Chris at Tech

BPS Pro Qualifier/Carbonlite combo.

If you're planning on making this a one time(or rare) event, then 15 lb Berkley Big Game will do just fine. If you think this will be a recurring thing, I'd recommend investing in a 300 yd spool of braid, ~30 lb test/8 lb diameter

I'm rather hesitant to help someone with a handle like that but I'll make an exception For saltwater, I generally prefer braid but it ain't cheap. How big is the reel, or alternatively what is the line capacity shown on the reel? Based on that you can decide if it has enough capacity to use mono or if the smaller diameter of braid would be needed for line capacity reasons. As far as terminal tackle and rigging, I'd recommend a simple "fish finder rig". Basically it's the saltwater name for a Carolina rig. You'll need egg sinkers, swivels, leader material and some circle hooks. As for weight, I recommend 1-4 oz depending on current. You'll want mono leader material in a heavier test than your main line so you can deal with the toothy critters. 30-50 lb should be fine. For bait, use shrimp, pogies or finger mullet. Match the hook to the size of the bait. As always, a local tackle shop at your vacation destination is invaluable. You'll likely pay a bit more for tackle there, but the advice they provide is worth it!

Certainly not an apples to apples comparison but I got rid of my Cardiff 301A and replaced it with a Gen 1 Toro. I don't chuck the big baits nearly as much as others on here, but I do prefer the profile and castability of my my Toro

I have no doubts it can be done, but is it cost effective on a $60 rod? I'm guessing not

I'd say mono is more forgiving for the swimbait beginner. In my experience, casting a larger swimbait is considerably different than smaller bass lures, so master the technique first with mono and then move to braid if you'd like.

To maximize performance, you want your reel full. Now how you decide to split that between "good" line and filler line is up to you. 65-75 yards of good line at the top of your spool is what I'd go for. The line under that can be less expensive mono since you probably won't ever fish it. WIth that said, you can fill your entire spool with braid, then simply reverse it a year or two later and the fresh braid is now on top.

Aren't 6 in Hudds 2 ounces +? Seems like a bit of a all order for a MH rod, no?

Any number of paddle tail baits (like a Shadalicious) rigged with keel weighted hooks

I'm slowly phasing out all my green braid for the brighter colors, both fresh and salt combos. The last 6ft or so of the braid get colored with a black Sharpie, and I normally use a leader unless extremely heavy cover. I'm not sure it truly makes a difference but it makes me feel better

Nice! I WILL find some time to meet up and fish with you

Though I haven't had a chance to fish mine yet (6'6" ML spinning rod), I agree with your comments on the clean, simple, no frills appearance. Almost seems like a custom build in that regard I've also yet to see a negative review on a rod in the KLX line yet - and to me, that says something given Kistler's polarizing past.

Nope I order extra spools direct from the manufacturers

I don't normally resurrect old threads like this but wanted to mention that Hudd's selling a run of these on their website now.

You NOT fishing Hybrid? Doesn't seem right

I've heard the rave reviews, but I just can't pull the trigger. Tell you what Kent - you bring a bulk spool of Tatsu to the next roadtrip like you brought Yozuri Hybrid to Guntersville to share, I'll give it a try

Sufix Performance or 832 in 10 lb test

As far as I'm concerned, I don't think there's a huge difference between the reputable brands. I have a combination of PP 15 lb, Sufix Performance 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 65, Sufix 832 10 lb on spinning and bait casting rigs, freshwater and saltwater rigs, and I can't say I see a noticeable difference. The 832 sure seems more supple right out of the package, but the other braids break in after a trip or two IMO - stick with Sufix or PP and you'll be fine

Sufix Siege and P-Line CX (though it's actually a co-poly) I use Berkley Big Game for backing - hard to argue with 1000 yards for under $10

Wait for BPS fluoro to go on sale

I have 10 regular Suffix in orange with fluoro leader on my shakey head rod and it works great. I just got a new Kistler KLX ML spinning rod and spooled 10 lime 832 on it but haven't yet fished it. The brand new 832 already feels thinner and smoother than the well worn in regular Suffix braid

No issues at all throwing baits like that with me 3 power/MH Dobyns rods. But if I were to try with my Daiwa Zillion 7' MH, I think it would be a challenge. My point is to echo DVT's point above

Roswell, ay? Are the lakes you're fishing public or private? Either way, I'm jealous! Nice fish!

You'd need to check with Gene's kids for that They'll have plenty of GT gear -- don't worry about that!

Was thinking the same thing. If an officer approached you and asked for your license, is there any reason NOT to give it to him even if you think that the police don't have jurisdiction? Just seems silly to me to play games over something like this.