roadwarrior

This thread is a sticky in the upper portion of this section: http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1151590913 8-)

Okay reds_21, You started the thread, got some great advice and resolved the problem. Sounds like we should take your advice and move on. Good night Irene. -Kent a.k.a. roadwarrior Global Moderator 8-)

I'm just observing this thread, not really contributing, but I have to give a to Muddy for his overview and insight: "Been there, done that".

I bought the original, directly from Ray Scott and spoke with the President of U.S. Reel regarding a plastic backing they offered at the time. The reels were first built in St. Louis, but are now assembled or manufactured in China. My experience with the original reel was dreadful and although the reels were recalled for repair or replacement, I was never notified. Specifically, the reel was poorly machined and had rough spots which were very noticeable on retrieve, right out of the box. The reel seemed heavy and unbalanced. Although designed, supposedly, for light line applications, the reel capacity was more suitable for deep sea fishing! On the positive side...Randall, Senior BassResource.com member and professional guide, likes and recommends the new reels. I highly regard his opinions and advice, so keep that in mind. Bottom line: You will have to judge the reel for yourself and see what you think, but be sure you can return the reel if you are not satisfied.

Yep...Trolling cures what ails you...If you don't have a boat, you can accomplish the same result walking and "trolling" your line through grass. 8-)

Well, I feel differently. Although the rod might be more important in terms of "catching" fish, better reels make the "fishing" more fun. On average, my reels represent 67% - 75% of the total cost of my rigs. As an example, a nice spinning combination would be a Shimano Symetre 2500FJ with whatever "house-brand" rod is matched up. The big retailers have their combinations on sale all the time, so just be patient and NEVER pay retail! 8-)

This might help, but for specific recommendations, we need a budget. http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1141187546 8-)

Thanks for the detailed response. Nice fish, great pic and I like that lid, too! 8-)

Nice fish, great pic! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

When Fish Chris is fishing for "Big Bass" I don't think he catches many "dinks". Anyone that "doesn't bother" weighing 7 and 8lb bass is pretty focused. 8-)

Well, he ruined his online reputation this year at Kentucky Lake... Jethro Wurly Burley is a great guy! He's one generous son-of a-gun, too! BTW, The "Dinkmaster" landed the second biggest bass on the trip. 8-)

Very interesting reply. I think this is probably the case for most big bass hunters. 8-)

All the big retailers have combo sales constantly. Buy a 6 1/2' or 7' MF or MXF "house brand" rod that comes with a Shimano Symetre 2500FJ reel. Be patient and NEVER pay retail. These combinations are always on sale, the retailers just rotate their "specials". Also, keep an eye on our Fleas Market. Great deals pop up there all the time, too! 8-)

I''ll take today's Stella. This reels makes fishing more fun! Otherwise, all I need is a 20 or 30 year old plastic worm or jig & pig. Additional "old lures" would include the original Rapala, Rat-L-Trap, Devil's Horse and Lucky 13. 8-)

Yes, you might be able to find a deal on a Citica around $100. MSRP is $120. 8-)

6.2:1 is a universal gear ratio. As far as Quantum goes...

I bought a rod last spring at the local Fishing Exposition. The vendor gave me a spool of Vicious Fluorocarbon to try for free. I spooled it up for one outing. I thought it was worth EXACTLY what I paid for it! :

10" Anaconda, green pumpkin with black flakes. 8-)

Rage Tail Craw, Baby Craw, Lobster and Chunks are all very durable. http://www.ragetail.com/ragetailproducts.html 8-)

WOW! You got a keeper! 8-)

Nice fish, great pics! 8-)

Spinning tackle: Yo-Zuri Hybrid or Hybrid Ultra Soft #6 (.010" diameter, 11.9 breaking strength). 8-)