Missourifishin

I've caught big bass on a beetle spin. And even more on a road runner.

That's the plan I hadn't even hit a tree once all year, then boom, two trips in a row. Oh well, S#i+ happens.

Right. I thought I remembered hearing it decreased distance, but I couldn't remember why. Thanks guys!

Ok, the title of this topic is not the real question at all. The real question is... What are the disadvantages of using a bait caster that is only about halfway full of line? And how bad does it effect performance? After basically mastering (or so I thought) the use of a bait casting reel, I have had two very bad trips in a row. Last week I nailed a tree with a crank bait, and the backlash was so terrible that I ended up cutting all the line out. Well, like an idiot, I did it again today. This time, rather than removing all of the line, I cut until I got down to where it's not tangled, and I'm thinking about using it as it is, in order to not waste any more line. I'm just wondering how much of an impact that could have on my fishing, being no more than 50% full spool. Thanks. P.S. In case anyone was going to suggest using the "thumb trick" for backlashes, I already know it and have used it successfully. These 2 incidents with the trees have been too terrible for that to work though.

I don't eat bass often, but I'd rather eat a smaller one. I don't know what size tastes best. But I like to always let the big ones go to be caught another day, and also to keep breeding and passing on their big bass genetics to the next generation

^^^This!!! I'm sorry, but I don't see what the big deal is. All this talk of documentation, evidence, laws and bi-laws, etc sounds like a last resort to me. Where I'm from, if you have a little problem with your neighbor, you go and have a friendly talk with them. And that is often an easy and simple solution. Sure, there are a lot of people with out any sense, so it doesn't work 100% of the time. But try the easiest most straightforward solution first, and then start thinking of other courses of action.

I try squarebills in any conditions, and I've caught a lot of fish on them.

I wouldn't have a problem counting how many fish I catch on each lure, if I recorded it here each time I fished, although on a really good day my count might be off by about a fish or two. But I only weigh bass if my eyeball estimate tells me it's over 2 pounds, and I never measure them. I just hate having fish out of the water for very long at all. Even if it was my PB, it would quickly go and the scale, I'd snap maybe two pics and get it back in the water real quick. That being said, if I catch anything next week when I have time to fish, I'll try to remember to report the numbers.

I'm pretty sure it is. There are a handful of states that allow passengers (not the driver) to have open containers though. Edit: I just found an article online that said even drivers can have open containers in Montana. And another one that said Mississippi is the only state where the driver can have an open container. I've found a lot of conflicting information from my google searches on this subject. What's clear though, is that there can be open containers in the vehicle in some states. But driving while drunk is illegal in every state.

Like other posters have said, I have no problem with a guy drinking some beer during a day of fishing. I've done it myself. Sounds like this guy was crossing the line with the way he was killin 40's though, especially while driving the truck. And as for the littering, I don't know if I could have kept my mouth shut. Seeing someone toss an empty 40 in the lake would make me sick.

You're 15. So take solace in the fact that in a few years no one will be able to tell you what to spend your money on if you earned it yourself.

I'm pretty sure that must be what he's talking about. Sounds just like the way my Lews Tournament is set up.

I like a lot of different genres. And my taste, as far as which ones I like more, have changed several times over the years. I was really into all different kinds of metal for a while, and I still like it. But classic rock, like 60's and 70's stuff is probably my favorite now.

I got a glass rod for crankbaits and I really like it. I'll use it for any lure with treble hooks, so I guess I would say that it is pretty versatile.

I have 2 spinning setups, and 2 baitcast (Not counting my little zebco and my catfishing rods) and I use one baitcast and one spinning the majority of the time. So I would be fine with only 2 rods and reels. And having only one would work too. I would suggest getting as nice of a rod & reel as you can afford, and just enjoy it. You can decide later if you want/need more.

It wouldn't hurt to call and let them know your concerns. I don't know if they'll act on it. But that's about all you can do.

One time I ate at a restaurant with my two nicest rod n reel combos in the bed of my truck. It must have been the most uncomfortable meal I've ever eaten, standing up every 90 seconds or so, so I could see the parking lot. It's the only time I've ever taken a risk that stupid with valuable possessions, and I'll never do it again. They weren't stolen though, thank God.

I'd say there's a good chance the fish survived then. It might shake the hook loose. And if it was a decent sized fish, or as huge as you say it was, then it could easily still eat with a 3/0 offset hook in its lip.

The Mitchell 300Pro that I bought last year did not come with an extra spool either. I'm assuming you would have to buy another spool online, if there even are any available. If you keep turning the drag counter clockwise, it will eventually loosen up enough for you to remove the spool. And you simply put the spool back in place and tighten the drag, clockwise, in order to put it back on. If you want to be able to change spools, you'll have to find another one somewhere. I've never felt much need for it personally. And now that I have multiple reels, I feel even less need for it, since it is much easier to just pick up a different combo than it is to change the spool out. My Pflueger Patriarch has a spare spool. I threw some 4lb fluoro on it, and have only ever used the spare spool option once, when I wanted really light line for crappie fishing.

What kind of hook was it?

7 is probably an alright place to start. Just slowly lower it as you get more experience.

Exactly. Not a good idea. I agree with the guys who said have a fish fry. A huge fish fry.

I have the 6'10" M/M glass for crankbaits. Love it.

I can't make up my mind. Both are awesome. And pairing rod and reel together is all part of the fun.

Here's what I've been using: Rod Power Medium Rod Action Moderate Reel Gear Ratio and bait caster or spinning reel 6.4:1 baicaster Type of line Mono What pound test for line 12 pound To be more specific, I'm using a 6'10" St Croix Mojo Bass Glass rod M/M, and a Lews Tournament Speed Spool 6.4:1