ThePolkFolk

Absolutely as Wayne stated. More hull width = more stability.

I have a 14' semi V set up similar to the way you described. I have a group 24 and group 29 sitting in the back with the trolling motor and have no issues. All my gear is loaded mid to front for balance and I usually stand in the mid-rear to middle (I have a handle extension on my TM), it is pretty stable on my boat; you will want to see how yours acts with weight at different areas. The 55lb Endura Maxx I have gets the job done and having two batteries brings peace of mind. I use forward thrust for moving spot to spot and I fish the boat backwards in reverse since it is easier to handle the boat when the TM is pulling the boat. Transducer is mounted at the rear under the waterline.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge Roger, I did not know that about Winterset!

I always wondered why Winterset was so clear when it is surrounded by pretty stained waters. Have you fished Winterset much?

Hey cport, we moved to Winter Haven after my dad retired from the Army, he works for the state now in Bartow, FL Dept of Agriculture. I ended up back here after school as well. With the Winter Haven Chain, the Kissimmee Chain, and the Harris Chain all so close; there may have been a reason I came back!

Welcome to BR. Used to go to school up there but never got any fishing in. Good luck on your adventures!

I live in Florida so there isn't much off season, but I have been fixing up a new (to me) jon boat as well as practicing backing in the trailer while the ramps are slower. The first time was the only time I truly had major trouble, but I did forget the plug once! I do enjoy shooting though and have picked up clay shooting this winter.

Had the 75 and loved it. Pinpoint accurate. Wish I had never sold it.

South side of Eloise has some good holes around the edge of the lake. If you have a depth finder I would go scout those holes out. The East side of Lulu has a lot of depth variation as well.

I'll take a look at my maps when I get home and let you know if I have any hotspots marked for Eloise or Lulu. A lot of it is hitting the drop-offs/holes offshore, but the shorelines can produce as well.

Are you on a boat or off the bank? On Winterset I've had luck with finesse presentations since the water is so clear, just have to get through the grass. I also like using bluegill/perch looking lures in Winterset since there are so many perch/sunfish in the lake. Other lakes in the chain I have had luck throwing jigs w/ zoom chunks, chatterbaits, t-rigs along the grasslines/weeds. The Chain can be rough but when they do hit it is worth it. Goodluck!

DSG off US27/I4 in Central Florida has/had 3 for $20 Livetarget baitball products. Forget when the sale was supposed to end.

I have had luck with the Ned rig in junebug out in Winter Haven/Auburndale. Also white chatterbaits along points in the weedlines.

Always open to meeting new people to fish with! If the schedules work out you can bet I will be up there. Hope you enjoy your trip to FL nonetheless!

Welcome! Let me know if you ever make it out to Polk, I will have to head up I4 soon as I hear 407 area has some real nice water for bass fishing!

Does anyone have personal recommendation on brand? Is Z-man the standard?

Thanks for the advice Knightiac, I learned my limits very quickly and now have a spinning setup to compliment it.

Hi all, Decided to make an account after learning a wealth of information here. I live in Central Florida and have fished for a long time as an amateur; I am hoping that with enough patience and the forum's knowledge, I can make the jump from amateur to someone...resourceful. As I have recently gotten back into fishing more often,I picked up a baitcaster to learn and it has been going great with the knowledge other members have on the forums. Glad to be in the club; looking at some of the other members' PRs....I have a lot of catching up to do!