GReb

I have a Zolo twitch. 6’8 ml+. Great for smaller topwater, jerkbaits, and small cranks. They also make a 6’8 m

Interesting. I’ve never fished a USDM model to compare it to but haven’t noticed any thumb bar or brake inconsistencies

Why? I’ve abused mine for over a year with no issues. Assuming your are talking about the 20 Met

Maybe ignorance, but what does the female do after laying the eggs anyways? The males protect the fry

I’ve sold all of my non MGL Shimanos. The K is an outstanding performing reel for the price but has horrendous ergo dynamics for 2022. The 150 MGL is a good choice. Alternatively…the Tatula Elite is an amazing reel that can handle anything. It would be a great option as well.

Sunglasses and liquids are the only two that would make me put the boat back on the trailer but I’d just go in the bait shop at the ramp and buy some.

I have the most success on darker colors. My go to is the thunder cricket bluegill pattern with a black/blue trailer. White and Shad patterns have never produced for me.

Expect big bags

“When first introduced in 1995, Falcon’s LowRider series defied convention by using small, single-footed, rod guides. These guides also sat lower, resting much closer to the blank. Compared to other rods of similar length, there were also more guides. These much smaller, more numerous, guides worked to limit line slap and friction up the entire length of the rod, resulting in longer casts. The “low-profile” rod was born”

I have 3 Experts and 2 Caras but all are casting models. I’d probably pick a Cara for finesse applications but I absolutely love the blank used on the Expert. It’s a tad softer and slower than the Cara. You can typically find better deals on the Expert.

For me…double willows are only used for Shad spawns and burning the bait just under the surface. In colder water you generally want a slower retrieve. Colorado will provide more lift and vibration. If the water has more than a foot of visibility I’d start with tandem blades.

I’ll make you a deal on a like new Dobyns SA703

Yep. 5-6 power would fit the bill. Also don’t be afraid to call Falcon directly. They are happy to answer questions and make recommendations

Still no hook holder?

Single stack 9mm. Let her hold them and decide

I use a $45 Quantum Icon PT. It has an aluminum frame, pinion support and solid drag. More importantly if it quits I am not out much money. Where I fish frogs in the thick pads and slop a high performing, smooth reel is not needed.

I bought one of the fiberglass rods about 15 years ago. It sucked. I’m pretty sure a pine branch has more sensitivity.

15 Lb mean green

It took 64lb to win the 4 day pro circuit this time last year. However in a 5 fish tournament you can win on largemouth. In the MLF format you need a bunch of 2-3lb spots. Chasing 5 largemouth bites won’t win

Save the money and get the Curado mgl

I can’t wait to watch Wiggins and the Lees tomorrow. Smith is an amazing lake. Don’t sleep on the largemouths although they may not play as much of a factor in this format.

Here’s a thought Daiwa: - discontinue of the Tatula CT frame models. Only keep the Fuego - rename the Tatula Elite, just Elite - the other 100 size reels remain Tatula so you just have Tatula and Tatula SV - name these new models Alphas since that’s what they are

If you have found a rod line that you love why try to top it? What are you trying to improve? We all have our individual preferences and certain brands that fit our style. You can burn through a lot of money and time trying other brands. I’ve been there before. I have bought and sold a lot of St Croix, Dobyns, Shimano, Kistler, etc and have settled on Falcon and ALX. I owned and loved my Falcons before I bought a lot of those chasing what others said was better. It wasn’t for me. Point is, if you have rods you love it may be better off expanding your lineup with more of those rods. Don’t get hung up on price, reviews, recommendations, or looks. However if you aren’t completely satisfied or comfortable on the water the $200-250 price range has a lot of really amazing sticks. Even certain rods below that price stand out.

The Bass Pro in Memphis at the Pyramid is incredible.

Sounds like a dream for Wheeler and his livescope