Rumslo

Not all spinnerbaits are created equal. I always test my baits in the swimming pool to make certain that they work properly. Blades spin freely, lure tracks correctly, skirts have good action at various retreive speeds. I will also test the sink rate. I tend to use willow blades on shallow runners and colorado blades on slow rollers or deeper presentations. Even with everything tuned right, the fish will decide what they want. Try different retreive speeds, tempos, colors, till you find what works.

For me, a lot depends upon the type of bottom/cover I'm fishing. Sandy, rocky bottom I will most likely be on a M/F spinning set-up. For heavy laydowns, grass, etc. I am going to go to a MH power with baitcaster.

I tried them but didn't care for the extra bulk. Also the softer versions seemed to drag and snag on clothing.

Boats don't catch fish, anglers do. Sure a big boat gets you there faster, but then you just slow down. Nice job on recreating a good fishin' boat. Some portable electronics and experience will get you lots of big 'uns.

A friend and I were float fishing on the Colorado River in the early evening, just starting to darken. We heard what sounded like a train car coupling, and in the distance could see the bow of a boat sticking out of the water. Motored over to help what turned out to be two inebriated fellows clinging to the bottom of there capsized boat. Seems they decided to take a leak, at the same time, from the same side of the boat. Funny what alcohol does to the mind.

I basically agree with Hooligan, though would also add the consideration of the IM rating of a rod. The construction material of a rod will have significant affect on the "power/action" of that rod.

Jelly Fish

My choice of line, or line and leader, depends on the cover I'm fishing. Though I prefer fluoro alone, I will use braid w/fluoro leader in heavy cover.

My first choice would be a spinnerbait in white, second shad.

First not all medium action rods are the same. Rod power and action will vary from rod to rod. I have three medium power rods and use each differently. Line will also make a big difference. I use an 8# flouro, 8# braid and 10# braid. Try some different combinations to find what works best for your setups.

Do you have two sonar units. The vertical lines look alot like a second sonar reflection.

I like to keep plastics in the original bag. I store the bags in bait binders (Cabelas TUB or Plano Worm Wrap). I can keep sticks in one bag, shakeys in another, etc. Easy to find, easy to get to bait, and not a lot of storage area lost in the boat.

I tend to stay with bone color in water with some riffle and clear on very still water. I would definitely use a leader and would chose line that fits the water you are fishing and the fish you expect to be fighting. 12 to 15# should work OK, I use a 12# on 15 or 20# braid.

Wacky is a great technique. But don't assume if you don't get bit on the wacky rig, the fish are not biting. What you offer is important, but also how you offer is equally important. Give the fish what they want, how they want it and you will catch every time.

Duckett's are great rods. I particularly like the micro guides. My only dislike (and it is just personal preference), the longer rods have a little to whippy tip for me.