ABW

$150 isn't too bad. You could go with the BPS PQ Carbonlite combo, but that will run you about $160 Get the reel in a 6.4:1 ratio or a 7.1:1 with a 7' MH or H rod. If you are using this rod for only jigs, I would get the 7.1:1 with a H. If you want to use this rod for multiple techniques get the 6.4:1 ratio with the 7' MH. You want a high speed ratio to reel up the slack quickly, and a MH or H rod to get a good hookset. When fishing jigs, you have to take in consideration that the hooks are pretty thick, and there's a weed guard in the way. You need to have the backbone to drive the hook in their mouth.

NEVER GIVE UP!!! hahaha he's awesome

How much are you willing to spend? For around 200 you can pick up an *** Black and a Lew's Speed Spool. If you want to spend less the BPS PQ Carbonlite combo is a good one.

Welcome to the forums! The jig is a very good lure to use. Always catches fish for me, especially the big ones. How much are you willing to spend on the rod and reel? This will help us recommend a good combo for you that's in your price range. You can fish a jig practically everywhere and any time of the year.

I don't think it is available for purchase yet. It was a new line at ICAST this year, I think.

I don't think 65 lb braid is necessary, 50 is more than adequate for me. Plus the casting distance decreases when bumped up from 50-65.

This is just me, but I would opt for a tad bit longer rod. 7' to a 7'3. I have a 6'8" rod that I have used for jigs before and it's not that easy to set the hook on long casts. I have to tighten my drag all the way down and yank as hard as I can lol. I would go with their 7'2" MH Extra Fast

No, its because live bait is too easy

It doesn't really matter if you use different line diameter for backing. I don't see a problem with using 10 lb mono with 30 lb braid as the mainline, but for spinning gear I think 30 lb braid is a little too much. That's just me though. For the leader I usually keep it within a range of 4 lbs of the main line. It doesn't really matter though, just use an alberto knot. It connects 2 different lb test lines very well.

If you are starting out using baitcasters, I would use braided line or cheap mono for a few months just to get used to it. You'll backlash a lot. Braid is very manageable, but would not suggest going any lower than 30 lb test, due to the thin diameter digging into itself. I also would suggest you buy KVD Line and Lure conditioner. It helps a lot. To answer your question, you don't always need to go to the largest recommended line on your rods. You just need to use the lb test line that is good for your applications. This is a good article to read. http://www.another site/blog/fishing-line-guide/

Welcome to the forums and best of luck!!!

I would go with the Tatula too. The Lews Tournament MG would be my 2nd choice

You could always go with a traditional hollow body frog and just reel it slowly. I've gotten strikes from doing that. Otherwise I don't think there are many options out there for you

Why do you think the pros can't use live bait in tournaments?

Was looking at a few. The only ones I could find were the Scum Frog Thundertoad and the Snag Proof Bobby's Perfect Buzz Frog. These have a clacker on them like a buzzbait. Another steady retrieve you could do with all frogs is just walk them.

Every lure you have will come in handy.... one day. Where I fish I usually throw the same lures but its always nice to experiment with new things.

I'm gonna get the Buff branded ones... lots of cool designs

Spinning, just because when you use drop shots you are USUALLY using small worms, light wire hooks. A 7' Medium fast action or a 7' medium light fast action

Try an alberto knot. Never had one fail on me yet. If I were you I would use straight braid since you are fishing the Coosa River the most, and then tie on a leader whenever you need one.

To answer your questions... 1. When a bass takes the lure you'll usually feel a little tick. Or if you are paying attention to your line it is easy to tell when you have a fish. 2. Floating worms will give a better presentation, which allow the tail to float up while you shake the worm. You don't necessarily need to use floating worms though. 3. Set the hook vertically 4. It's an awesome rig but it requires patience. Shakey heads always catch fish for me when the bite is tough.

Congrats dude!!

Spook or a frog!

Looking to buy one, because I don't like the sun being on my neck and face all the time.

I use the Powell Diesel 7', but its a MH. I still throw what you stated on that rod though

I love wearing a hoodie and some jeans when fishing