Big-Bass

Right now, the yen is so low that deals can be found that might otherwise save $50-100 right off the top.

The SV103H and SV103XS came out in 2015 for a limited time and were discontinued in 2017. They retailed for $299.99 and had brass gears, aluminum body and sideplates, and a 34mm spool (like the TD-Z, Steez, etc.) instead of the 36mm spool of the OG Zillion (and TD-Z 100M). They were also made in Japan like the older Zillion reels. They were also only made for the U.S. market with no Japanese counterpart. As I have said on here before, they are my favorite reels and use them often and have a few still NIB as I feel the quality of this reel is better than most on the market now (aside from the 21 Calcutta Conquest). Plus the upgrade (fun) parts can make the reel even more enjoyable to fish.

Do you seal the cork knobs with U40? How is the quality of the cork? I have used Jitai, Heighten, and GoMexus handles. I really like the CF versions and you can even find adapters for Shimano 7x4mm vs. Daiwa/Abu 8x5mm size handles.

Thank you!

I have found that fishing every day (while fun and more realistically 4-5 time per week) in my 20's left me wanting to fish even more. In my 30s I fine tuned my tackle, my techniques, and caught some of my biggest fish. Right now, with a young family who is starting to become interested in fishing, the simplicity of little things is back. Happiness is always a giant bass, but sometimes it is a child with a bluegill on a mealworm with a bobber. I have more gear than I can use and a collection of reels (both vintage and new) that is my hobby and collection, but as I sit here writing this and watching TV with my kids this morning, I think we may go out in a bit and catch some sunfish...it will be a happy day!

I am thinking of throwing those on a Megabass Levante Perfect Pitch. I have been throwing Dark Sleepers on it and it has been terrific so far. I picked up a few of the Megabass Sleeper Gills last week so I think they are very similar to the Savage gill.

I like the longer handles too (90-100mm) but I have to have flat knobs. My favorites are the old Daiwa TD-Z style and the RCS style. Carbon fiber handles can be found for good prices too if you look around instead of a few years ago when most (or all) were $100+. This little 80 reels seems like a nice option, especially with a longer handle.

Welcome!

What rod are you using for the baits? Thanks for the heads up on the hooks.

Isn't there an old school 4-5' Slider rod that Charlie created with a Tennessee grip? Can't imagine a short rod like that now for bass.

Thanks Tom. I typically use InvizX but figured this might be worth a try.

Have you seen the new Zillion HD reels? Based off the newer Zillion, they are pretty sweet!

How do you like the Savage Gear Bluegill? I saw them a few weeks ago before the Sleeper Gill came out and am curious. Thanks.

I purchased some 4lb. Basix and put it on a little trout combo and I can say that this line is pretty darn manageable and seems to be a decent quality for the price I got it for online. Does anyone have any experience with 12lb.+ on baitcasting gear and can offer any insight? Thank you.

And the new red knobs lol. Still, a fun little reel that is affordable.

The St. Lawrence is a great fishery but the fish will be all over as far as spawn and post spawn. The best bet is to search around, learn the waters, enjoy the time spent, and hopefully catch some great fish! Best wishes on the water!

Casting: SV103XS and SV103H (also the Megabass IP68) Spinning: Luvias Airity LT 4000CXH and Certatat LT 4000CXH

How old in the crankin' stick?

Very limited Abu/DaySprout 100th Anniversary Cardinal 3 CDL w/ 24k gold plating. A very nice reel.

Which Smallmouth rods do you have? I love my ET Smallmouth 6'9" ML XF spinning rod.

Anyone have any more info on these? They seem to be spec'd very similar to the old ET Smallmouth series. https://www.purefishing.com/products...39761655103621

I was actually researching the rod and forgot about the 2008 one I got (which is since no longer in my possession). I found it funny that I bought another. I cleaned up the Citica this morning and it literally looks brand new.

Adding a response to a really one old... Today at a flea market I picked up a 5'6" Mitchell Fulcrum casting rod with a pistol grip handle that has an extension to the handle like a modern split grip. The rod is 5'6" and rated for 1/4-1oz. It came with a really nice Shimano Citica 200B reel. Grand total: $5 I had to share since I posted many years ago about a similar rod and good price.

Good luck with your new boat.

1974 Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500C. Simply cleaned with an aftermarket handle.