rtwvumtneer6

Communication is key for me. Unless a guide comes highly recommended by someone that I trust, I shop around. Typically after a phone call, text or email exchange I get a pretty good idea of who I best connect with. The level of customer service prior to the trip has, in most cases, directly correlated to the experience on the water. You will find guides on both ends of the spectrum. Some are "my way or the highway" and some will operate the boat and let you do your thing until you start asking questions. It doesn't take long to establish if what they offer is what you are looking for. It's also important to manage your own expectations. To me, the number and quality of fish caught is only part of a successful trip. I also weigh the amount of information and knowledge that I walk away with that will help me become a better angler, and if I feel they did everything possible to put me in a position to achieve the goals discussed prior to the trip. It's fishing, and there are always numerous elements that are out of our control. Even the best in the world have tough days! Good luck! Wishing you much success.

Are y'all on this app? I think I get sucked into it more than I do these forums ? Also has some pretty cool fishing content!

Yep! Generally a black and blue or junebug, a green pumpkin or watermelon and a white/shad color will cover your basics. You can expand based on the results of those three. Also, you can make a white plastic any color you want... Just color it with a marker!

Eureka effect - The eureka effect refers to the common human experience of suddenly understanding a previously incomprehensible problem or concept. So simple, but makes so much sense. Well said @BassWhole!

I consider a drop shot a finesse technique. I fish dropshots on a M/L or Medium spinning rod. 15/20# high vis braid to a 6 or 8# Fluoro leader. Usually see my line jump and it feels like someone smacked my line with a pencil. Other times, I'll lift and the rod will load.

That must be a pretty big table... ?

What is the bait made of? In the simplest terms I can explain, it will melt the plastic and bond it. Only takes a few seconds. I would make sure the surfaces are clean and dry, and apply to both sides.

I use the 1/2 size Mend-It. It's got a brush applicator. Reminds me of nail polish. Easy to use and pays for itself. Store in a cool place. No experience with the other product mentioned.

Same. I don't make as many wraps, making the knot smaller. The idea is this knot will never come into play, therefore I don't need it to be the worlds strongest connection knot.

Tube. Owner has a Phantom weighted tube hook up to 3/16. If you need heavier, you can stupid rig a different jig head. Both are weedless presentations.

Use the "Wish List" feature. I keep them seasonally, and as an inventory on baits or tackle that I keep multiples of in stock. I think it helps me to remember what I actually need, as opposed to buying spontaneously. Also, I never have any trouble getting to the free shipping plateau ?

FR703C - Spinnerbaits FR734C - Buzzbaits Both with 7.2:1 SLX XT They both get used for multiple techniques, but those are where they shine for me.

https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Spike_It_Blade_Dip/descpage-SBD.html Might be worth a look. I've not used the chartreuse or white you are talking about but the red works well. Leaves a glossy finish but does dull over time.

When I first started throwing bladed jigs I was using a rod that was too stiff. You'll want some backbone, but also a parabolic bend to let the fish get the bait. Found a lot more success when I continue to reel and let the rod load and then sweep into them to set the hook. I'll go as low as a M/F in open water. MH/MF would also be a good choice IMO. A lot of guys throw a composite cranking rod, also.

War Eagle.

No, it will be fine. They are extremely buoyant. If the hooks interfere with each other, going to a short shank hook when up-sizing hooks usually solves that problem.

We have a few Sportsman's Warehouse in my area (within 50ish miles). One opened as a sportsman's warehouse and one was a Field and Stream. Both stores are very different. The original has some good deals, mixed with some ridiculously high prices, but their inventory is not consistent. The old Field and Stream remains identical to what it was as Field and Stream (even the decor). However, I believe the folks at Bass Pro may have acquired Sportsman's Warehouse. Check my facts there... Not 100% sure it's accurate.

I have a 6 speed reel that is 28 IPT and it says "High Speed" right on the frame? Both ratios will work fine, it's really dependent on what your default reeling tempo is, and everyone is different. Twist my arm, and I'd choose the 6.X:1 for the lures listed.

Rage Bug. Cold water a Yamamoto double tail grub.

Went in after a rod and reel, but never a lure. Backlashed and the momentum pulled the rod right out of my hand. Kicked my shoes off and took my wallet out of my pocket, but drown a phone in the process. Good news, I recovered the rod and reel. They cost more than the phone did anyway.

That's neat! I would suggest getting rid of all hooks/metal and look into storage boxes that help to prevent rust. Personally I use Plano Rustrictor boxes but you'll find many helpful options if you look. Let us know how it goes once it's filled up again!

Help me to better understand. Are you wanting a combo that's capable of both freshwater fishing and inshore fishing? What's wrong with the gear you have? As far as rods are concerned, my bass spinning rods are all Medium and Medium-Light. Anything more than that I go to casting gear. Length is your preference. I use nothing but 2500 size reels. My biggest concern is a smooth drag. Might be able to help more if we knew what lures you plan to throw, and what your target species will be. I think the ugly stik you referenced is about $80. Is that your budget?

I second that, but the best connection for you is the knot that you tie the best. The strongest knot in the world is no good if you can't tie it correctly. The leader serves a few purposes: -Less visibility -Abrasion resistance -Stretch/shock absorber (mono can also be used) I'll use a leader on/in: -Spinning tackle (15-20# braid to 8# leader is my usual starting point) -Clear water -Moving/treble hook baits If I'm topwater frog fishing, or pitching into heavy vegetation I will go with straight braid. It'll help to cut through the grass, and line strength is priority. Some guys won't use a leader as it adds an extra knot, and another possible point of failure. In that case I would suggest a rod with a more parabolic bend, or backing your drag off a bit. My opinion, something in the set up has got to give.

https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Gambler_Komodo_Swimbait/descpage-GK.html Gambler Komodo - Red Hot

This is not a one size fits all. For instance, I throw war eagle spinnerbaits and depending on the time of year I fish 5/16oz finesse with a fat albert, 3/8oz and 1/2oz in the standard frame with a swimbait trailer, and 1/2oz screamin eagle with a trailer hook. I have 3 different rods that I feel work best for each. But, I digress. My suggestion would be buy a few lures that fit the rod, before buying rods to fit the lure. It's much cheaper that way! .