Darren.

1000 Stradics are my spinning reels of choice for bass fishing. As for changing out the T knob, yes, you can. I was going to put a link up to the spare parts page at fish.shimano.com, but their site has changed and I can't find it for the life of me.

Never. All of my spinning reels have excellent drags.

Good call. I've seen both episodes (past), couldn't remember specifics, only that it was familiar.

I think that's a clip from Jeremy Wade's show where he caught one of these Wels kitty kats.

Yeah, that thing could munch on a human.

This is an absolute monster fish! Jeremy Wade, where are you? Larry D? https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/5749689/angler-reels-in-monster-20st-catfish-as-big-as-a-shark-in-italy-after-battling-for-45-minutes-to-reel-it-in/

Then I'd opt for the 30. Look around for a mount. I found mine at a local Tru Value. Do use stainless hardware if you can. Mine is mod'd to use my foot pedals for steering. And I bought a separate (this past fall) PWM controller so that instead of 5 speeds up, 3 back I get infinite up and back. Set me back for less than $100. Worth the $, IMO.

I run a 30lb MinnKota on my Ultimate 12. 300lb weight limit, I believe. I downsized the battery to a 35AH that only weighs 26lbs from an 85AH that weighed about 60 pounds or whatever. It was so heavy. Anyhow, dunno rules for your area, but you'll be fine with a 30. The only issue I have, ok, 2 issues, with the Torqueedo are the reports that it is much noisier, and second, the price. But I'd love one anyhow, it's just they're as expensive as a kayak. If you're a DIYer the 30 is the way to go. Mine is similar in design to a BassYak.

Welcome aboard, Blaine! This is a frequently discussed topic on the forums. You might do a search as there is a ton of info there. That said, $600, I'd look for a used kayak, or a demo model from Native Watercraft, Wilderness Systems, Feelfree, etc. Hit up Craigslist in your area. I'd also look for a Sit On Top which has an open body as opposed to being closed in. Some here use sit in models. When considering your $600, are you including the $ you need for a PFD and a paddle? There's another $200 give or take on quality there. Whichever you choose, don't skimp on a PFD. Your life is at stake. And a cheap paddle is often heavy. Which means you will get tired quicker...Been there myself.

I think about my leader - is it nicked? Run fingers over each setup. Retie if needed. I do not change leaders every time I go out as it is not needed.... Usually will do this the night prior to going out, but I still double check when on the water. Then I think about where I wanna start fishing.

Welcome aboard!

Favorite? Sometimes depends on what time of year. But overall, two: Wacky rig and Ned rig.

No, have not fished those rivers. Don't get to fish much outside my local waters, unfortunately... The fish in my avatar was 6.6lbs and citation length! Caught in Lee Hall Reservoir, Newport News. Caught a lot of bass there over 6 pounds.

Welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard, fellow yak fisherman!

Well said, @Dorado. Well said.

Welcome aboard!

Holy Cow that's a HOG!! A dream come true for that guy. Me? I'll keep dreaming

Sweet catch!!

Welcome aboard! That's a "merp" bass. http://bassblaster.rocks/derp-merps-of-the-week-angry-dudes-break-down-your-flip I'd put the weight at a guestimated 2.5 pounds.

Really nice paint work!

Hi Chris! Welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard! No experience with watching a tourney (other than on TV), so can't really help. But enjoy your time! Plenty here have been to tourneys, so advice a comin'.

Yes, the longer the yak, the more this can be an issue. In my 12' yak it really isn't *too* much an issue, but there have been times when I stage my rods and they hang over the bow a few inches. A bit more stretch is required to get around them.

Welcome aboard! Another 1969er! My sweet spot is 5'9" - 6' with 6'6" being my max. Just prefer shorter rods. I'm more accurate and don't usually worry about distance fishing out of a kayak.