GLADES

In addition to bass becoming wise to certain popular lures under heavy pressure from fisherman, it might be possible that large older bass my also associate the sounds of trolling motors to bad experiences. I am not an expert, but I have observed that most of my largest bass were caught when I was drifting or using the trolling motor sparingly. In the straight canals of the everglades, I always keep the wind to my advantage. KM

I recently competed in a TX on lake Istopoga in central FL. I headed to the south end at first light. As the day passed the north wind increased to 25-35 MPH whipping the waves up to 3-5 ft. The lake depth was 2 - 8 ft. My 17 ft Procraft/merc 150 fish and ski handled 3-5 chop rather well running 45 deg to the chop on plane. In my situation, I decided to run northeast, then run northwest - basicly tacking my way back to Hendersons cove on the NW corner of the lake. I ran in the wave valleys for the smothest ride. Make sure all your gear is stored and your trolling motor is strapped down. Life vests and kill switch. I finished in 6th place,my biggest bass was 5.02 lb Hendersons cove is a nice camp.

thanks guys

How often or miles should the bearings be greased with or without bearing buddies. Also, how many miles can you expect from well maintained bearings. Every time I pass a boat trailer with the wheel on a 45 deg angle on the side of the road, I wonder if I am doing correct servicing. Any advice?

Check the fuel line, bulb, and hose fitting where it attaches to the engine. Also, remove the engine cowl and pump the bulb and look closely at the fuel pump for any leaks. KM

Ive been using the zoom white horney toads with zoom 5/0 hooks with mixed sucess. I usually fish them on the surface, pulling them across grass to open water or tossing them up into bullrushes and retrieving on the surface. I get alot of hits, but I hook up only 25%. Should I let the bass run with it? Today I casted across a canal, retrieving the toad, I stopped reeling and let it sink to the bottom while I was having a swig of a fav beverage. The toad sank in 15-20 ft deep water in the center of the canal. a minute later, I started reeling up the slack when a felt weight on the line. I waited a few more seconds and set the hook on a 8 lb bass. The sun was bright and it was around 11AM. Has anyone else had sucess fishing toads deep? I was fishing at Sawgrass in South fl.

One of my buddy's has a hull similiar to that with a highly modified Johnson 300. The front of the boat has a trolling motor and removable chair. He is definately a sick puppy.

In my boat, I fish in the front seat. The front does have the advantage. If we are moving along a shoreline or weed line, I usually space my casts every 10 - 15 yards or so. My buddy will fish in between my casts. If we are flippin, moving more slowly, are presentations are usually closer together. I try not to spook the bass. If either of us get snagged or hung up, we both stop fishing until we are clear. If we have a fish on, the other grabs the landing net. Fairness, patience and teamwork is the key. Now and then, the back seat seems to be "luckier".

I want to buy a low/moderate cost (200-500) portable GPS with tracking and route capabilities. Any recommendations? Thanks

I would have a mechanic inspect the lower main seal on the crankcase. If the seal is worn, you will get seepage from the crankcase. In addition, water will also begin to destroy the bottom bearings. A quick way to check this is to put a rag over the lower carb opening to stall the engine.If the RPM's pick up, it is pulling air from the seal.

Hello, This site is fantastic. Great tips and lots of nice folks. I enjoy all types of fishing, but largemouth bass fishing is my favorite pastime. I fish in central and south florida. Looking forward to sharing my "fish stories".