The Bassman

If that's an FL (the last white Stradic) the part's available from Shimano. 877-577-0600. Guessing it's a 2500 or 3000. Part would be RD 20037. Talk to a rep and he'll make sure if that's right. Parts are discontinued on older versions. E- Replacement Parts online is also a good source.

My concern is that it's old stock. It's probably OK but mono will degrade in bright light over time. I say all this because I don't think Sufix has produced it for a while. I heard good things about it on other forums, though.

Been catching fish on and off all winter here. Caught one just shy of 4# last weekend. I'm getting tired of the novelty of winter open water fishing at this point, though. I'm optimistic that we're going to have an early spring. Traditionally in central IN early March gives us our first shot. Recent years have clearly shown a trend away from the longer winters in the past.

Have you ever seen the commercial of the dentist and his assistant looking at the x-ray of the patient's back pocket? Dr. comments that "it's all going to have to come out".

I remember buying an Aglia long and a snap ruler from Sheldon's years ago (early 70's).

I looked forward to them years ago, pre internet when they showed all the specs and options.

When I think of French spinners Mepps comes to mind. I use them with some success. Like the way they start up but you have to retrieve slow or they want to rise.

And he always closed by saying "So long and good luck with your fishing".

A carpenter once told me it's not how long or how hard you work but what you get done that matters. I've gotten a lot of fishing done over the years.

I haven't used them in a good while but I do remember that an under a buck Beetle Spin works for anyone old enough to cast a lure. If I'm not mistaken they originated in your neck of the woods.

Can't speak from experience. @Bass_Fishing_Socal might chime in on this. FWIW Asian Portal Fishing has the MGL 70's for under 120.00. That's a steal. Bait Monkey has been talking in my ear but I really don't need another bc. I've bought from them recently and they're a very good source.

Get to my age and you realize that's an exercise in futility. I do think that with your concern for being considerate you'd be well received.

In Fisherman article mentioned that bass see chartreuse as white. I'd think that would apply to yellow as well.

At those depths with baits to 3/4 oz. I would think the Zodias would be preferable. I spin fish with them and they are very sensitive.

One of my best bites on a Pop-R years ago came when I was burning it in for another cast. Caught several good fish in a short time. Since then I always give it a try. Lure comes through the water looking like a billfish teaser. It's a real rush getting bit at your feet. Doesn't work more often than it does.

I fish smaller lakes and ponds. Give me a bright day with a SW breeze, above 50*,mid/late afternoon. I'll head to the windward side and usually the fun starts real fast.

Temp in the 70's would definitely be a "fluke" here. Drove around looking for open water this afternoon.

I remember as a kid hearing my dad go on about a new miracle lure called a spoonplug that was guaranteed to work every time. He had no grasp of what was to be the foundation of modern structure fishing.

Enjoyed the original opening song where a bunch of chores were named that needed doing.

I've had a bit of success with that bait. Do you swim or jig it?

Actually the dog was prettier. I try to make friends with the homeowners on these ponds because I'm not even supposed to be there. I park in common areas like clubhouse lots and walk a lot. Would never park in front of or near someone's house.

Exactly what I do. Was gonna mention it but thought you guys would laugh.

I used it to sew a hole in a pocket in my fishing shorts. Problem is that I don't know how to sew.

Probably need more wraps with lighter line. The few times I used it I did 10-12 on light braid. My biggest problem was the finish unravelling. Never bothered to try the Rizuto. Pretty much fish with straight braid. Good luck.