roadwarrior

Here are some suggestions: http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1143177139 8-)

Great post! I was glad to see avid out there with you. I'm sure, good times had by all. 8-)

Well, except the bigger guys! Seriously, when smallmouth reach 4-5 lbs their bulk comes into play. Whether this is more strength or a combination of power and water resistance, I don't really know, but the difference is exillerating! 8-) 8-)

http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1208701301 Perhaps the main difference is bottom composition. Smallmouth will seek gravel flats if they are available. Otherwise, hard bottoms (rock) in general. Also, if current is an option, smallmouth will spawn in current. On a river, gravel flats are highly prized breeding areas. The temperature question is debatable, but as I noted in the previous thread, Tennessee River smallmouth spawn with temperatures either side of 50 degrees. Light seems to play a more important role in determining the season. 8-)

Wait a minute...We have had a pretty interesting discussion so far, let's stay on track. This is not another "Senko vs. your favorite" thread... Please. 8-)

Hey Beast! As long as you were going through all that effort, why not make it look bigger? : 8-)

Welcome aboard! Although I don't fish braid, in the situation you describe, that is what I would recommend. 30/8 will be just fine on a spinning reel and you will break the rod before you break the line! Set your drag at a level you are comfortable with verses the rod's capabilities and you will be fine. 8-)

I don't use a swivel and I don't experience line twist except when I get fouled-up with salad. For a relatively inexpensive lure, the blade is surprisingly well machined and does not catch. 8-)

This list might make things easier. Here are a lot of guys favorites: http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1143177139 8-)

"Freak" baits = creature baits Several are very popular. I fish a few, independently and as a jig trailer. My favorites are the GYCB Kreature, Flappin' Hog and Reaction Innovation Double Wide Sweet Beaver. 8-)

Well, it's really that simple, isn't it... 8-)

No. I have followed this thread for five pages with hardly a peep from the Shimano guys. The question is: Why did YOU diss Shimano on a Quantum thread? : Let's stay on topic and I suspect the posse will keep their distance. 8-)

Welcome aboard! Nice fish. 8-)

Spinning tackle: Yo-Zuri Hybrid Ultra Soft #6 (.010" diameter, 11.9 lb test) Baitcasting gear: Ultra Soft #12 (.013" diameter, 19.5 lb test) 8-)

Well, you might beat that train through the crossing, too... :

Man, that's great news. I know you will make Jones Roofing the best in the business. Congratulations! 8-)

You must be fishing too fast: http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1158577137 8-)

What I have observed is that spots "usually" have a rough tongue, but not always (largemouth never do). Spots and smallmouth sometimes have red eyes, but not always. Kentucky bass are all over the region, but generally not stocked in ponds. 8-)

They have an accent.

Well, that's cheating! : Another beauty and PB (kinda). Who da man? Fish Chris, you da MAN! 8-) p.s. As always, beee-U-tiful picture.

The real question is not "what to fish", but "where to fish". Start with structure in, or adjacent to, deeper water. Steeply sloped main points are classic examples; "drops" or ledges, humps, large boulders or rock piles are others, but the focus is moving away from the bank! Suggested lures: Jerkbaits, 3 1/2" Gitzit, 3/4 oz Ledgebuster Single Willow Blade, Fat Ika, GYCB Single Tail Hula Grub and hair jigs. Topwater, Spook or Sammy, is another choice early and late. Others may suggest crankbaits, but I have never caught big smallmouth with them. Good luck! 8-)

Welcome aboard! You will be happy with either reel. I have been fishing Shimanos for a few years and have never been disappointed. 8-)

Check with TW, I'm sure they will take care of you. 8-)

Welcome aboard! 8-)

The "offset" doesn't tear the plastic, you match the hook exit with the top of the hook to hold the bait. RoLo, Interesting point which has come up a lot lately. Personally, I don't miss many with the traditional EWG, so the line angle does not seem to come into play. For bigger soft plastics, 7" Senko, I use a 5/0 Offset Shank, Round Bend. 8-)