Leaderboard

Well known big bass hunter Mike Long took the time to take some underwater photos of huge bass throughout the year. The results are some pretty awesome pictures of some very large bass, just doing what they do. http://www.mikelongoutdoors.com/underwater-bass-pictures/

I am going to have to politely disagree with you. 50# of force can bend a spool shaft, so putting all that force on it trying to break off can really damage your spool. I recommend wrapping the line around something you have with you, like scissors or a hook sharpener, etc and pulling. I once bent a spool shaft trying to break off 40# braid a few years back and I will never make that mistake again.

I was on a charter trip with a couple of fellas from West Virginia today. It was not the best bite, only getting a fish here and a fish there all day. I turned into a hay field south of Kramer Island and hasd the guys working the heaviest grass on the lake. They needed a brake and started eating a sandwich. hey was my opportunity to get a line wet and hopefully stretch a line. I tossed out a Gambler Lures "Burner" worm (a big cut tail worm similiar to the smaller Zoom). This big girl hit it with knock out power. I set up good and she flew up and flared her gills, then she dove to the bottom of the hay field. She wrapped me up tight and I just maintained pressure till I could get the boat on top of her. Once on top of her I just hoisted her with everything I had and she came up along with 20 pounds of hay. High fives all around, a couple of snapshots and a good release.

I prefer the type of fishing where I'm taking lots of pictures and videos as well as wearing out the battery on my digital scale . . . . A-Jay

Fun FACTS: 1. Bass sometimes have a strong preference for bottom contact baits rather than moving baits and vice-versa! 2. Every color will work some times, but certain colors seem to work better. Your "best" color is probably the one you fish most often! 3. Fishing stucture and/or cover improves your odds. 4. Current or water flow can be the deciding factor on rivers. 5. Generally, line choices mean more to fishermen than fish.

dude, its an inch of snow. Up here when that happens we go from 80mph on the highway to 78 mph.

1/2oz RES in Orange Belly Craw works fairly well..............although, I bet you could get an even bigger bass with the above mentioned 3/4oz RES in Sexy Shad...

During the spawn is a good time for creature baits it really fires up the big girls, but also the heat of the summer when the fish have a very fast metabolism and a nice big meal that moves slow is just what the doctor ordered. also darker water the bigger profile and appendages can help the fish locate the bait. Mitch

All I want to know is.... Does your wife have a sister? I would like to be his brother in law too.

I think to much. I was thinking about the newbies who come on this site looking for ANSWERS. Not likely to get one. This site and others like it usually only provides "OPINIONS", not answers. Doesn't matter if you're on a fishing site, or a site for bowling seeking answers about bowling balls. All there is, are opinions. Just posted recently a topic concerning hook removal, "remove or leave it in". Got nothing but varied opinions. Nothing wrong with that. That's all there is. For there to be an answer, there has to be proof, and then no matter who answers, the answer will always be the same. If I ask, "what is 2+2, the answer will "ALWAYS" be 4, {hopefully}. No matter how many replies, they will always be the same, 4, 4, 4, 4, etc., etc. So, "NEWBIES", when you ask on here, or any site, realize, what you are getting is only "ADVICE". Simply because that is all there is. Just go with popular opinion. If 20 guys say Lews is a great reel. and 5 hate the reel, probably a safe bet that it is a good reel...... I need a nap. Hootie

$500 reel (Zillion) - no way. I appreciate the reply - but I'm no tourney guy and "I" have to pay this bill. I can't see any leisure bass fisherman shelling out $500 for a reel.

Ironic because you start a lot of them...

I know...chilling moment for sure

My absolute favorite type of fishing is top water for smallmouth. There is truly nothing better than fishing in a crystal clear northern lake on a morning when the lake is smooth as glass and seeing a bronze back come up to clobber the popper. It's addicting.

http://www.bassmaster.com/slideshow/best-winning-photos-catch-week Mainbass1984, congrads on the 11th best bass of the year according to bassmaster.com

My opinion is that you're up too late. If you wish to go the scientific route to find "answers" - good luck. Scientists are always challenging the facts. Constantly debating the methodologies, depth of research, and statistical relevance of the "answers", despite mounds of data that all say the same thing. They're never satisfied with the "answers". Instead, they're content with finding what they perceive are "flaws" in the "answers". Have fun with that.

Don't worry raider. I found you a plow. http:// I don't what would be better. Watching him trying to drive this, or watching him trying to get in it.

Man, I grew up in snowstorms in Tennessee that was worse than this, and got used to controlling my car. Not one time did I spun out, slid, etc., on the way home. It took me 1.5 hours to go 20 miles from downtown Tuscaloosa to my home. I was sitting in red light near a hill and I had been in low gear the entire time keeping my distance, not pressing gas too hard, not braking hard, and my car was spinning slowly anyway due to low gear. I was well within controlling my car with multiple slick spots all over the road, and had solid nerves up to this point. As I sat there chewing gum, trying not to pee myself (shouldn't had that 3rd cup of coffee.), listening to some My Morning Jacket, and then I saw in review mirror a SEMI-TRUCK was sliding!!!! And another car was a foot from hitting side of my car!! My heart was freaking racing, and I was thinking of all the craps I should have done with my life. On the plus side I didn't have to pee anymore, so there the silver lining. I WAS HAPPY to have finally reached the dreaded hilly backroad because I was hoping for no traffic. As I first pulled into the backroad, I see a white covered road with no tread marks. Kind of relieved to think there be no more amateur drivers or egoistical redneck thinking he can get across icy road in truck that has more money put into it than his mobile home only to watch them fish tail up a couple hills....No more than 5 minutes later a school bus comes barreling down the other lane slamming her brakes... I said a few words that get bleeped on here, but good grief my mind thought she would slide into me head on. Anyway, I reached the top of first hill, I switched my ol' reliable vehicle into 4x4 low and proceed roller coaster my way home on the hillside. I got home and I crap you not, I nearly fell asleep from that adrenaline rush. People in 'Bama go crazy, y'all.. CRAZY!! People be the death of me.. If you wanna know what happen if everyone on the road would drive if they were drunk, come watch these Alabama folks drive in this kind of weather.

you know guys i have fished my whole life i was 7 i caught a 17lb black carp,by myself...stomach was sore for a week from the rod butt digging in.Had my pic on the tackle shop wall until i was 12...I say all this because fishing is a part of my earliest memorys.Its a part of my life not just a hobby. I started this thread because i had NO CLUE that a 600.00 dollar reel was even made..I only knew after i spent a moment on the internet..I was floored...I asked the question because i wanted to know how a perfectly good reel could be had for a hundred dollars yet a reel was out there that cost 6x more.I was hoping to clearly see what that difference was,not get everybody ticking on each others leg.i didnt right ticking i guess its some sort of censor software...but you know what i meant. So be mellow..fishing is far to much fun for all these hostil vibes,man.Yes im a cheech and chong fan...lmao..

Japan tackle, tackletour will give you lots of option s. After you get a grasp for what you want with costs get in touch with Robert or Mike at Hawgtech for better pricing and a direct connection for help and customer satisfaction. They are the reel deal and they both are good sticks that love bass fishing like you & me.

Red eye shad in sexy shad or sexy chartreuse shad.

When ever the water is wet!

This issue is the same as many others in life. People feel the need to put other people down because it makes them feel better about themselves. This especially holds true in matters concerning money. That's the where the term "hater" comes from.

I plan on using the smoker in full force with at minimum 2 racks of ribs, a small pork shoulder, sausage and maybe a brisket point and some jalapeño poppers...after that it doesn't even matter . I like meat with a side of meat for these types of occasions

Red Earth you have often argued that your Ugly Stiks are as good as you or anyone else needs to be a good bass fisherman. You have said that it is stupid to spend more on gear than you do, since you catch as many fish as most anyone else and have a good time doing it. You tell us that it is because we are willing to pay more than you for over-priced and unnecessary gear that it makes fishing more expensive for everyone. The overwhelming majority of fishermen on this site would disagree with you. Many of us have tried repeatedly to explain that there are some issues here that you are unwilling or unable to understand. You have made your point. I hope I've made mine...

He's ready for it!

Plain and simple enjoy the reel. I've spent boatloads of cash upgrading and customizing reels to my preference. It's no different than people who tinker and play with their cars, motorcycles, guns etc. I get outfished all the time by guys with lesser equipment. Doesn't change the fact that I love having higher end, customized and custom painted stuff. It just makes the experience more enjoyable for me and in the end isn't that what fishing is all about?

ok guys this was meant to be a pleasant exchange of ideas..this is not a Chevy vs Ford.I worked in the automotive industry for almost 30 years until i got hurt badly.( i have the Brooklyn bridge in my neck).. I have yet to put line on it..i am going to ask about that here real soon..as someone said for 'ME' i could never justify a 600.00 dollar reel,BUT fate and love has put one in my hand and im going to fish with it and think of him every time im out with it.

What do you think? An Owner Deep Throat hook on a shaky head!

all I can picture is abandoned cars like the pictures of the blizzard of '78, minus the snow.

This would be my #1 as well! 1/2oz or 3/4 oz red eye shad in sexy shad. Jeff

Don't know if I blame her. Stock with 554hp and a 1/4 mile time of 12.0 seconds. It is down right quick right out of the box. And ALL of the creature comforts you could imagine! Jeff

You want a crazy factory ride with tons of HP and street legal you need a Cadiallac CTS-V tuned up. My buddy has one with pushing 1000hp. 4 door, all leather, power everything, BAD ASS! Check out this http://dynospeedracing.com/wordpress/specialties/cts-v/ My buddy's is stage 4 - car plus about $25k. Runs low 10's at the track. This is the video on the dyno before they redid the heads, allowing 16lbs of boost: 685rwhp/635 trq translates into 830HP at that point. Here is a youtube clip of another built by same shop here in memphis

Plat.co.jp Japantackle.com Rakuten Hedgehog studios Hawgtech

^^^^ This in 3/4 ounce. Best Six Dollar bait you can buy. A-Jay

Admittedly I've never used a Duckett Ghost but I personally have a Carbonlite. The Carbonlite is one of the lightest and most responsive rods I've ever had. I have the Microguide version. I have a buddy who's got several St. Croix and a couple G. Loomis rods.....he's impressed with the Carbonlite. So there ya go. HA! Take my word for it if you'd like. Since Duckett is a superb quality rod, and I have personally experienced the qualities of the Carbonlite......it seems you couldn't go wrong really with either one. This might be a way to justify buying both rods? Haha

*crickets*

Word it however you wish. He will have a brace from hip to toe. He will be able to put a little weight on that while in the brace but that knee bending after being locked up is gonna not be fun. It took six months just to make my knee bend one direction then another. Realistically, ill be surprised if he makes the 2015 classic as well. Im gonna go ahead and say he will not fish a single event in the regular season this year either.

3" In all seriousness, they look like a nice rod. Get the 7'3" and let us know what you think.

you have to be careful..acquiring tackle can be habit forming.when you find yourself having to get another tackle box because the get deal you just got on Ebay,CL,etc just wont fit in one box anymore..lol...

Looks like my boxes, more stuff than I could ever use Replace all that lead with tungsten and your in business.

I fish some of the relatively expensive baits ( I do have my limit on what I 'm willing to spend ) and I also fish conventional tackle and I have had success with both approaches. I will be the first to tell you that you don't need expensive baits to have fun bass fishing and for most this is going to be the way to go to either fit their budget, they have other things they prioritize or it could be " I would never spend that kind of money on tackle " mantra . If you fall in that category that's cool but I find there is resentment by a few sometimes directed at those who buy this kind of tackle which I've never understood. If you don't like it don't buy it, who cares what the other guy fishes. I don't fish live bait but I have no problem with anyone who does. That is my rant part of this post. The appeal of big custom baits to me is their trophy potential and the fact that when I throw a Matt's hard gill for example I am probably the only one in our county and one of only a few in my state that evens owns this bait so it's fun to show the fish something different. I also attempt to be a student of the sport( though there are outings where I fish like a flunkie ) so it's fun to me to experiment with different not commonly used approaches and big bait fishing certainly works for me from that perspective. That said I also enjoy fishing jigs, traps & jerkbaits in the spring etc and my evolution as an angler is trying to sort out the best times for big bait fishing verses the times when another approach is better. My advice is get the tackle that works for you and your budget and go have fun whether it's a 5$ spinnerbait or a 100 $ swimbait or try both and when you can take a kid or a newbie fishing.

well....all's well that ends well... met with and joined, a different club sunday. 23 total members. 10 non-boaters...and after talking to a few of them, they get treated well by the boaters. as an added bonus, they fish 4 different places that I have never fished..... the biggest bonus... the last tourney... a 2 day event is on KENTUCKY LAKE!! thanks to all who gave their input....it is appreciated...

I suspect it's an illegal substance.

For you young men and women, don't get overweight and out of shape in the first place. As a young man I liked fashionable clothing and wimmmen, great motivation to be in shape. Once I got married at 46 I didn't work out too much anymore, but I remained active, wife made sure I ate right. Eating right wasn't enough for me not to get diabetes 4 years ago, history in my family. I'm 68 and have been retired from day to day business activity for 10 years, I have fished almost every day for those last 10 years. My diet, non sedentary lifestyle is keeping me in reasonably fit condition, at least from a fishing standpoint. Don't often get tired or sore but I don't push myself, age does have it's limitations. For the people losing weight, keep up the good work.

Here are some more photos and info on the reel. http://www.*.com/Shimano-Curado-I-Reels-p/shimano-cui.htm&Click=7721

I am a skitter pop fan as well and they do make a larger version......Honestly though most times if i am throwing a popper it is on the fly rod

I don't always dropshot, but when I do, I dropshot with a flouro leader. Stay manageable my friends.

Here in St.Louis CL is huge and to be honest this was the exception not the norm..i am on CL everyday and in fact the truck i drive,and more things than i can can count are from CL.. PayPal well Paypal is VERY anti-gun and i will not support them.In fact i have walked away from more than a few deals because the person insisted on using PayPal..I would loose a deal than compromise what i consider one of the most important issues facing law abiding gun owners today,and that is compromising our right to keep and bear arms.Anything that is against firearms is against me.

$250 would get you a Fenwick Elite tech rod, and Stradic 1000/2500 FJ. Would be a solid dropshot/shakeyhead setup for that money....