Big Swimbait

Yes. Most often a Spunk Shad.

I have 2 Kastking Deadbolts - one on my frog rod and one for flipping/pitching. The idea of no drag on these setups is a game changer for me. They have been flawless for 2 years and still going strong.

When I was at the Classic this year, the Bass Pro booth had these and bulk packs of the Mann's Jelly Worms in their Bargain Bins. I was an idiot for passing on both!

It's the old story "you have to let the fish tell you." I have had days when the squeaker got smashed but other days they wanted something less aggressive. But if I think I will be on a buzzbait bite, it is always tied on. It has been very durable for me, also.

Savage Gear - $14 Scroll down for the Crappie. https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Savage_Gear_Pulse_Tail_LB_Bluegill_Swimbaits_4/descpage-SGPTLBB.html

I pick and choose from a few brands. Geecrack is the most used. Ryugi for some hooks. And I buy the Megabass Karashi - a lot LOL.

I took the Mudhole class so I could learn to build my own rods. There are deals to be had on the auction websites and I just shop around until I find what I want. I have built rods with high end blanks and Torzite guides. They are extremely light and much more sensitive than my store-bought rods. Of course my labor is free, but they usually come in under $200. That being said, my PG teener came on a Berkley Lightning Rod that was $35 at the time, so YMMV !

Go braid to leader and the cost is spread out over a longer period of time.

Amazon also has a huge selection. Pre-tarriff you could get these for $5-$6. Not anymore...

On sale right now. Made out of Elastech (or similar) so they last. https://thehookuptackle.com/collections/summer-bulk-bundles/products/bottomup-scooper-frog-daddy-bulk-bundles

An unfortunate trade off for the action it gives. If you were fishing for a check, maybe. But fun fishing would be a no-go for me.

Unless they are cruising just below the surface, they can only see the bottom. Keep it simple - white, black and bone.

My PB teener came on a Berkley Lightning Rod - 7'MH. At the time it cost $35. I think they are $50 now and come in 2-pice versions as well. I still use an 8' UL casting rod (2 piece) for BFS. It has been flawless.

Amazon did just what they said. New rod arrived today in perfrct condition!

I use these... https://www.amazon.com/Mimilure-Spinner-Spinners-Spinnerbait-Accessories/dp/B01N9OKJKT?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&smid=A3DWBSNIJU0QPR&th=1

Well, I took a look thinking I was probably too late, but actually found something I was looking for - a light action spinning rod for Ned stuff. It was in the Pro Staff Series and was $68 after the coupon that was in the description. Got it the next day (yesterday) and there was a big green sticker on the shipping tube that said "open this end." I guess the driver took that seriously as that end was totally open - and the rod was broken. I know - shocker! Amazon says they are picking it up and bringing me a new one today. We shall see...

I use a Shimano Sensilite 7' L for my Ned Rigs.

Yes he is.

The 60 is my go-to BFS topwater. I always have that and a Karashi tied on.

The pre-cut dividers is something that was long overdue.

I have gone to BKK. I still have some Redline weedless wacky hooks I will use eventually.

@WRB-2.0 has given me many, solid recommendations over the years.

I still use my All Star WR1. I am constanly looking for another.

Ouch! On some items, the new prices will make it difficult for some to pull the trigger.

Gold Label leader line is thinner per pound test than their fluro. Great option. That being said I am more and more using 20lb 832 in Camo. It is 6lb in diameter and I have not noticed a difference here in Texas.