roadwarrior

I think G.Loomis offers superior rods starting with the IMX series.

Be careful what you wish for...When it rains it pours. Here in Memphis the Mighty Mississippi has been low since last summer, but a couple of years ago the Midwest and Mid South had near record flooding. I expect this spring to bring another round of flooding. A really wet spring could fill the Great Lakes all the way back up, too!

Look closely, you move the brakes up (on) and down (off) with you fingernail. The little clippy things keep the brakes in place, Start with all the brakes on and the spool tension tight, so a 1/2 lead just barely falls. Now go practice! http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/92295-how-to-set-up-a-baitcaster/

Tell us how much you want to spend and what type of reel (spincast, spinning or casting).

I think you probably want an "all-around" rod that you can use for a lot of things including topwater, not just a technique specific stick. Answer Christian's questions and we'll give you some suggestions.

No brainer

Great all-around rod! My main rod for weightless soft plastics is a St. Croix LES70MF.

I have fished with The Man and he works a wacky rig like no one else! I'm not sharing his secret, but maye Rhino will.

You can walk the twist out in the grass. Let most of your line out as you walk 100 yards. Reel in half the line, turn around and walk back. I apply KVD at intervals of about 25 turns.

If you're patient and shop around you might find this rod "gently used" St. Croix Avid AVC70MM

Then 20# whatever you like. The advantage of this particular strength is that it is virtually unbrakable by freshwater fish unless it is nicked. On the otherhand, it cn still be broken if you need to break off. This is a HUGE issue for me on the Tennessee River. Retrivel is not always possible in current and wind, so break off or lose all your line.

Interpreting weather forecasts: Winds 15 - 20mph really means 15 + 20 = 35mph

For smallmouth it's right now below Wilson and Pickwick Dams. Live, big store bought are best. Otherwise try your favorite lures: jerkbaits, grubs, Hollow Belly, Shadalicious, Wiggle Wart, Bandit 200, Silver Buddy and Kietech Swing Impact Fat to name a few. For stripers find the birds. I fish live bait or The Rig.

I know... The first run was not made to Big O's specifications. The current formula is MUCH stronger.

Here is aanother aspect that is not necessarily unique, but is still facinating: The Rig itself represents a school of baitfish, but just as importantly, it tends to attract baitfish. You will often have a real school surround your immitation school. This is one reason you NEVER need to "work" The Rig. Count down to the depth you need and make a steady retrieve. When you feel a little bump it's probably baitfish, so keep reeling!

These are not "brand new", but they may be new to you. I have had GREAT luck with these ever since they were introduced: Menace http://www.ragetail.com/news/color-charts/rage-twin-tail-menace-color-selection/ Shellcracker http://www.ragetail.com/news/color-charts/rage-shell-cracker-color-selection/ Cut-R http://www.ragetail.com/news/08/the-cut-r-worm-new-2014/ Recon http://www.ragetail.com/news/color-charts/rage-recon-color-selection/

Send it to Mike at DVT for a tune-up!

Just about done here guys...Who wants the last word?

Putting someone on their PB!

Whatever you are using for swim jigs will be fine for Hollow Bellies or any other small/ medium weight plastics. My favorite rig is a MBR842C/ Core 50 Mg/ Tatsu #12

Kanzan is what I have been using for about a year. I have had no issues.

Nope, just liked your reply!

I'm using #20 Tatsu.

Simple, huh? Not complicated, no issues...NEVER fails.

Dear Raider, Some mean members have questioned your fishing skills. Tell us a special story including your lure (bait) and gear. I'll bet it's a monster!