roadwarrior

For me it's a guy like Fish_Chris: Big fish; a variety of species; numerous locals. The only thing that bothers me is living in California. It's kinda like cheating!

Nope.

There are several threads running in the "Tournament Talk" section. Please repost your thoughts on one of those threads. -Kent a.k.a. roadwarrior Global Moderator

Well, the good news... There was a similar controversy over the World Record Smallmouth Bass that was resolved after a period of a little more than 50 years. Davis Hayes was eventually vindicated, but we can credit that to Bassmaster Magazine. The most interesting part, and what separates Mr. Hayes from Mr. Perry, is the fact that Hayes had his fish skin mounted! 8-)

I've been experimenting with clips and don't notice any problems with hard baits. However, I still direct tie single hooks, especially jigs and soft plastics. 8-)

Welcome aboard! Please read FAQs and note this for future posts: https://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1172273207

Welcome aboard! 8-)

They are designed to stand up well with a variety of baits. My preferred soft plastic is the GYCB Kahuna Kut-Tail, but I have had success with the Roboworm 6" Shakin' Zipper and GYCB Flappin' Hog. Although most people use a smaller presentation, I like them big! You will probably catch more fish with finesse baits, but most of the bass I've caught on the Shak-E2 have been 4 lbs and better. 8-)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

I am sorry to hear of your loss. -Kent

Welcome aboard! Someone will be along shortly with comments. 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

You certainly don't "need" technique specific rods, but lots of guys are "collectors". Having exactly the right set-up to fish a lure class makes the "fishing" more fun even if it has little impact on the "catching". Three rods can cover it all, but I only carry one rod and fish one lure class when I fish a pond. 8-)

I fish Evolution Shak-E2 exclusively: http://www.megastrikefishingproducts.com/shop/ 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

You can send it to Shimano, any local repair shop or David Green, The Reel Mechanic. This is one of Shimano's most popular reels. Parts and service are readily available. 8-)

It's cheaper to send out new reels than fix the broken or defective ones. Quantum has become very efficient over the years in dealing with returns. They sell zillions of reels with a good profit margin. This allows them to account for problems as "the cost of doing business". Most people will find the reels to be very good in intial quality. :-X

:-/ Busted!

Welcome aboard! I'm sure someone will be along shortly with suggestions. Mine would be to look into options in Maine. Their smallmouth reputation is a well kept secret. Both numbers and size! 8-)

Thank you! 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)