JackstrawIII

Hey all, I have been using the 7’1 Tatula HF jig rod for frogs and toads, which I throw often. I really like it, except that I wish the handle was longer. I like the mix of power and casting distance I get with this rod, but I’m really tall and have long arms and I find that my wrist gets sore fighting fish on this rod after a good days fishing, because I can’t anchor the rod against my side or under the crook of my elbow. Couple questions: 1. Is there a simple way to make the handle several inches longer? 2. If not, is there a rod that is similar to this but with a longer handle? I’m not really interested in super long rods at this point, but would love to know what’s out there. Thanks!

The fishing up here is incredible. There is no shortage of good fisheries... some well known, and some not. If you decide to move up here, let me know and we can fish together sometime.

Hard to bring less than 5 when I go out because I hate retying all the time. But, if retying doesn't bother you, I honestly think you could manage with... 1. 6'10 - 7'3 MHF with 12-15lb hybrid/fluoro 2. 7'1 - 7'3 HF with 50lb braid If I could have a third... 3. 7'-7'3 MHM (moderate action) with 12lb fluoro 1. Gives you all your open water moving baits and some lighter t-rigs and such. This can also throw most crankbaits, depending on the specific rod in this range. 2. Gives you your topwater and heavier cover moving baits and t-rigs 3. Gives you something a bit more ideal for crankbaits, chatterbaits, and smaller spinnerbaits.

You'll have more problems with stainless guides when using very light braid (like less than 15 pound). With heavier braid, it shouldn't be a problem. But yes, ceramic or AO inserts are always a good idea.

I like the Tatula SV TW most out of the Daiwa reels I've tried (many). This might be an unpopular opinion, but they're just as user friendly as the Steez and Zillions. You should be able to find a used Tatula SV in that price range.

I use a 7'1. I prioritize casting accuracy over distance. I also find slightly shorter rods easier to "walk" when needed. With that said, a longer rod would help move the fish faster after a bite.

I have owned both. I kept the St. Croix. The Tatula blank is great. I personally use a lot of Tatula casting rods, but I got rid of all my Tatula spinning rods because of the grip and handle length. To me, they just didn't balance well at all. Almost all of my spinning rods are St. Croix Premier. The balance is incredible and their power makes them very versatile.

Topwater toad... which is basically a finesse buzzbait. Second would be any sort of swimming bait like a spinnerbait or paddletail. I just love the pronounced THUMP when they're hit. Least favorite (though I catch most of my fish this way) are the non-moving baits like t-rigs and neko rigs. They work, but they're nowhere near as fun.

I had the same problem with O-rings. I no longer use them. I switched to the Geecrack Neko Hack. They're AWESOME. The other day I caught like 8 fish (two of which were over 4 lbs) without losing my bait. That's the best tip I can give you. You're welcome.

In general I also try to avoid wind. If it's blowing hard that day, I'll find the most protected space I can find. Not only do I enjoy it more, but I tend to get bit better. With that said, by far the biggest factors I consider when approaching a new or unknown body of water (where I don't know the "good spots) are: depth, shade, and structure/cover. In general, I dislike fishing deep water (over 10' or so), so I'm looking for shallow structure (like points and flats) that also have cover items I enjoy fishing (pads, docks, etc). In spring here in NY, shade isn't AS big of a factor... but as the summer comes, it becomes almost the #1 factor. To me, at least. So, that means east side of the lake in the morning and west side in the evening. I'm not saying that I think the fish go to different sides of the lake at different times of day, but their behavior changes and they get more aggressive when their area is shaded. My $.02. Worth probably about that much...

703 at least. I've been using a 703 for the last couple years for those same baits using 12 pound hybrid line. I'm actually just now trying out braid/leader to see if I can increase hook-setting power on long casts. I often make long casts along structure and get bit really far from the boat, which can make it tricky to get a solid hook set. All that to say, I certainly wouldn't go lighter than the 703.

Dobyns Sierra "fast" rods tend to be a bit slower than true "fast". Something like the 733 or 703 would suit you well depending on what length you like. Could also step up to the 704 if you will be doing t-rigging than chatterbaits.

Suffix 832 in 10lb and 15lb are my go-to on spinning setups.

I use Suffix 832. 40 pound is the lightest that I've successfully used without getting it to dig in on itself. 50 pound is my usual.

The only thing I don't like is wind. Fighting wind ruins everything.

Thin bass fillets are very good friend in panko and almond flour. They do not have abundant bones and are very easy to prepare. also, you should keep and eat any catfish you catch. They get very hook shy after being caught even once.

Can you fish a topwater frog with the same rod as a drop shot? Maybe you could... but why would you?

I've been very happy with the Ark Tharpe 6'10 ML. Great rod and can be had for under $100.

I fish a 1/0 for 2.8-3.3" swimbaits and a 3/0 for 3.8-4.3". I don't fish bigger than that enough to have a knowledgeable opinion about it.

When the smartest guy around (Elon) thinks you're making a mistake... you should listen.

That’s great! Congrats. My wife and I have been scouring our area for a place just like this. I’m glad you found one! Enjoy.

Sure it can, if you give it the proper parameters to work with. AI is far far smarter and far far more dangerous than we realize. About 90% of our lives is run by computer algorithms already, and this technology is still in its infancy stage. In the past, humans did the work and used computers as necessary. We’re seeing that change. Now the computers do the work and use humans as necessary. Sobering, when you recognize that we rely on computers for our food, electricity, propane, healthcare, gasoline, etc….

I have a 17' boat with a folding tongue and it's still over 20' with the motor trimmed down. Just so you're aware. You'll probably need to go 14-16'.

St Croix Triumph or Premier (on sale)

He has the most interesting guests on his show. All over the map. I also really like Ron Spomer Outdoors and Backcountry Hunting. Both are hunting and fun focused, but great.