hmongkidBee

I have a 2019 compass with the sidekicks and from my experience the sidekicks make the rig seriously stable IF you configure them to actually rest on the water. If I'm making a huge trek from one area to another, then I will move the sidekicks to a higher position to not impede the speed I get. Anyways, back to your question, imo the compass and outback are relatively the same stability-wise. If you're standing up to fish a lot, it would feel uneasy but that's where the sidekicks come in. With the sidekicks mounted, the stability is superb on any hobie kayak. If you want more deck space, get the pro angler. I would lean towards the pro angler if I was you because of your height. I'm 5'5 and I bought the compass due to its lightweight (65lbs unrigged) so I can cartop it on my suv. My buddy drives a 2012 honda civic and he car tops his pro angler 14 with the rhino rack kayak roof rack. I hope this helps. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any further questions.

I never paid too much attention to the hindrance that the rudder causes so that's definitely good to know. Thanks for the info IgotWood.

I would like to chime in on this because I'm considering buying the new hobie compass or bonafide ss127. I don't understand why you just can't use a paddle to turn the hobie also? The way I see it, the mirage drive allows you to travel farther distances with the pedals and you can also control it with the paddle. Am I crazy to believe that aside from the price, it's a no-brainer to go with the hobie?

That seems to be a quality control issue right there. Like Grantman83 said, contact kistler regarding this.

Here's my take on your options. I haven't bought or used a LDC customs swimbait rod yet so I can't comment on their action, but some people love them. I have quite a lot of experience with the dobyns swimbait rod line namely the 795ml and the 807magheavy swimbait rod. I've also used the okuma guide select models as well. In your case, most of the baits that you listed range from a little over 1oz to maybe 2-3oz max. Therefore I highly recommend you get the dobyns 795ml rod. The one thing that dobyns rods have is that soft tip action that helps you launch baits quite well actually. On a side note, the lunker punker topwaters can be cast on almost ANY rod out there as it is a phenomenal casting bait. However, for general purpose duties like what you plan to use for, go with the dobyns 795ml rod. You won't be disappointed. I know I wasn't. If you want to save quite a bit of money, I recommend you check out the okuma guide select rods. In my opinion they are definitely the BEST BANG for the buck when it comes to chucking swimbaits. They're not the lightest rods, but they will get the job done. Hopefully, this helps you a little bit. Feel free to message me if you would like to discuss about this further. I'm sure other SWIMBAITERS on this site will chime in with their opinion as well.

It's very good that you realized it. I, myself, have used the 6lb and 8lb tatsu and I can attest to its sensitivity that FAR surpasses other flourocarbon lines that I've tried. I've pulled fish from cover with the 6lb tatsu so I know for sure this line can stand up to abuse. Also, best casting flourocarbon line out there by far.

you're referring to these guys right: https://www.lastchancetackle.com/ If so, they're legit. Their store is located close to the infamous Diamond Valley Lake in California. Their prices are decent, and they're willing to help you out with any questions you may have.

What is the water clarity?

I bought the DVD and did not like the movie one bit. To be honest I really thought it was a waste of money. But that is just my opinion. "Southern Trout Eaters" is a way better movie that you can learn a great deal from.

The best part about them is that every single one of them will have the same consistency. I really love them. Almost everyone who fishes here in the west coast has tried (and treasured) these roboworms.

I'd actually would highly recommend that you throw a "RAT" topwater bait instead of the frog. If the frogs in your area are brown then go with a brown colored rat topwater like the koppers live target rats. It's just something different that the bass might not be accustomed to. Usually when they're not accustomed to something, you can probably catch the biggest fish in that pond. You never know until you try. Good luck with your decision.

That is one of the best reels out there. It can be used for anything and will last forever as long as you maintain it. Most guys use it for throwing swimbaits and it excels at it.

I'd much rather get the cumara rods. It seems that you are referring to the new Cumara A series which essentially is made from the old Cumulus blank which means you get a more sensitive rod for a cheaper price. If I was you, there is no comparisons between the new cumara rods or the phenix recon.

I'm actually not a big fan of these. I love how they copy the megabass lure body, BUT for some reason the quality is terrible. I purchased three of the new ones and when they came in, one of them had a GIANT split ring in the front and I was like I don't understand. Then I took them out fishing and the two baits that actually had the regular size split ring would slowly FLOAT UP onto the surface while the one with the giant split ring would suspend. I sent them an email and got no response. Terrible company to deal with. Last I'll ever use of these baits.

great catch.