foul hooked

Value rod - Shimano Compre. Under $90. Lite, sensitive, well made. Lifetime warranty.

I had the same problem as Avid. I found that if I was lazy and just tied a sloppy palomar knot I would get some breakoffs. I started paying attention to my knots and the problem stopped. I find the YZUS to be very abrasion resistant. It handles cement bulkheads well.

When I got back into fishing after a 10 year layoff I really fished a splitshot rig hard. Lately I've been throwing cranks, spinners and jigs. I'm going balance my reaction presentations with the splitshot rig.

KVD's "Pitching to Big Hitters" @ BPS is a great dvd, espcially when you buy the 3 pak. http://www.basspro.com/servlet/catalog.TextId?hvarTextId=80198&hvarDept=100&hvarEvent=&hvarClassCode=12&hvarSubCode=1&hvarTarget=browse It's a steal for $7 and change!

I understand the concept of matching the proper line diameter with rod specifications and the ramifications if you don't. When looking at reels, is it critical to adhere to only the line sizes that they give you in the capacity charts. For example, Team Daiwa - X specs are 12#/170 yds and 14#/140 yds. Should you only use 12# or 14# ? I am looking for a casting reel to fish 8# to 10# lines. Is the TD-X (example reel) unsuitable because the specs chart only give line capacities for 12# and 14#?

Oooopps, my mistake! I misquoted the article I read on the TD backlash systems. I should have said - "When we finally started fishing with the Fuego we found the reel to be even more inspiring. Anti backlash cast controls are easy to set on the fly and the Fuego features Daiwa's most advanced system, Magforce-Z. The Fuego one-ups the SOL mechanically as the SOL still makes use of Magforce-V. MagForce-Z uses the same basic design as Magforce-V, but does so slightly more efficiently". The Baitmonkey, err, I mean Raul knows his Japanese toys!

The Fuego has the better anti backlash feature. Mag Z opposed to Mag V.

KVD says use a chatruesse trailer when fishing muddy or heavy stained water. I use a yellow Zoom swim chunk and they work great. Always use a trailer hook.

I fish a Fuego and your scenario has never happened to me. Great reels!

The Bait Monkey is going to run the place.

Here is what I use - Shimano Citica 200D - $120(msrp) Shimano Compre 6' 10" MH XF - $80(msrp), I got mine at Gander Mountain for $49 Works great for me.

I think the 200s have the oversized gears. Thats why I went with the Citica 200.

Hey Chode - Do you have the 10 or 30? I'm seriously considering getting one for my canoe. Can't decide if the 30 is worth the extra money.

I've got 2 Compres. I'm extremely happy with them.

Bass fishing is like when you are single and persuing that particular women. Bass don't play by the rules. Bass defy logic. But when you get a good hookup, hang on brother. There is nothing like the pursuit of that keeper! I say this with the greatest respect for women.

I have not had mine yet. It starts this weekend!

Grew up in Western New York. Now I live in Texas. Thus, NYTEX!

You can adjust them up out of the water when moving. Just turn a knob on the end of the outrigger and pull them up. They are a really simple but effective gadget.

avid suggested getting stabilizers for my canoe, what a difference. Being able to stand and throw with authority has boated me more and better fish. Thanks avid.

His instructional videos @BPS are fantastic. He comes across as a real solid, down to earth guy.

Thank you for your service. Stay safe, and keep your Spidergrub loving head down. I am looking forward to having you back.

Floaters vs. sinkers, both work, let the fish tell you which. A T-rig is target specific. 1st rule of bass fishing: Bass don't follow rules!

A lazy cast that ends up in a boat or tree.

Thanks for the info on the stabilizers. I think these might be in my future.

avid - where did you get the stabilizers? can you stand up and cast with these? I would love to be able to stand and cast from my canoe. Thanks, Mike