throwback

I just purchased a used Diawa Exceler that already had Spiderwire Ultracast Flouro-Braid 30# test on it. This is my first decent baitcast reel and I've been learning how to use a baitcast reel with this setup. I practice everyday in the pond behind my house and yesterday I was casting far and accurately, at will, with no backlashes. I was really pleased, and if you have seen any of my previous threads, I'm new to all this. I have actually caught a couple of small bass with different lures just casting from shore. When I start going out on my boat though, and getting into bass fishing more, I'm wondering what type of applications this braided line is best for?

This is one of the coolest threads around. I have a 10-ft Bass Hunter, which is a lot like the Bass Raider. Actually, mine is the Stalker II version seen here. http://www.basshunter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7&Itemid=0 All the ideas I've read from you guys are great! I have a bulkhead drain between the pontoons that is about 2-3". Would that be a good place for a transducer? Maybe I should get one of those rudders and mount the transducer to the rudder or the trolling motor.

That is how I cook speckled sea trout.

I need some ideas for recipes for small bass. I've never eaten what I'd call a great largemouth bass. I've eaten some that were less than ordinary. Maybe bass sushi or sashimi...... HELP!

I'm fortunate to live in a neighborhood that has about six big ponds (they range from 10-20 acres) that are well stocked with bass, crappie, and bluegill. I have fishing/boating access to all of them. Each pond is a little different and has better fishing for certain species. The pond I live on has big bass and a lot of crappie. However, although I see some lunkers, mostly I see and catch small bass. I've read here, and been told several times that I need to catch and eat the small bass. I can handle that. I ain't keeping any big ones. What is a good rule to go by on size to release?

So the little duolock snap thingys work? What type of bait do you NOT use a snap with? I like changing lures a lot without having to tie a knot each time.

I've noticed most anglers tie baits directly on. I grew up using swivels, but I've started tieing lures on. Do swivels really impede lure performance and scare fish?

Is this the one you guys are talking about? http://www.harborfreight.com/600-lb-capacity-boat-trailer-with-8-inch-wheels-and-tires-5002.html

I bought a used LH reel. Gonna try it before I drop $$$ on a nice one.

That is what I'm thinking.

Thanks. Makes sense to me....

I'm right-handed, and I use a left handed retrieve on a spinning reel. I have a right-handed baitcaster I'm using, but I'm considering a lefty because I think it may work better for me. Any insight on this from those of you that toss a lot more baits then i do?

Good stuff all. I live on a several-acre pond, so I can beat the water a lot with practice. I really want to master the baitcaster.

Thanks everybody. Good tips all. I may have line that is too light as well. It is 10 lb Trilene XL. Never heard about the braided line being better. I believe I've got to stop trying to really rip one out there and stick to smooth, more controlled casts. I'm not sure what part of the backlash to pick at with a hook.

Trying to learn to cast a baitcaster. I toss about 10, conservative (yet backlash-free casts) and I try to rip one and I get a backlash. Happens a lot. I saw a video of a guy getting the backlash out of his baitcasting reel by putting his thumb on the line and cranking, then pulling the line until it stops, then cranking with the thumb down again and pulling it out. He makes it look easy. I tried it and it didn't work as well for me. I'm determined to get these backlashes out without cutting out new line to do it. I'm open to any and all techniques that don't require line surgery. I'm gonna practice the thumb/crank trick some more too.

Thanks!

So I can use it for something. Thanks!

Thanks all. Gives me some ideas.

Just purchased the Pinnacle Platinum Plus LC100C baitcasting reel at Wal Mart. It got it to learn to use a baitcasting reel, but soon I'm gonna get a new set-up from BPS with a BP Pro Qualifier or Shimano Citica. Just eager to get some casting practice. I've read some decent stuff about these reels. Are they pretty good?

Thanks. I wonder if they just sell the trailer..... Looking into them now....

Well I've got a medium action Ugly Stik that is 5'6". Someone gave it to me. It is new, and I'm trying to figure out what reel to put on it.

What are the short (less than 6-ft) rods used for?

Thanks! Been looking at BPS combos. I have a BPS about 1 hr away.

Thanks. I mean't I'm getting my boy(7) interested in fishing.

Are there trailers for those little Bass Raider pontoon boats? I'd like one that I could hook up to my 4-wheeler.