roadwarrior

Only know about the freshwater version. My two top producers are the Panther Martin (gold blade/ black with chartruse spots) and Rapala Countdown.

No. First of all, bass seem to prefer a softer plastic, i.e. Rage Tail and GYCB. Second, besides the precise profile, the patented ridge makes Rage Tail unique. This particular feature seperates these baits from all others.

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-videos/micro-guides.html I have several rods with micro guides and frankly, I cannot perceive any difference. What say you?

I have often recommended the AVC68MXF. This is the perfect "all-around" rod. St. Croix ratings tend to be conservative, meaning their "medium power" is comparable to G. Loomis "heavy power".

If you are looking for a model to copy, get your hands on a Ledgebuster.

And now there are 76.

"Tackle snobs" or just collectors that have chosen fishing as their hobby? Today's rod & reels are so superior to the equipment we were using a decade ago, I think for a modest price the "catching" part is not significantly effected. However, better equipment makes the "fishing" part more fun!

From a man with a lifetime of experience Salute!

I think you would be a lot happier down the road with two higher quality rigs this year. Going forward you should slowly build your collection as you develop techniques and gain a better perspective on what you "need". I'll suggest two set-ups that I REALLY like: G. Loomis BCR83/ Curado 50 E (Starting today I would go with Curado I) G. Loomis MBR 842C/ Core 50 Mg If you decide to go with several combinations, talk with Ron at Valley Sports about the Pinnacle Tournament Series. At $160 these are a GREAT value. The Optimus XiHS is a fine reel, too!

Pick the colors YOU like, they will work just fine.

I don't consider that a beaver style bait.

That's a beauty!

First "Big Day" of the year at Grove yesterday. Five fish in two hours, all caught on a Sworming Hornet/ LFT Live Magic Shad. We had a large number of crappie fishermen doing very well, too!

I fish gin clear water at Bull Shoals Lake a few times every summer. The most success I have had was targeting smallmouth with jerkbaits and Baby Diaper Yellow Gitzits.

Braid with a leader

Grow the herd slowly and own any brand you like.

That is a great deal!

Guidewear is on sale often. The gear is made to last. Mine is over 10 years old and still looks brand new. No leaks, no tears, no seams splitting. Great value for the long-term.

Best answer.

Rage Tail will be introducing a new bait very shortly. I can't wait for the Big O version!