost would be minimal. If the point of the original post is to decide if the Citica is a good buy, I would have to say yes.

Some guys chum the water before fishing. They'll use slingshot rigs to toss chum creating a scent trail leading to within casting distance. For chum and bait mix kool aid powder with the bran flake balls mentioned earlier. Cheese and corn also work.