Mike L

Same here in SW Fla... Mike

Doc... Check out the Phenix M1. I have the 7' 2" MH/F casting rod and the 7' 0" M/XF spinning and I can't put them down.. The M/XF spinning is perfect for all finesse techniques, to me it really shines for wacky and shakey fishing. The MH/F casting can be used for anything you want execpt flippin, punching or heavy spinners and jigs. By the way..Welcome Home, Be Well MIke

This ^^ I do the same...Don't get too concerned just because they're bigger than what you've thrown in the past. Most 10" - !2" worms appeal to larger fish but as Bill said all sizes will hit it. The only time I won't throw them is in cold water or used to punch. Mike

Agree I've had my ASR jig rod for years and wouldn't use another. Mike

I've had 3 different bags in the last year, 2 BPS Stalker, and a Cabellas [don't remember the model name] They were alright but I average 2 tournaments a month as a co-angler and really didn't like any of them. There was always something missing, or something in the wrong spot, or something else that was too big or too small for what I wanted. I now have a Flambeau AZ8 which to me is perfect. It's not too wide or too long which is just right for putting it between your legs when moving with the big motor on, or on the pedestal between the seats, on the passenger seat when fishing. It has the right size pockets in the right place, the right size tool and accessory pouches etc. Check it out, you may like it. If you think it's too tall, there are smaller versions also, the AZ6 and AZ4. Mike

4/0 or 5/0 like most others, but I've been useing Gammy's Skip Gap type lately and realy like those better. Mike

San Diego Jam Knot for all floro and/or co poly. Mike

Flag's flying... Jersey is a little tight but it's on... Fridge is full... Cigars's are laid out... Pasta's cooking... HEY I'm Ready... BEARS are ON!! Mike

7 ft MH/F Allstar ASR Abu 2nd gen Revo 20# Invisix floro Mike

Agree... MIke

I have 3 Johnson Century spinn cast reels that I've had for years.. 2 are the 40th anniversery models and 1 is an original 100 B [remember those!] that my Dad gave me when I was kid. It has the white thumb release button and single white reel handle, with L R reel switch. The pearl like little button on the handle is still there. I have it wrapped in a velvet bag from an old bottle of Crown Royal and kept in my sock drawer They're probably not worth much but I don't care. Mike

The Costa's with the 580 lens are amazing... .I've never owned a Strike King, or Wileys brand etc. so I can't help you with a comparison. But if I ever lose these I'm getting another pair, no desire to compare. Mike

When I'm by myself or with friends just putzing around thats all I do.. "Almost feels like hand to hand combat" pretty much sum's it up for me too. Fishing tournaments down here in Florida most every boater will end up fippin and pitchin at some part of the day also. Because of that most of my equipment is pretty much all Heavy and Med Heavy rated. Mike

I rarely tie a black/blue jig for swimming..Mostly for flippin. For swimming I've had the best luck down here with a multi colored blue gill skirt with a yellow and green twin tail grub for a trailer. Mike

Standard size...June Bug and Watermelon \ Mike

X2 Ever feed a bird? They ALLWAYS take off after they grab a bite. Mike

Frog First! Mike

No Whistleing on the boat! Never step on a boat with your left foot first! Mike

Phenix M1, Phenix M1. Phenix M1...No I didn't stutter I love these rods...Light, Strong, and as Sensitive as anything you can buy, and in your range. Mike

Yeah Buddy!! Mike

Mama would have said "Give it back Mikey!!" I Always listened to Mama.... Mike

6 each..20# braid to 12# floro. Mike

You're exactly right! Thats why I use reading glasses and have a magnifying glass as backup Mike

I use Norman speed clips for cranks....rarely throw in line spinners down here. As others have said tho, that would be the only time I would use a swivel. Mike

10# big game mono on one, and 12# yo zuri on another Mike