SausageFingers

I have an STX. Its been a great reel.

The Culprit worms are one of my favorite, specifically the Red Shad color.

Im right handed but throw left hand retrieve on all reels. I've tried both but a left hand retrieve feels more natural to me.

It depends on a lot of factors, the size of the pond being one. The size of the watershed contributing to the pond is probably more important.

Revo SX. I can't kill it. I've tried.

The Rage products are fantastic. The Space Monkey got me hooked and now it's the craw.

The Pro Qualifier's come in around $80. You can get them cheaper on sale or if you participate in the trade in at a store. They're a very solid reel and would be excellent for a beginner.

I've caught a bunch of fish this season on the 1.5 and 2.5 with stock hooks. Only had one toss it at the boat.

I was hesitant to jump into baitcasters also. Now, I cant get enough. My favorite setup is my Revo SX/Vendetta. I have an STX on a Vendetta as well.

Rage Craw in Falcon Craw, Bama Craw, or Watermelon Red Flake

x2. No one would be able to put any faith in their products. The company would fold.

Revo SX

XCalibur square bills. If its really skinny, the Manns Waker Elite.

Palomar

My personal favorite is the Fire Tiger Husky Jerk (HJ10). It produces for me.

I prefer bronze/amber. Its what works for me.

I havent found it yet but they do have Elite Series covergage on ESPN 2, Sunday mornings at 8 EST.

These are great baits. I prefer them over the Red Eyes. The square bills are very solid also.

My recent experience with a Veritas wasnt positive - the tip broke right above the second guide. Im hoping the replacement performs better but Im a little apprehensive after my first go round. For what its worth, Abu Garcia's support isn't terrible but it hasn't been the best either.

My personal preference is the Revo SX. Use whatever feels best to you. Both are quality options.

I have a couple of the Blue Gill 2.5's. They look just like the picture on TW. One of my local tackle shops says Strike King won't be able to ship him any of the square bills until late June, early July. It wouldnt surprise me if they farmed out the production to meet the demand.

I have a bunch of Strike King cranks, including some of the 1.5's. I havent experienced any of the rusting issues yet.