Mike L

Rage Bug or Sweet Beaver. Mike

I gotta believe they were using what they thought they needed too based on the depth and conditions they were fishing in. If not in open water down here I use either 80# or 50# braid and 12, 14, 16 or 20# flouro. Also, my weights will range from 1 1/2oz to 3/16 oz, again depending on what and where I’m throwing. I think they’re using what they need to. Mike

I always swim and/or pitch them as a stand along bait. I’d rather use something else as a trailer. When swimming I usually use a 3/16, when pitching, whatever’s needed to get through what I’m pitching into. I never swim them weightless as I think you don’t get the full effect of the tail unless being used on top. Mike

Cardboard box. Mike

Agree I don’t know what it is. Doubt if water temp is the reason but I really can’t say, but worms and creatures always out perform jigs for me also. Mike

Are you using your thumb to control the spool?? The lure should be in the opposite hand as the rod, even with the reel. When you release the lure raise the rod up and then immediately place your thumb on the spool which should be disengaged. The weight of the lure and how hard you swing your rod up will determine the distance. If you don’t control the line coming off you will get what you’re seeing. When you get experience you won’t have to hold the lure anymore, just swing it out to hit your spot. Your thumbs muscle memory will automatically take over Mike

Popping frog in the cheese and a magnum UV sped worm has been all I’ve needed for awhile now. Mike

Same as you.. 10” Curltail possibly by Zoom 7.5” Ribbontail (Fat Max) by Culprit. Mike

Contrary to a lot of opinions Switching hands is a non factor for a lot of people including me. My switch is done before the lure hits the water. Yes, I tried reeling with my left hand once which lasted almost 30 seconds. There are about a dozen threads on here about left handed reels for right handed people and right handed reels for left handed people. It always comes down to the same conclusion...Try them both and use what is most comfortable for you. Mike

Culprit Fat Max ribbon tail and Rage Bug. Mike

I tend to use fairly thick plastic most of the time. I can’t remember the last time I threw a trick worm and have no intention of using a Ned rig. With that in mind I only use a Trokar or Gamakatsu ewg depending on where I’m throwing. Mike

The problem is the egg sinker. Being shaped the way it is, it has a tendency to did into the bottom as you pull. Think about it. When fishing in the type of structure you are sometimes it’s unavoidable. In those areas I use a round sinker which will roll or deflect off what it hit‘s instead of digging in. Only other option is to change to a more vertical presentation. Mike

Scum Frog, original and trophy series. Mike

I Love it when that happens! I’m sure you were the topic of conversation and a few colorful metaphors were directed your way. ?? Mike

Glad to hear!! Mike

If you would have changed you probably wouldn’t have gotten bit again. I learned a long time ago there really isn’t a “correct or wrong” way to use a lure. There are recommended, suggested and “if it catches a fish it’s the only way” Mike

Great Job Kid!! Mike

It sure is!! When those morons killed every blade of grass which destroyed the spawn areas back in the 90’s they learned. By controlling the hydrilla now instead of trying to kill it which killed everything else, the chain came back especially Little Harris. If I remember right, the back of the canals where the insecticides didn’t reach were really the only areas that a decent bag could be had. I remember boats being stacked in there. Also, when they planted reeds and stopped trying to artificially control the water levels they all came back. it took 25 yrs but it worked. Mike

Didn’t know any of that. I learned something today! Thanks Roger Mike

Sure There's a few in So Cental Fla that have a “dink only” or “too overgrown” or “local only” reputation, and a few others The reasons could be what you mentioned or they are trophy lakes so the word spreads from locals who don’t want the real conditions to get out. It takes time to really figure out a lake regardless of its size or conditions. I’ve fished Okeechobee for over 30 yrs and there are areas that I know hold fish year round or only when the weather changes or only in specific seasons etc. and some I stay away from all together. I also know people who swear there isn’t a fish in the whole lake! I personally have fished most of the “bad rep” lakes and can honestly say have never been skunked. Disappointed a few times but never what’s advertised. Don’t listen to anybody. Fish it using your high confidence baits in likely areas. You may surprise yourself. Mike

Got it. I think Maybe it’s black and the guides are painted white??.. Mike

What the heck is that?? ? Mike

Congratulations! Good Job! Mike

Ditto Mike

I really don’t change things up much anymore. After years of experimenting and change, I for the most part just use what I’ve had success with and more importantly have confidence in. Every once in while I’ll read about something here that folks talk about that sounds good and consider changing, but when it comes down to it, there really isn’t anything I’m not satisfied with. Mike