The Bassman

I find that I have to use heavier spinning gear now because of what I call the "grass doughnut" that forms around the perimeter of the ponds I fish. If I don't keep the fish's head up I get buried real quick.

Any of the LT's top to bottom would be perfect. I have two Fuego LT's and they're great.

I've had an excellent first six months with many fish, a couple over 5 lbs. I fish smaller neighborhood lakes almost daily. With hot weather now I like to transition to wading creeks which are finally dropping.

Check out Shimano's JDM Bass One XT on e-bay. I've got one paired with my Chronarch MGL and it feels much more refined than its price point. You can't tell it's two piece. Handle is identical to Zodias and rod weight is very light.

Seaguar uses JDM line ratings. Stated test is lower than USDM. Diameter is what counts, not stated breaking strength.

Skeeters gotta eat, too!

The ponds I fish dictate what I use. Things are scummy now so plastics get a lot of play. For clean water I enjoy reaction baits like lipless. Wind also plays a role in my choices. Less wind, more worms and such. They all have their moments.

Not the best way to introduce yourself.

I let loose a wild pitch with my baitcasters more often than I'd like to admit. I'm pretty consistent with my spinning.

It's all about the journey, not the destination. I keep learning all the time.

Just stay here.

I recognize the location in the pic. Indy's interstates are full of low life. I see it every day in my commutes.

Great tip. I'm betting my hookup rate with my Choppo should improve now.

Stocked up on a bunch of 4" Yamamoto Senkos last fall then "discovered" Fat Ika. Haven't looked back. I do like smaller worms but summer vegetation has me using stouter spinning tackle so the Ika really shines.

Had to think about that a couple of seconds. Touche'!

I used them quite a bit in the past until I had one break on an average fish.

This. ^^^

Just soak them in solvent (mineral spirits, acetone, lacquer thinner), spin them on the spool shaft and air dry for a little while. Re-oil and you're done. Purists use an ultrasonic cleaner but this way your bearings will be plenty fast. Set your brakes a bit higher at first or you'll get a surprise on your first cast.

So said Bill Dance.

Braid to mono dia. comparisons are very inaccurate by reason that braid is not solid. No matter how much it is sold as being round it is not. Braids take up more space on a reel than their mono "equivilant" lb. test.

Thanks for the tip. I service my baitcasters but avoid my worm gear for this reason. I just clean and lube it as best as I can while still assembled.

I have a Curado 100B with a Chronarch 50 MG spool and upgraded handle. It takes no back seat to any of my newer and pricier stuff.

Daiwa PMA 10

Ditto in central IN. Better things on the horizon.

Mix up your retrieve. Let it fall a little then give it a pop. Hang on.