Jeff H

Oh geez....I agree, only have 2 left. One of my favorite small cranks (#5's) of all time. I also miss Luck E Strike Guido G4 tubes.

It got torn apart, cleaned and lubed right away. Also added Carbontex drag kit. For now, that's all it needed. Right after I bought that, I stumbled on a couple TD-Z's for really cheap that needed a few parts, that i happened to have on hand, so I bought those too. One of which is the 103P and destined to become my finesse cranker now. I want a larger capacity spool for it (it has the low capacity 105H spool in it now) and was recommended the RCS 1016. So, that's going to happen in the next few weeks. It got the 100M 90mm handle already and the requiste Carbontex drag kit was already in it! So, I'm about done with this whole finesse caster thing already. Just need a couple rods now.

I agree with RW. I don't think one is better than the other for me, they both have their place.

I'm seriously considering a couple models for my new found pursuit of finesse baitcasters. I have looked at them before, definite bargain at $69!

Well, I finally got stupid and stepped over to the dark side. Bought a near mint Alphas Type F. Nothing to get excited about, just the JDM version of the Sol and was bought for well under $200. Figured I'd give finesse casting a chance and have to say I'm blown away at the distance I get from this thing with light lures. My finesse fishing has definitely taken on a new adventure.now. This is going to give "fun fishing" another level of fun. Somebody stop me! I used to rail against this very thing, I still think it's dumb but heck....it's really kind of fun!

I've been able to put respectable catches in the boat but have had to work too hard to do it. Harsh winter, late spring, late weedgrowth and completely unstable weather has not made for an easy season. I have not been out for 2 weeks and wasn't seeing much grouping yet, but I suspect that is changing by now. It can only get better from here on. I'm going up north for 9 days starting this weekend, weather is supposed to be stable most of next week. Expecting a good bite.

tcbass, Big Marine used to be good years ago. It can still be fun, but get out there early because the pleasure boaters pile in now since they put in the county park. The water is pretty clear and there is a lot of shallow cover but I seem to do best overall fishing deep out there this time of year. The public access on the north end (deeper) is better than the County park ($5 fee) on the south end (shallower, better parking) but you gotta get there early to get a spot. Expect to catch a bunch of pesky hammers (lil' gators) too.

That may very well be but I ain't blowing $23 on a popper. How many more have you bought?

We? Who is we? You and who else?

My youngest son (12 yrs old) still uses a spinning rig for his frogs. Pflueger Trion 35 reel on a 6' MH Lightning Rod w/30 lb Fireline. More often than not he whups me and does a darn fine job working that frog....better than me.

2nd day post severe cold front. light winds from north, bluebird sky on a ultra clear water lake. I like having to break out the finesse gear and the challenge of mega tough conditions (tiny strike windows)

I've got a drop of Rem oil on mine. Just not comfortable running ANY bearing without lube.

Usually right around 8 hrs for me. I'll go longer if I'm on new water or the fish are really hitting. When it's ugly hot/humid (i HATE the humidity) I'm often done after 6 hrs.

No cheapies for me. Quit wearing the cheapies 20 yrs ago. I have Costa, Smith, and Hobie. The clarity of high quality shades is truly amazing.

I just knew when I read the title that at least one response would go there.

I suspect that this is where you, myself and some others may have missed the boat. I get the idea it's not about being a minimalist here, rather quite the opposite. LOTS of reels can handle the requirements stated, but they don't carry the image required to match the intemperance or debauchery of the elite tackle enthusiast. Not that there is anything wrong with that. I myself covet the Alphas 103 R and some others, but reality often gets the better of me for now. I'm feeling my ability to resist weaken by the day. While it will carry that cool factor I rue the very day I'll spend more than $200 on a reel....again.

Welcome to Bass Resource Bryan! Where in MN are you at?

The Prodigy was just on sale for $69.00 not long ago. That's a bargain for sure! It will go on sale again, keep your eye on it.

I agree. You can do a lot with that one.

I use Black/green flake most of the time.

If that salesman couldn't identify the new ZX and Prodigy baitcasters as Daiwa products he might need his glasses cleaned.

Were you looking at the casting reels or spinning reels?

It feels like one too.

I think their new Verano baitcaster is an Okuma. Strong resemblance to the Helios from what I could see.

1/4 or 3/8 oz jig w/trailer is easily handled by a Zillion. I have been using my 50th to throw my Pop-R's and it casts those very well. I'm using my Fuego to throw T-rig worms, usually 3/16 - 1/4 oz bullet 3/0 hook and 7" Berkley Power worm. No problems with that package, can really huck it out there if I want to. But honestly my HSTA's will do nearly as well. I have yet to try my 100M spool in either one, but the way they are working I don't feel the need. I have 2 Fuego I just bought this spring, bone stock and the drags are terrible on both. They are going to get some work this winter! They are the worst drags I've had on any reel.