WIGuide

On a crankbait it won't change the action that much. I'd use something other than a steel leader though, because they will eventually rust out and snap when you least expect it. Also, if they get kinked they're shot. I'd recommend either a titanium leader or the Knot-2-Kinky leader material.

Crankbaits can be very effective from the bank. The only time they get hard to throw is if there's a lot of veggies in between you and the deeper water.

You have mostly natural lakes up there so there won't be a river channel. If it has a dam, there's about a 99% chance it'll have one though.

Make sure you're making your pause long enough. If the water is really cold maybe even try to just pull the bait and pause instead of snapping it. Another suggestion would be for you to locate fish with your crankbait and after you know what they're doing try running your pattern with a jerkbait instead. Don't give up yet! They're a proven fish catcher.

5.57

I don't have much experience with a chatter bait, but I think of swim jigs like a finesse spinnerbait. I'll usually fish it in clearer water or high pressure situations. My trailers of choice are Big Bite Baits Cane Thumper and also a Kalins 5" Lunker Grub.

You can stick with the old adage of "bigger baits, bigger fish". In your Wednesday night league you don't want to go too big since you only have three hours, but if you throw something bigger you'll probably be eliminating some of the smaller fish but that's ok given the situation. If fish shallow, and you're dealing with heavily pressured fish go for the thickest cover you can find and try putting your bait places other people can't or just flat out won't.

I don't listening to anything while on the water. The sounds of being on the water is music to my ears. On the way to the lake though that's a different story, especially on the morning of a tournament. I've got a homemade CD that has mostly songs about fishing on it including two of Casey Ashley's best of "That's What I'm Fishing For" and "Fisherman" (if you haven't heard them and you're into fishing, YOU NEED TO). They help remind me to stay grounded. Also the cd has a good mix of country rock and even a little pop n hip hop. It all works together to help get me JACKED....like I really needed a reason other than fishing lol.

Nice work man that thing is huge!

they did that for his own good haha

Simply stated, WIN. That'll offset all those expenses haha. One of the tips I've heard is to not fill you boat tanks up until you get there because hauling that weight will reduce fuel economy. Make sure tires are properly inflated. Pull the boat without a cover on if weather permits. Even the best fitting covers have a bit of a parachute effect. Otherwise, bring your own food and look around for the best deals on hotel or campground. A lot of times it's cheaper to stay a little ways away from the lake because the hotels close will generally have an inflated rate.

I'll let you know in about 6 months when all the snow and ice finally melts off. Forecasted lows in the single digits through next Tuesday....really?? Screw you WI!!

For the price it should be! I'm more than happy with my Berkley 100% Fluoro

10 or 12 lb. Berkley 100% Fluoro

It sucks, but it's better to wait and buy the one that's right for you instead of ending up buying something that you're not going to be happy with.

Jerkbait, lipless crankbait, crankbait, spinnerbait, and a blade bait.

Props on getting your son out there and spending some quality time with him!

10-11

Not sure why it would turn you off that they stopped making something that wasn't selling. It's not like there was some guy sitting in an office looking over the numbers saying "I can't believe we are selling so many of these, they're just flying off the shelves......better shut down production because this could be profitable!" For an answer to the post, I'd have to probably say Yum Dingers are something I can't go without.

Skip the WD40 and just get yourself some Kick'n Bass! That scent is crazy good and extremely strong.

x2 Pretty much all I use these days. They're just as good as the other frogs on the market but at a fraction of the price. That's definitely a factor I look at fishing them up here with all the toothy critters. It doesn't matter how heavy of braid you use, if a Northern or Musky gets the whole thing in their mouth you'll only see braid flying back at you. If they somehow manage to only get the bait, it's usually shredded.

I've heard good things about the St. Croix Mojo Bass Crankbait rods if you're looking to go glass.

Fish are moving up and actively feeding this time of year so reaction baits rule.

I don't have one but from what I've heard about the Lew's that's what you should go with. I've heard mixed reviews about the Skeet Reese and the Academy one could be good but I haven't heard anything about them.

Yes, you can match pretty much any lines together without much issue.