Big Swimbait

I agree that the Keitech's are amazing baits. But don't give up on a grub fished the same way. A Kalin's Lunker Grub has caught me a lot of bass over the years and they're 10 to a pack for $3.00!

Another vote for Hi Seas Grand Slam Select. 15# is my go to. Plus it is very budget friendly.

That's the Glide Swimmer - another good SG bait! This is the Shine Glide...

M-Pack Lures. Whatever you do, don't use Disco Violet http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/M-Pack_Lures_Shad_Soft_Jerkbait/descpage-MPLS.html

I run my braid thru a cheap lead slip sinker. Grab the tag end & drop the weight into the bottle of dye of choice. Pull the line thru the weight until you have dyed the length you want. Easy & not as messy.

I have the BB2HZ on one of my swimbait rods. It has been flawless for several years now.

Dobyns Colt - $80.00 http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Dobyns_Colt_Series_Casting_Rods/descpage-CLTR.html

Spiralite Maverick. Quality rod with Winn Grips which I really like - $120.00 or less. https://spiraliterods.com/maverick-series/

I have something similar, except I ran 2 pieces of threaded rod with cap nuts on each end close to the top edge. That way I can hang the baits with big snap swivels & not have to pick them all up when I take off the lid.

H action rod

A lot. Works great on Trick Worms too. They are getting hard to find.

Find some Dangleberry Rigs. The sliding weight gives a Fluke very erratic action when twitching.

If I have some braid that is faded that I have already reversed, I use Spike It Garlic Dye. Just thread your braid thru an old slip sinker, hold the tag end & drop the sinker into the dye. Then pull however much you want to dye thru the sinker. They have a lot of colors now so I sometimes alternate every 2 ft to break it up - camo & scent. Disposable gloves are a must.

Powell & Lew's

Well I was lucky enough to win one of these rods in a club raffle (7'3" H). I gave it a good workout over a couple of outings & I must say, it performs way above it's price point. Honestly I liked it better that some rods I have that are double it's price. I liked it enough to order the CB rod & it too is an exceptional performer. I will be adding to the collection!

The knot I recommended has never failed me. That is the only "war" that matters to me. There is a big difference in the gradual increase in tension on Knot Wars vs a big fat girl making a run at the side of the boat. I use the knot on everything from the Ned Rig to 50 lb braid to 20 lb copoly on my swimbait gear.

I've been tying this one without failure. Quick & simple.

I recently field tested 3 different Major Craft rods for a local rep. I did not use the rod you mentioned, but the swimbait rod & a prototype crankbait rod IMO were overrated as to lure weight & action. As to the CB rod, it was truly a remarkable rod staying less than it's rating. The 3rd rod was the Don Iovino designed finesse spinning rod. It truly is the ultimate Ned Rig rod - a great value.

Recently picked up the new Dobyns Colt 7' H fast. Been out 4 times with it. Not sure how they can sell it for $79.00. It truly is a very nice rod.

^^^THIS^^^

When I was at the Classic last year, I noticed several pros with multiple colors on the deck. I assume they were using that as a way to grab the rod/reel they needed.

That's them. Great for the "rig".

Check Steepandcheap.com often. They are a closeout seller of high end outdoor gear and have Costas at less than half price sometimes. They carry a lot of other sunglasses brands as well.

A lot of good choices have already been mentioned. In addition I really like the Smash-Tech line thru.

I really like the ones Seibert does with the Owner hooks. If I need weedless, I take a piece of 50# mono & super glue one end behind the jig head & curve it over the hook & stick it in the bait behind the hook. Then I pull it out, add a drop of glue & stick it back. It will last as long as the bait does.