Dan:

congrats Matt 5.0. what were the results for the smallmouth division?

I've used the Stratus GTs but not the XTS versions. The GTs were ok little spinning reels but nothing to get excited about.

when I was little, I used to call them "corn dog plants"

that's true, even a well maintained Ford Escort can get you from point a to b like a Rolls.

I should preface this by saying I don't know that much about reels but I am a fan of Shimano and Pflueger but not enough to bias me against other reels... but just because something costs more and doesn't have one feature doesn't make it worse. A Rolls Royce without power windows is still a nicer vehicle than a Ford Escort that does...even though it costs more but lacks one feature.

I have had some good days with a clear spook. I don't think I've really noticed any key environmental conditions that a clear topwater exceeds in, but I like using it ;D

lucky you. I fished there once with a friend who ended up cacthing a 4.5 lber. I hear there are some big bass and GIANT carp in those lakes. There was an article in the Post last year about a guy catching a 40lb carp out there.

Yeah, the "quest" brand with that logo is one of Dick's exclusive brands. I agree with you though, they are a very good rod for $25

Ashburn Village lakes are private.

Show me these places selling Quest rods...The only thing I found was the Quest brand at Dick's and fly rods w/ the model name "Quest II" at LL bean which are LL Bean brand, not Quest. Big Tom, if the rod is the Quest brand whose logo is sort of like this picture without the direction letters and with "QUEST" written across it, then it is the Dick's exclusive brand.

Welcome, Nitro Man! I see you are from Remington. I have fished the Rappahannock and Rapidan rivers down there many times. The Rapidan is my favorite place to fish.

Quest is a Dick's Sporting Goods brand. They make everything from fishing poles to sleeping bags and tents. As far as I know (from a Dick's manager--I used to work there), the "Quest" brand is replacing the "Northwest Outfitter" brand Their rods are pretty decent for the money, I had one for a little smallie setup until I slammed the tip in a door. I definitely wouldn't buy them to dedicate to my everyday setup but they are ok rods to throw on inexpensive combos for kids or beginners or for backup setups. Overall, great for the money, but I would spend more to get a more sensitive, strong, and durable rod.

Just figured I'd make sure. I've heard stories of people being kicked out and I figure there problem wouldn't be problems fishing there most times but I don't want to drive all the way out there with the chance I'll be kicked out.

no, public... No, I just checked to make sure. Only residents of Ashburn Village and their guests are allowed to fish there and the resident has to be there with you and has to have a fishing license and recreation ID card from Ashburn Village.

Looks great! Shaky heading is one of my favorite techniques for river smallmouth, I might have to order some to give em a shot.

aren't the Ashburn Village lakes private?

yeah, I was pretty sure about that but didn't want to say anything for certain and get caught with my foot in my mouth.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ear_candling http://www.coningcompany.com/faq.html http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/candling.html I think I'll stick to Q-Tips

That's awesome! And way to put in the extra effort, Rick! That's what I call a good fishin' partner. I agree about the last picture as well, I've always had trouble trying to take pictures in a fish's mouth because of lighting and what not, but that one came out great!

i see you already made a decision, but just for anyone else who might use this thread for advice- I would have suggested getting 2 Citicas @ $70 a piece...

I did a little river wading on Friday! Now I have to wear a jacket outside. I can't wait for spring to really get here.

it has 0 bids because it's not an auction, it's a "Buy it Now or Best Offer" sale with a fixed price.

Depends on how many fish it will catch.... on average, I try to keep it to under $10 but I will get the occasional $15 LC. I would probably pay up to $25 if I saw something that I really really liked.

Catspit, unless I REALLY overlooked something, there are no smallmouth at Mercer.

lol, I mean, that sucks, but it's kinda funny if you think about it. I had a friend who I would take fishing and it seemed like he would only get bit RIGHT as his phone was ringing. It was like good luck or something because it would ring and he would start reeling a fish in as he was talkin... In all seriousness, if you are really concerned about it, just be more careful for pete's sake! Watch where you step and make sure you have a good grip on your phone and rod when you talk while fishing...