Mike L

It happens to all of us regardless of experience or equipment. If we knew how many bass sucked it in and blew it out and never felt a thing….. Never mind I don’t want to know. Mike

When I first responded to this in May I mentioned that it increased what I give to my boaters… Now I feel that I need to increase again Mike

Ditto I tie a snell for all bottom presentations regardless of the bait. Regarding the video, I completely agree. I read somewhere that a 3/0 hook was recommended for a Senko which fir me is way to small for exactly the reasons given. I always use a 4/0 ewg and works for me. As far as overall hook size, I almost always use a hook that some would think to large for the application. Mike

It’s not that big. 10lbs max Mike

Considering all types I’d say once they’re on the hook I’ll land about 90%. The other 10% I’ll blame not monitoring my hook sharpness enough or just playing them wrong which is more prevalent on moving baits. The largest differential is between frog’s and t rigged plastics. Since I changed what I throw I’ll get 70% of frog hits and over 90% of plastics. Mike

The middle squares are the best part! You can lick your fingers for a 1/2 hr and still taste it! ? Mike

Good for you!! Nice and easy, one step at a time. Mike

Big girls are opportunistic and lazy. Most will not run around all day looking for a small shad to munch on. As others have said they want a big meal. Mid day during the summer they can get pretty predictable in where they hang out. Deep, under and in cover. A big jig, big worm or a creature bait dragged or worked slowly and methodically through the heaviest cover in shallow lakes, along with a big crank in structure filled deep water. Mike

I use my 843C once in a while for lighter chatters, top waters etc. Every time I do I question my intelligence for using it for moving baits, Instead of taking advantage of it being the most sensitive and well made rod I own. Mike

Ditto Mike

Yep Mike

Cloud formation Mike

Exactly right! Fishing down here you learn quick what it takes if your goal is to land a PB with each presentation. I use 80# braid on my punch setup that I only make flip’s or moderate pitches with. Even with a locked drag my thumb is ready for any slip that may occur. Everything must work together in unison, and I’m not just talking about the rod and reel. Mike

Wow Is that not the coolest thing!! My nephew followed that same path all the way to the 7th pick overall in the MLB draft after breaking every hitting record at his Division 1 school. I know first hand the commitment, work and sacrifice it takes to reach the pinnacle of an athletes career. I wish James the absolute greatest of success and good health in his career. And to continue for many years to make himself and your family proud. Mike

I wish you the very best. Keep the faith Brother, Mike

Just because he was in the front of the boat certainly doesn’t automatically mean he should have caught more. In my opinion it’s more likely the difference was in entry, cast angle, presentation and bite detection. Mike

I bought that rod to replace a Siera 735C for frogs and paddle swim baits. I was concerned that the much faster action was gonna be a problem but it really wasn’t. Kinda surprised at that as it loads and locks up quicker as you said. Mike

I grew up drinking Anisette (an Italian liqueur) we imported from Sicily. We would have it at every holiday and family function until I gave up drinking years ago. Also, as I said before it’s the main ingredient in my home made fish “scent” Mike

Over the years I whittled down my arsenal to only those I know I will need, given the way I like to fish and the waters I’m fishing. I have a deep diving composite combo that I only bring if fishing a tournament out of state. Mike

I remember Al! He was always ready to help anyone with anything. Mike

I use the double wide exclusively in late spring to early fall. The regular size only in the winter months. Mike

I wanted to do the same as you when I retired in ‘14. The first thing I did was to fish in a few local club and charity tournaments. I don’t own a boat so I entered as a co angler. From there I wanted to travel more so we bought a motor home which allowed me enter a few State and Regional Trails. I started fishing the TBF, then entered a few B.A.S.S. Nations and the BFL which I’m still doing. After some success at the State and Regional level at both, I wanted more. From there a few Opens and finally got invited to fish the Toyota Series. One thing, it can get very expensive and the competition level as you “move up” gets tougher and tougher. I’ve been fortunate to have a few local and Nationally known sponsors that cover some of the costs but it took a few years I’m not saying the route I’m taking is ideal, the point is to start locally and if you get the itch, move on up from there. One thing… The greatest learning experience I ever got was as a Marshall for the Elites. After 2 back surgeries I slowed down a bit but still Marshall when I can. Best of luck to you Mike

Ditto I also don’t care for the ones that the same answer is given over and over by more than one poster. Mike

@Oregon Native Rest In Peace Gary I Miss You my Friend Mike