The Bassman

Indiana's state record is over 14 but I'm pretty sure it was Fla. strain as the run of fish approaching that size didn't persist for too long. A s.r. just shy of 12# held for many years and was probably northern strain. All these fish came from southern IN lakes. If my history is off @Team9nine's help would be appreciated. Edit; Evidently the current record (which actually was just shy of 15# was in fact northern strain. In a state not particularly known for it's bass fishing that's something to be proud of.

Therapy can be expensive.

I'm guessing you're talking about a D platform Exsence. I'd bet it's the same worm gear as a Core 100/101. Call Shimano at 877-577-0600. Right handed is BNT 3822, left is BNT 3876.

Been giving this some detailed study. Bear in mind that I'm referring to winter east of the Rockies. Like I mentioned in my earlier post other dynamic factors have basically zeroed out El Nino. The consensus is that we're socked in through a good part of Feb. So at least where I live (IN) we're looking at ice all next month which is fine if you ice fish. One has to remember, though that weather is like a pendulum. What's so cold the next few weeks could very easily transition to an early spring. Long range forecasts seem to indicate that. I can remember several late winter blitzes that turned into warm March's. Last year we eased up in Feb. then went cold through Mar. and April. Got to pay for it at some point so might as well get it over with now. I've been a bit delinquent with my business the past month so it's catch up time anyhow.

All my ramblings about catching winter bass in IN were resultant of El Nino keeping us mild. An atmospheric anomaly known as the Arctic Oscillation (AO) has brought a screeching halt to that for us until at least early Feb. I beat half the winter anyhow.

A lot depends on its condition. 200 USD would be OK if it's nearly mint. I wouldn't think the demand is as great as it once was given the quality of reels introduced since then. That said there is a niche of enthusiasts that think that nothing has replaced the E platform, especially the Core 50 and Aldebaran MG's.

I use it a lot. Really don't notice a big effect on braid but it does a great job at freeing up window blind cords. So it must be for real.

I know the feeling. At least if you never saw it you can make it anything you want. Edit. Reread and I guess you did see it. Oh well, it's 3:30 AM.

Surprised no one's mentioned Siebert's.

We're sending it to you. We got lucky and are just getting a couple of inches albeit driven by a 35 mph wind and falling temps. What was it that Arnold said? "I'll be back!"

Same here. I'm waiting right now for the mailman to bring me a new Zodias that I got 30.00 under retail from a legit seller.

I just play what's dealt to me. I'm in central IN and would have put it away two months ago in the past. Drove around looking for open water yesterday and caught seven. As long as there's water to fish I'm open for business.

Either has its merits. Years ago faster ratios tended to bog down under load. 7:1 doesn't feel much different than 6:1 these days. I do know with my spinning reels that have high IPT's I have to be careful not to retrieve certain lures at my normal cadence or they'll turn over. BC doesn't pick up line quite as fast because of spool size.

JDM sites like Digitaka and Japan Lure Shop are always way under retail. Usually no custom fee on stuff in that price range either.

Just ordered some 4# pink. Old Paulus site showed it's abs at over 19#!

Till they're opaque and flake easily.

I know the handle nut trick involves covering the nut with a sandwich bag. I would think the hex driver might slip if you do the same thing. My best solution has always been to keep the bit seated tight so it doesn't slip.

Red shad Culprits, buzzbaits, floating Rapalas, Slug-O's, and more. These would all work as well today. Too many choices. So little time. When I was a teenager it was either a Hubbard Sparkle-Tail (local crank bait) or a Gapen Hairy Worm. In creeks it was a #1 Mepps. Life was simple.

Honestly, I've been waiting for your input. Your knowledge is much appreciated.

I use the Jr. and have found that it needs a jig /swimbait head of some kind to run right and activate the paddle tail.

Maybe this is what you're looking for. Regular pumpkin (not green)?

Noticed yesterday we lost the Gander store in Castleton. Sensed it happening since it opened last year. Hope Greenfield stays open.

Thanks for the info. My whole concern arose from an incident last summer when I broke a tip on a Shimano Zodias (unaltered) rod. All I did was lay the rod over as I was landing a bass and the tip broke cleanly at the first guide. The rod was an E-Bay purchase so no warranty. Everything I read cites user error not defect as being the culprit. Never had issues before.

I don't particularly, but it beats watching football when your team lost last night.

What's better to do the day after a big snow than go fishing. Just a few fun size but better than sitting around. Guides icing up was the biggest hassle.