Jeff H

I agree. Those TD-Z handles are super light with stock knobs. I put the TD-Z 100M handle (straight 90mm) on my 103P and want another for my Alphas Type F! Actually, I don't know if it will work on the Sol with the stock drag star but if it does......

Nothing wrong with the SCII blank. Put good guides on it and it's better than most people think it is. If the Premier came with Alconites and a broader selection of lengths/actions I wouldn't have to buy Avids. I like the SCII blanks. Tough, light and pretty darn sensitive for their price.

Brass> lead tungsten>brass

For a lead alternative, I can recommend Thunder Bullets brass weights. Have used them for many years and the prices are great on the solid model . The rattling model are more expensive, and kind of unique, though I don't know for certain they make any difference. If brass interests you, you might give them a look. http://www.fishingworld.com/ThunderBullets/Details.tmpl?ID=99651315791401&Cart=14065023877355178&SKU=SS

Well, given that testimonial I must say I'm humbled. Either that fish was near death (I presume not) or you are very skilled. I have nothing to add that could come near matching that and unless I move south, never will. I am impressed, really, because to me that rod (and any like it) is powerless in pursuit of bass. Yes, I prefer more power. The M/XF Avids are my finesse rods. I find them ideal for this and yet know many guys would go lighter than I do. For me, the ML/XF's are great panfish rods, where many would definitely go even lighter for those fish.

Well, I guess I don't know the exact conditions involved for him but where I'm at Senko's are usually fished around rather heavy weed cover. I have handled that 6'9" ML/XF rod more than once and d**n if I can figure something to use it for. It has no power to it at all in my opinion. He picked the best one already, the 6'8" M/XF is a MUCH better choice for 4" senko's. I have most of the Avids that are rated M/XF or ML/XF in both casting and spinning but not this one. You might have some fun with it but if there is any cover involved it will quickly prove to be the wrong choice.

The places I prefer heavier oil are the wormgear/pawl and bearings on the drive shaft. Spool and pinion bearings get light oil.

From what I understand, the addition of the TD-Z 100M spool will solve those issues with the last gen Zillion. I have the spool but have not tried it yet myself, so we'll see.

I have one that I've had for a long time. It's been a good stick, has served both my boys when they were starting out and still gets used down at the river for panfish in the fall.

I cannot give myself to just one. In this, I am a polygamist. Monogamy could never work here for me.

Well, don't forget your mosquito repellent! Our State Bird is having a banner year.

Look it up in the dictionary. Ya'll can look at it however you want, I just see it as fun, and often very effective.

I use mono and amazingly I manage to catch my share of fish with it.

You certainly can use braid. I sometimes use 10/4 Fireline when I have to fish near heavy weeds just because it cuts through the weeds like a razor.

You definitely don't want the 6'9" ML/XF. Any of the others will be just fine.

X2

How do you know this? I would expect it should but I've not seen any comments from anyone who actually has one yet.

I've done my own testing with it and I don't need it, for anything at any time!

The best is when it's LOW. The fish all pile in the holes with low water. Whats going on in Little Falls in August?

I am lucky, have not lost one yet. Did have one stolen when I was a kid. Left it leaning against the tree at the base of our dock one night, gone in the morning. Was my first baitcasting rig.

I have no idea of my first. I know I was 4 yrs old but that was 47 yrs ago. We'd catch them off the dock all the time so I do not remember my specific 1st.

I agree! Nor for spinnerbaits or most other horizontal straight retrieve presentations.

For spinning it makes no difference to me. For casting, if I'm using it for one handed casting (or pitching) I don't mind the split grip but I prefer full handle for 2 handed casting.

Papajoe, What are you seeing for surface temps?

I don't need anymore either, I can work with what I've got now. I like fixing them up but I'm not blowing money on cosmetic enhancements that offer no performance advantage. I'm only going to put one foot over the fence into the dark side, not going completely over. My favorite reel is still the HSTA for all around use.