MidwestBassAttack

Just got pre-order information for the 2022 Bantam…..looks super sharp….order is in!!!

Looking for feedback on a current model Loomis GLX 854C. Rod will be used for 3/8 and 1/2 jigs and Texas rigs with a 5/16 or 3/8 weight for worms and creatures. I had an NRX+873CRR but did not like the recoil guides at all. Also had a GLX 895c that was sold due to how tip heavy it was. Any feedback from any users? #1 - is the 4 power suited for what I want to throw? #2 - how is the balance? I’m afraid of it being tip heavy like my old 895.

Was just browsing on JDM Tackle Heaven and they have placeholders for a Shimano 2022 Aldebaran with a release date of April. Wonder if a USDM version will follow….

I’ll be using my tried and true Zooms as always but I’m also going to try the Creme worms as well. That “live” color has my interest. Zoom’s will be Ol’ Monsters and Mag II’s. Green pump, Junebug, Plum, Tequila Sunrise.

Aside from trying a few of the Halo HFX rods, same techniques from past seasons will still remain in 22’ for me. One thing I will be doing as a bank banger….moving around the lake more. I just love being out by the water and fishing, I have a tendency to camp at one spot and not move. This season I plan on moving around the lake more.

Happy 2022 everyone! While dwelling in the ice doldrums of the Chicago-area and chomping at the bit for open water season, the bait monkey is on my shoulder. Has anyone here had experience with Halo rods? In particular the HFX series? Was looking at them online and they seem to have many profiles available for all techniques and the price is easily attainable at only $150. Anyone here have any hands-on experience that could provide some insight and thoughts? I’m currently using the new Falcon Cara’s.

I must say, I’m typically a Shimano reel guy but am following this thread closely. When I first saw pictures a few months back I thought to myself, “now that is a sharp looking reel”. I just might have to pick one up.

Twice a year for me since I do on my own. That’s full tear down, clean all individual parts, flush, re-oil and re-grease. I do a light cleaning between sessions which involves just a wipe down or quick shower. I also oil throughout the season.

Tons of options out there but if you are looking for versatility in throwing, a great option would be a Dobyns Champ XP 734. I’m a Falcon guy myself and found the Amistad to be fairly versatile as well. Check out their website for many technique-specific and all-purpose options. Welcome!

I would totally be on board with this! Two weeks of quarantine with the wife and all four kids……yep….definitely need some “me” time

Not necessarily tackle but very related….picked up my first pair of Costa Blackfins.

No more fishing for me this year. Going to do rod/reel maintenance and tune-ups until Braidwood opens up March 1st. Beginning next week I’m starting a strict diet/workout plan and hope to be in top-top shape by shorts and flip/flop weather. Gave up my beer / any alcohol as well. Got some blood pressure issues to correct so I don’t end up looking up at the bass before 45. Once spring hits, I plan on having a Texas rig setup for worms/creature baits. My other setup will be for frogging. Only two rods for this bank banger!

I second the Curado suggestion. In fact, came here to post and suggest a Curado K. I’ve had three in the past and loved them.

I’ve had the dx744 and was not happy with it. I say up-gauge to a 745. Personally, anything 4 power from Dobyns are good moving bait rods. If you want solid frog/jig/Texas rigs for 1/2 oz….5 power is where you want to be. Very versatile power rod.

Check out the Falcon Cara Amistad XH. I have two ?.

Congrats! Always good when new gear arrives and sparks some chemistry. I’ve been eyeing that new Curado MGL…enjoy!

Equate power determinations to depth and amount/type of cover you are fishing around. Action will affect the ability to fling your baits and drive hooks. Ignore the power/action ratings printed on the rod as they vary from maker to maker. Pay attention to lure ratings.

Picked up a few SK Bottom Dweller spinnerbaits and some 1/2 oz SK Structure Jigs. I’m way behind on my spends this year….but I’ve got plans to make up that deficit in 2022 ?

I was throwing hollow-body frogs on a Falcon Cara Amistad last season. Solid rod with a great tip to get them out there but super solid backbone to move them out if needed. In 2022 I’ll be trying the Cara extra heavy for the same technique. Also, you might want to check out the Expert line. Both lines offer very versatile options as well as technique-specific

Enjoy it!

That’s perfect! Thanks so much! I see a trip to the hardware store in my very near future

Heads up all you Chicagoans and suburbanites……warm string of weather heading our way. Highs in the 50’s and 60’s coming in the next 10 days. Can’t beat that for mid-December in the Chicago area!!

50% off most rods over at Favorite Fishing if anyone is interested ?

I recently used the warranty process with Falcon and it was smooth as silk. Had the new Cara Deep Runner. Used it maybe twice and the blank snapped about 3-4 inches from the top. Took pictures, provided explanation, and sent proof of purchase along with the cut blank on a Friday. Got a response back that Monday. Picked an XH Amistad as a replacement, paid $20, and had the new rod in hand on Wednesday. Great team out there at Falcon!