roadwarrior

So Hottie didn't take up the sport until he was 25.

Hmm... I guess I buy different brands than you. I NEVER change out hooks unless they become dull or break.

Nice fish, great pic!

Sounds good to me!

Why would you not have the boat inspected and the motor tested?

Hmm...That makes no sense to me. Although line stretch can be bothersome, it really does not have that much impact on most fishing techniques that involve relatively short casts (<30 yards). Try using a snap-set so that you maintain constant pressure during and after the initial pop. I suspect you are losing the fish due to slack line before you recover from your power set. I have a GLX MBR842C that might be my favorite rod, too! I don't think the problem is with the rod.

Welcome aboard!

The Avid Series is where St. Croix starts to shine.

Probably not, I think they are for enthusiasts. I have them in several reels, but I don't really get maximum performance. The bearings are too noisy for my taste when run dry.

Katsuage http://www.megabassusa.com/products/katsuage-out-barb-hooks

Stick with what you have.

G.Loomis PR844S/ Stella 2500FD/ Yo-Zuri Hybrid #4/ Gamakatsu Octopus Circle Hooks #6. This is my split shot rig used for fishing live minnows. For weighted soft plastics St. Croix LES70MF/ Stella 2500/ Yo-Zuri Hybrid #4. Weightless soft plastics, especially Senko and Fat Ika, custom build by DVT, MHX-SJ843/ Stella 1000FA/ #4 Hybrid. Grok Custom Rainshadow Immortal IMMWS72ML/ Stella 2500/ #4 Hybrid for light lures and especially the Megabass Ito Vision 110.

Shimano

Too cool!

Black, Black & Blue and PBJ.

Congratulations!

Enough of this, let's move on. Goodnight Irene.

http://www.siebertoutdoors.com/Tungsten-Rocket-Weights-478.htm

Every fishing knot will work just fine if it is properly tied, but "If it ain't perfect, it ain't good enough". Try the 16/20, also known as the Pitzen Knot or Duncan Knot.

We are fortunate to have Mr. Parks sponsoring and participating on the Forum. Thank you, Big O.