JLewis134

I don't know if we can ever say the most productive color. There is no such proven facts. Color selection changes based on too many factors. Sometimes it's just presenting the bait properly at the right location, at a fish willing to bite. While fishing can be scientific, it's not a pure science. They are still living creatures. Your basis of evidence is purely anecdoctal response (not based scientifically, rather individual's experience). I honestly think if you threw a black jig and a black/blue jig presented the same, the results would be nearly identical (test would be impossible as too many variables change from location, the way you present a bait, fish, fish activity, time of day, cast, etc.) If you tested it enough, it would be close to a wash.

Zooms baits often deform and have issues as they are just thrown in a bag and kink up. Boiling solves the issues most of the time. However, the price point is usually much cheaper. Strike King knocked it out of the park with the clam packs which ensures the product stays perfect

Not again...

Have toadface that never gets to ride on the boat. Never was a fan at all of any of the ALX rods. Selling them all off. Disappointed in them. I'd opt for a Shimano, St Croix, G Loomis, Phenix, Megabass, Daiwa instead. My personal opinion.

?????? Had days like it before. Don't think too much of it

Highly recommend buddy. Yes sir.

Incredible rod! Highly recommend. Balances well. The new AGS guides are a great touch! It's really not that heavy. The Dobyns 735C Champion weighs the same amount if that helps. Balance is important. It doesn't feel heavy in hand at all especially for a 7'4 H

It doesn't have to be perfect. It's just a general rule of thumb. I go by my gut feeling. Do what feels right to you.

Hahaha. I agree. Monofilament lines I have tried are not my cup of tea. I feel like buying a high end rod and reel and putting monofilament on it is like buying a new car with bald tires. I throw mono as little as possible.

Goodluck with that. At shows, like Efishin said you can get a deal but it's not usually on new product. Usually on discontinued product or product in the process of being phased out.

At the price, Shimano, Megabass, Daiwa, G Loomis is the way to go. Don't ask me why as I buy too much lol. I was left with a feeling of something to be desired with ALX so I sold them.

Absolutely! It's very good line. After fishing it, I can't fish original Power Pro anymore.

50 lb Power Pro V2 for isolated cover, 65 lb Power Pro V2 for heavy cover. I really like Smackdown but its not as abrassion resistant as the Power Pro V2. I really like Smackdown and never any failure issues however it does fray easier than 832 and Power Pro V2 so I have to retie more. Prefer it for swim jigs and throwing 20 lb braid to 8 lb leader for dropshots. PP V2 and Smackdown are my preferred braids but 832 is good too

Not a ALX fan. In the 250-350 dollar range, Expride, Poison Adrena, Megabass Orochi XX, IMX Pro. The Ark Reinforcer and Miller Rods are ones that look interesting as well that I haven't tried.

Spinning: Daiwa Regal, Abu Garcia Vengeance. Casting: Shimano SLX setup

Daiwa Rebellion, Phenix M1, St Croix Avid X

I think you'll be happy man. Keep us updated on how you like it. Plus stay safe during this craziness. Tight lines buddy!

Yea

Revo EXD is another option. It's a nice reel. I have been cranking with it and been impressed. Lightweight and is a solid performer.

100% agreed. Round reels are excellent reels and hard to beat up but man they are heavier.

I collect non-round reels lol. No need for an anchor. I have power poles ! Plus spot lock!

The Calcutta 200 weighs 9.4 oz, I have setups that way less lol. All kidding a side, I prefer a Tatula 150, Curado DC

Price isn't the problem for me but the Calcutta 200 is a bit heavy for my liking. The Calcutta reels are great reels! But I find other options more attractive for my application.

If I felt my line was compromised, then I could just reduce my drag during the fight. It's quick and simple. Its extremely quick and easy to do. If you see a fish taking you into cover, you can also apply more drag by holding the spool or adjusting the drag on the reel thus applying more drag both ways. Still have yet to see/hear an advantage for backreeling.

7'6 H Expride is a really nice rod for your application. I'm not fond of Dobyns personally. The Expride is a great series of rods.