Crankin4Bass

I've had the same thing happen with Dick's. One end of the box was open. I was surprised the rod even made it here. They also sent me the wrong model of rod. I returned it to my local store. I have ordered reels, baits and terminal tackle from Dick's without any problems, but I will never order a rod from them again.

Another vote for the Sienna 1000.

I bought the same kayak, 2 years ago, at REI for 15% off during their annual Memorial Day sale. I believe they also have them 15% off for Presidents Day. I've seen similar sales at Austin Kayak. Also look for local kayak demo days. They often have similar specials. Don't forgot a PFD!

Acme Kastmaster in silver

I got tired of hooks sliding around too so I leave them in the original pack and keep them in an open Plano with no dividers.

I use Keitech tungsten jigs. Black and blue is my favorite color. They have them at Dick's. Of course you can get them cheaper online.

I use a google doc spreadsheet I can access on my phone.

Sorry. I misunderstood.

I get it. I hate spending money too. I always try to figure out how to save money by using what I already have. I was just worried about paddle flex if you did the extension thing. Paddle flex saps a lot of power from your paddle stroke. Wide kayaks are already slow enough to begin with. Just my 2 cents. Let us know how it goes and post pics if you do the extension project. J Francho is right. You can get lots of paddles in the size you want. I started with a 96 inch (243 CM) paddle I bought online from for $33 from Walmart. Kind of heavy but it worked. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Propel-Paddle-Gear-Kayak-Paddle-Yellow-Feather-Blade-2-Piece/49398410

I think the extender would add a lot of extra flex to the paddle. If you are a happy with the $60 paddle why not just buy another one in the 250 length you want (if it's available) instead of sacrificing the 220 one too?

A drop of oil on the spool shaft should take care of the noise.

Do you guys have problems with turning the external brake adjustment dial on the curado 70/71? I find it very hard to turn the dial. Maybe I just got a bad one?

Cabela's has some G.Loomis rods at 25% off. I just ordered a GLX 783c MBR for $311

Where have you found Dobyns rods in MA? I haven't seen them anywhere.

This is the best quote I've read in a long time! I have remember this when I am tempted to buy cheap gear on sale.

Yes. Aluminum frame with graphite or composite side plates. Feels solid for $60.

The Fuego CT I have is made in Thailand. Don't know about the tatula.

Fuego CT is a solid reel for the money. It's surprising how good it is for the price. I had a BlackMax as my first baitcaster. The Fuego is miles better. There is also the new Shimano SLX at $100

Berkley Lightning ($40) or Berkley Lightning Shock ($50) are popular sub $50 dollar choices. Both are available at Bass Pro Shops. Walmart has the Lightning Shock in some lengths for $40. http://www.berkley-fishing.com/berkley-rods/#prefn1=ZZSERIES&prefv1=Berkley%20Lightning%20Rod I have both in spinning rods and prefer the handle on the Lightning spinning over the Lightning Shock. The regular Lightning feels lighter to me and I prefer the hook keeper. I do not like the hook keeper on the Lightning Shock as sometimes the line gets caught. I'm using Pflueger President 30 size reels on both. Good sub $100 combo.

KTP should be able to order one for you too.

I've noticed this noise too on many Shimano and Pflueger spinning reels that I have when they were new. I pulled the spool and put a drop of oil on the spool shaft and the noise disappeared.

It's tough finding lead free options. Thanks for pointing me to these two options!

Have you found a non-lead weighted swimbait hook for the fat impacts?

No you don't want the ones that mushroom. They can pull out. I like these rivets: https://yakgear.com/product/tri-grip-rivet-kit-10-per-pack/ They have a rubber gasket and flair out into three parts for strong grip. Here's a good video that shows how well nuts and tri-grip rivets work. Enjoy your new kayak!

Ocean Kayaks use riveted handles. Seems to work fine. Here's some handles: https://yakgear.com/product/handle-kit-2-per-pack/ You can get a rivet gun for $5 from Harbor Freight. https://m.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/hand-riveters/hand-riveter-set-38353.html Marine goop: https://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/amazing-goop®-37-oz-marine#repChildCatid=500052 Instructions: Here's a great video on how to install just about anything on a kayak: