roadwarrior

It's easier for me to replace the split ring at the same time. I attach the hook and keep the gap open to rig onto the lure.

I think fish prefer a softer texture which has proven to be pretty effective for GYCB, too!

You would have to find one "gently used", but the G.Loomis BCR893 would be my recommendation. I think I paid $225 for mine from a member on our Flea Market.

I don't think there is any reason to rehash this subject except to pick a fight. Anyone that is really interested in the World Record knows that Dottie was The One: http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?207332-Huge-pig-of-a-bass-pic

I'm not really sure whether hooks or line are the most important tackle we buy, but everything else is a distant 3rd. I like several brands, but XPoint is probably my favorite. I fish Trokar, Gamakatsu, Owner, Mustad, VMC and on hard baits, Katsuage.

No

Thanks Mike!

The rigging instructions have been edited: There are lots of rigging options, but Big O specifically noted that if you are fishing it like a traditional worm or Senko, rig the Cut-R Worm tail up. If you are swimming the bait, tail down.

As I stated in the original post, Big O told me it would be a couple of weeks.

Both rods deserve a new Stradic Stradic CI4+ http://fish.shimano.com/

Vinegar works, too. Wash thoroughly, rinse with vinegar then wash again with soap.

I agree for the most part. What I was suggesting is that minor adjustments can be made to the spool tension without changing the brakes. An example might be throwing a spinnerbait into a slight breeze.

One of my favorite attributes of Shimano centrifugal braking systems is they are basically "one and done". I suppose if you vary the lure weight a lot on a single rig, you're going to need to make adjustments. However, on a dedicated rig the only adjustments that are usually needed are with the spool tension.

There are lots of rigging options, but Big O specifically noted that if you are fishing it like a traditional worm or Senko, rig the Cut-R Worm tail up. If you are swimming the bait, tail down.

WOO-HOO!

This is my take: Spinning tackle is very "user friendly" and the learning curve is short. I prefer spinning tackle for lighter lures, generally referred to as finnesse. Baitcasting gear is a bit more challenging, especially with "entry level" equipment. Modern reels have dramatically reduced the problems beginners usually face. The learning curve is a bit steeper, but certainly not insurmountable. I prefer a baitcaster for both heavier lures and anything that involves continuous retrivel. This is generally referred to as power fishing. In terms of effectiveness, control or power, there is no significant differences for experienced fishermen. Both can be tweaked for light or heavy applications. All of the major brands offer a rod, reel or combination to address virtually every situation.

Big O was in town Monday and invited me to dinner. We had a great evening and good conversation. It's not surprising how much work is involved in designing new products. Input from 28 Strike King/ Rage Tail Prostaff is something that brings on the water expience from Tournament Pros into the equation. Mr. Parks left me with a few samples of the new Rage Tails, but I have only fished the Cut-R Worm so far. This may be the Next New Thing! The action and profile REALLY appealed to the bass in my local pond. I think everyone is going to have a new favorite worm. This bait and the others introduced at ICAST should be available at your favorite retailer in a couple of weeks. http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-videos/rage-tail-2013.html

I think he meant DSG....D ick's Sporting Goods.

Lookin' good!

Avid AVC69MXF or Pinnacle DHC5-701CAMCB

#1 is the MegaBug for both smalljaws and green fish. I'm also using the Fat Shad as a swim jig trailer with good success.

You have a lot of choices at your pricing point. I suggest being patient and buying your rod from our Flea Market. The majority of my rods & reel were purchased there.

The 893 is a great rod for all weightless soft plastics. I think it's a HUGE advantage for fishing from the bank where long cast sometimes come into play.

I have had mixed results and DO NOT put it in the bag anymore. Specifically with some MegaStrike MegaBugs, the colors bled and the baits hardened. Putting the goo on indiviually makes more sense to me.

I don't know about the fish, but I care. I want my line to match or compliment the rod & reel. Green looks great on Curados, white or clear for Core and Purple Smoke on my spinning tackle.