PGA Dropout

If we're sticking to one rod lineup, the Levante series looks promising. The XX rods are killer so I (and others) have high hopes. The Zodias rods from Shimano are exceptional but they're all fast action. Probably not ideal for cranking.

Frogs and 1/2 oz+ swim jigs.

Put them on the same rod and test a few lure weights. Otherwise it's kind of "cool story bro".

If the lakes didn't freeze yesterday, I'd let you try mine. Certainly the same palm size as the OG Conquest 51 (at least close enough for government work). The '14-'15 CQ 101's are far from finesse reels. My favorite use for it is swimming jigs with paddletails through pads and grass. They are very powerful reels.

I'd throw that.

XX Flat Side Special. The M Premier will probably work but then you wouldn't have to buy a new rod, and that's no fun.

Nope. It's awful. Christmas is good though. Kielbasa and pierogi for days.

Zodias. Haven't gotten my hands on the Levante yet but that's my second choice.

Girlfriend is vegetarian so I eat enchiladas on Thanksgiving. Not a bad change after twenty some years of dry turkey.

Checking the auctions every day for a green I'ze Personal to match my NRX. Maybe a red one too. You know, Christmas colors. If I end up with gift cards or some $ left after I buy presents for everyone, hellooo XX Tour Versatile.

I threw up blood for 12 hours after mine. Your mileage may vary. Also, metal.

Nothing special unfortunately, and the warranty replacement process falls short of competitor's. I bought the 7' glass rod years ago as baby's first crankbait rod. The yellow is truly hideous but fades a bit over time. You can do a lot better for the money with other brands these days.

You could always drop an SV spool in the Megabass too.

Drop into Sportsman's Direct (like 16 and Jefferson-ish) and they'll probably be able to help you out. Nice guys. Decent boat rental too from what I hear. There could also be the possibility of scoring Smallmouth from shore this time of year. You could also check out the St. Clair Network forums; I've read some good advice there from time to time. I've pulled 3-4 lb. Smallmouth out of Kent in previous years but none this past year so I don't know if that's helpful. Cass Lake isn't a bad idea now that most of the recreational traffic is done for the season.

Certainly not. Only Z-man brand products for the Ned rig, which includes line, reel, rod, and in some cases, watercraft.

Couple XX rods and maybe a Levante Leviathan. New Legend Elite is also on the radar. I'm good on reels but the Antares might need a deep spool.

Groovy.

It should be. The FSS does a lot right.

Flat Side Special

Definitely worth getting if you find the standard gearing too slow. However I have not found the need to upgrade to the HG (yet). I'm digging the standard for 3/8 oz swim jigs. Now, the 301... that I may need.

The '13 Metanium will ruin a lot of other reels for you. Everybody needs one (or six).

What are you throwing that on? I'm interested.

It's already bad, but probably fixable by a solid reel technician. DVT can probably help.

4" Easy Shiner. Nice wiggle, moves the whole jig. They're about as durable as Kleenex though so I'm looking for an alternative.