FishinBuck07

In open water for smallies you should be just fine, I would think as much as they jump and thrash the lighter rod might be better. But then again I have been wrong before, just ask my wife!!!?

I use a 7:5.1 for squarebills and a 6:8.1 for chatterbaits, don't know if that is correct but that is what I like! I don't think there is any set standards for what speed reels to use, think it is all personal preference!

I won some free baits from him on Instagram last year! It was a bag of mixed baits, caught fish on some of them. They held up pretty good for how soft they were, if I needed plastics and he had what I needed I would definitely order from him. I believe he is in the military and the baits are a side gig, so be patient if you do order off him!

Compact jig I like the missile baits mini flip and also one of Molix's jig but can't remember the exact model! Kento maybe?

I really appreciate your response here, you have given me some good ideas of what to expect! I rented a house that is directly on the lake near Seneca Falls, thought that way my brother and I can have more fishing time. May 19 is when we are going so I figure the largemouth most likely be in prespawn and the smallies may be spawning. But just my thoughts.

Palomar knot is fine as long as the line doesn't cross itself, and you wet it down before pulling tight. I have been using the San Diego jam knot the past two years, going to try the double Pitzen knot this year and see how that works also!

I would send it back again! Those rods are way too expensive to have those issues, sounds like quality control is not working at St Croix.

Weightless plastics, and maybe shakey head and finesse jigs with a light hook

Squarebill or DT10 depending on depth I am searching in!

Not to sound stupid but how do I know if I need the removable step at the bottom? Is there a certain measurement to take before I order the steps? Sorry for my stupidity just wouldn't want to spend all that money and not get what I needed.

For you folks with trailer steps, which brand is preferred? Wanting to get some here soon and was wondering which ones are more preferred?

The free course should be all you need as long as it is approved by the ODNR. I took the test in college, I was born before 82 but it was a requirement for my degree.

I know here we are allowed to use 3 hooks, I bought the 3 wire yumbrella rig to start out with and see if I will even like throwing it. I just hear so many different options for heads and swimbaits, just was trying to see what the average of what guys on here use also!

For you guys that throw the A Rig what size swimbaits do you use the most? Also what size jig heads you using the most?

You southerners better be out there fishing darn it! I am sitting here in the house freezing and some of you are wondering if you need to go fishing? If it is warm enough to go fishing then go!!!!!

Bought a 7'4" glass SLX today and a 6.3:1 reel for it! Gonna be my new mid depth cranking rod.

I have four brands, Cashion, Dobyns, Shimano, and Pflueger.

Tropical heat wave!! Bust out the shorts!!

You shouldn't watch those guys! They cost people lots of money!!!?

Will be watching for your review, these have my interest.

Mucinex will keep the crap from building up in your lungs also! Keep feeling better!

I was hoping to hear some positives about these rods! I plan on buying the 7'2" to throw medium diving cranks on this next season.

Hasn't happened yet! And if it does hopefully the good Lord takes me home at that moment!

This is something else I need to do! Quit getting myself spun out about the fish I am not catching and just enjoy the fact that I am out there on the water!

If you want braid made in USA, try Cortland braid. It is made in Cortland,NY