roadwarrior

Here is my suggestion for learning to tie new knots: Get a medium/small diameter cotton rope. Pratice tying your knot to the handlebar of a lawn mower or something that allows you to stand up and see all around the knot. This will burn the structure into your mind and the knot will "make sense".

Bud...Bud...Bud...Budweiser I always liked those frogs!

I can't answer that question, the key is how well the rod and reel balance. Regardless of the gross weight, a well balanced rig will feel virtually weightless in your hand.

You need your own.

Well, for my money it would be the Curado 50E

Pete's at a bit of a disadvantage. He will have to bring his own fish to Oklahoma. I don't think Grand Lake has any smallmouth.

I think you described "it" perfectly! When I switched my jig rig to braided line, the touch was amplified. Braid has made a significant difference in my jig fishing. I am still experimenting with a fluorocarbon leader vs. direct tie.

Yes, the Palomar Knot is fine, but any other knot that you like will work, too. Yo-Zuri Hybrid does not require a special knot.

I'm a collector and like everything technique specific. You can do just about all of your fishing with one rig, three really covers the field. So, that is where to start. Over time you may decide to be more specific and buy equipment that is designed for a particular situation. An example is a set-up for deep diving crankbaits only. If you already have a jig rod, you don't really "need" a rig for this application, but if you fish deep cranks a lot, you will appreciate technique specific.

That's probably my favorite. I also fish the Shadalicious, Hollow Belly and on The Rig, LFT Live Magic Shad. The newest entry in the "small" category is the Rage Tail Menace. If you haven't fished it yet, you're in for a treat!

Rage Baby Craw, Craw & Lobster

Great advice!

There we go!

Nice catch!

For shallow crankbaits: Avid AVC70MM Deep divers: Lamiglas SR705R is THE BOMB!

Me, too!

Mine come in little plastic pouches with the weight marked on the bags.

Both JFrancho and 00 Mod own these reels: http://www.bassresource.com/fishing_lures/pinnacle-DHC5-performa-review.html For about the sme price another option is the Symetre 2500FJ

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Over the years, the Smithwick Rogue has been my biggest producer.

Welcome aboard! http://www.raymarine.com/view/?id=4954

Welcome aboard! Our newest sponsor. http://www.lurenet.com/brands/smithwick-lures?cn=WB82&att=WB82

Big O says it is important, too. All of my weights and jig heads are painted.

Heads Up!

I'm also a fan of the KVD 3.5. I have a picture of the lure and a nice fish that pops up on the Home Page occasionally.