CarolinaBoy4Life

My apologies did not see the specifics only skimmed the post. 65lb Power Pro for me in these conditions

I use Yo-Zuri hybrid for everything now. Break strength is must higher than listed. With line conditioner its my new favorite line because of price and performance

I use the rage toad and gambler cane toad as well. BOTH killer baits

Not sure what its worth to you but I have an 18ft center console bay boat with a 70HP Johnson and it will top out at around 43 MPH with just me in it and gear. With two people its more around 38MPH. Plenty fast enough for me at the moment. Boat style, engine size, load etc. would vary MPH that are able to be achieved.

No one will be able to tell you specifics on a question like this. Its all about on water experience and learning your specific boat and how it handles. Even then daily variables such as wind, waves, etc. would change the answer. Once you get used to the boat and settled in to its operation I'm sure you will know where you feel comfortable in pushing it. If you don't know don't risk over extending your boating capabilities. Better to be safe than sorry.

I had this problem when I first went from pond fishing to the lake after I bought my boat. I was setting hooks on rocks left and right because I was not use to that type of structure and the feel it gave off. Finally learned the subtle and distinguished difference and now know without hesitation when its a rock or an actual fish. Now that doesnt mean I catch the fish everytime I get a thump but you will learn over time.

I started out with the silvermax as well. Although mine was the version from about 5 years ago or more. I still have the rod that came with the combo. Full cork handle, and to be honest I still use the rod and love it. Gave my buddy the reel when he first started with a baitcaster.

And here I thought 45 MPH was plenty fast for me in my 18ft center console lol

That's awesome service for sure. But unfortunately in today's America, with that gesture done once, many people (not meaning you) will expect that from here on out instead of a one time gesture by the company. I work for a leading OPE manf. and we receive the most absurd calls on a daily basis. Then people will threaten slander or to bad mouth on social media if the company does not give in to their demands. Its rather unfortunate that they do not understand the vast amount of calls received daily where someone expects something for nothing, or that they are owed something. Many times if you call in with a great attitude and not expecting something you will get a gesture such as Lews did for you. Rarely do you hear happy customers speak out, majority of the time its only "bad" service customers who speak out. Cudos to Lews

The tatula rod is a great rod, can also be found for much cheaper on the auction site. Irod's get great feedback as well. All the rods you mentioned are a good choice

Yes E10 is your problem. I work in the OPE business and it is an absolute nightmare for any engine really. I would never put it in my boat or equipment. I will always buy non ethanol. Ethanol gas has caused more damage to outboards, 2 stroke, and small engines than you can even begin to understand.

While not a skiff I have a center console that is similar to the layout of the skiff your referencing. I see no reason why it wouldn't be able to fish from a skiff for bass or fresh water species. A buddy of mine has one and he fishs both salt and fresh water with it and loves it. Its all in what your looking for. I was focused on a bass boat then came across my boat for sale. Now I am glad I went with it because I can go salt or fresh without any issues. Just follow proper maintenance and shes good to go everytime.

Absolutely have it inspected. For the price it shouldnt be a question to have a professional give you the peace of mind. A good boat mechanic can help you find a great deal or help root out a bad one rather quickly.

I have a 17ft 8in Quest center console. Its lay out is different than most bass boats but it fits 2 comfortably fishing and three if the anglers are experienced and know how to cast. I would go no smaller than 17ft.

Bought my ol man a Pflueger president for his birthday a few years back, uses it salt and fresh water. Beats the hell outta that thing and it still keeps on trucking. Great reel and even better at that price point.