LAO162

Thanks Ronnie, For kicks I was checking out the 724 on-line today... Sounds like I would have trout stream flashbacks if I went with the spinning version

Thanks Tin, is your Castaway the MM Casting Model (MB60) and what are you using for a reel on it.

Thanks Burley Trying to interpret these descriptions Floroclear is low visibility with low memory, CX has improved sensitivity and low memory. I think I've hear that CX is stronger. Am I close? I've had good experiences with 6# Floroclear. However, I've been wondering how visible the CX is under water.

Congrats on the new outfit. I just got my first order from Tackleware house - I'm also a pleased client. Bummer about the scatches. I tried writing something funny (but didn't succeed...) I have a tendency to put scatches in anything that is new and high quality. However, once the first scratch happens, I can then enjoy using the equipment rather than worrying about keeping up its appearance. Looking forward to hearing how well the combo works for you. Leon

What's your favorite rod that is 6 feet or less in length? What situations and techniques do you use it for? I'm thinking it might be good to have a shorter rod to fish from shore in areas surrounded by brush. Thanks

Great comparisons here. Great example of comparisons versus criticismns. Kept it simple - good choices either way, but purchasers considers weight advantage vs. balance. Also described why there was a difference (lead in butt). Thanks!!

Thanks

Thanks, should I practice with heavier line first?

Are there any tips on tying the Arbor Knot? Usually, I can't get it to hold, and when it does it's not very snug to the reel. Any suggestions? It's probably taboo, but I ended up tying through the drilled holes in the spool & tying an clinch knot. Leon

How about the $120 rainjacket from Fenwick that throws in a free HMG ;D http://www.fenwickfishing.com/media/File/095858FenwickRainJack1.19.5Coupon.pdf

I fish from shore in fairly skinny water. I like cranks, but only shallow cranks. While it can be productive to bump the bottom with a crank, in my waters if I try that I end up casting 100 feet and reeling back leaves and weeds for 90 feet. Lots of great suggestions above. I'm sometimes a fan for the big bulky, built like a tank tacklebox. After a couple of hours standing on a damp day, it sure beats sitting on the mud ;D

At the upper end of your range the Revo S is $91 at www.all-americanoutdoors.com. *** would probably get it to you for about the same price shipped.

Every week the baitmonkey pushes me in a new direction. This week a drove by a pond near my house that I don't usually think about. There's easy access by the road, but woods and thickets around most of it. I started thinking, the all the best looking places were away from the road, so how would I walk through the brush to get to those isolated areas... Once in a while I see a 5'6" or 6' rod on clearance. I may have some justification now Of course, since I'm going to start taking my 10 year old daughter with me, I might stick with the open water areas. Today, the banana trail was leading me to look for the 6' MHF Daiwa L&T. Seems pretty versatile and they have a lot of loyal users. Cheers!

Right now, my main rods are 6'6" and 7'. You're helping the bait monkey see the need for another new, shorter rod Thanks

Thanks, I've actually been considering 6' or even 5'6" to make it easier to pass through the bushes. Also easier to cast around tree limbs. Guess it might help with accuracy to. I'm also leaning towards MH, since most likely I'll be fighting through the brush to get to the areas that have heavier structure. Since I value casting distance from the shore, It's encouraging to see that you do well with 6'6" rods. That would make the rod a more versatile. Thanks for the ideas

I'm getting closer to that point with my Revo S-L. I have to get the same confidence to really snap on the cast like I do on my spinning outfit to get some extra distance. Cheers

Don't forget to check out the Daiwa Exceler for $69. Great casting & line management.

This suggestion might be taboo on a Loomis thread , but if you're biking to the water hole the 2-piece version might be easier to transport. I admire your ambition and dedication. What are you going to use for a reel? Have Fun!

Interesting that Purefishing's Fenwick Techna AV recently moved away from stainless guides to Alconite...

I have a Fenwick Techna AV and I think my Browning Midas (boron) is in the same league. You might check out the Midas while last years model are on sale at BPS for $80. I have the 6'6" S-piece. Light and sensitive. You might want to move up MH if you were to use 1/2 oz spinner baits or do a lot of jig fishing. Cheers However, HMG from Amazon (price matched from TW) is a safe bet with a lifetime warranty. Cheers

I fish from shore, usually from open areas where a long rod helps get a little more distance. But, I'm thinking of moving to some other ponds that are surrounded by brush etc. How short a rod would you use, is there a preference in power/action and are spinning or baitcasting reels preferred? Thanks

Last year I like my RH reel, but found cranking with my right hand too distracting. Was going to replace it with another spinning rig, but decided to give Baitcasting another chance with a LH model. So far, I'm only worrying about my thumb and not being distracted by cranking with the "wrong" hand. Cheers

Very timely thread with some great links. Someone just planted the fly fishing seed in my head.

Amazon has about the best price on Fenwick Techna AV, HMG & HMX. *** will price match if they have the same one in stock. You might also consider the Browning Midas (Boron) Rods. Last year's models are on clearance @ BPS. $79 last time I checked. Don't tell anyone, I'm hoping they last until I can justify another . Although I've had my Techna AV out only once so, I find the Midas to be in the same league. Tough direct comparison, though, because the Techna is much beefier. As long you have the receipt, you should still be covered under warranty. Also might be an excuse to move up the StC spectrum for only $100. Good Luck

Whichever one has a LH version ;D