steve328

I've used Powerpro, Suffix and the Fireline and my new favorite is Fireline Tracer Braid. Casts smoother, less wind knots and great visibility. My next line purchase will be Tracer braid and I'll be glad when I evenually switch all my reels over to it.

I've got a two year old Clunn reel that has been used a lot and is still very smooth. My son uses it now. I went to BPS today looking for something in the $120 or less range. I finally decided on another Clunn reel and think I'm going to be happy with my purchase. If you're happy with the reels, then use them. The only person you have to please is yourself. The rest of us don't count.

Don't overlook the oldies. I don't fish spinnerbaits much but my teenage son wears me out occasionally with the Mann's Classic ( Hank Parker model ). He uses the double gold Indiana blades and chartreuse and white skirt. Hank Parker made a career off that bait. My local Wal-Mart has them on clearence right now for $2 each. The supply at zip 37854 has been seriously dented though.

I bought a pair of the 6 1/2 inch Rapala pliers last year - great pliers until the plastic spring in the middle broke. I emailed Rapala but no response so far. Now in the market for a new pair. Carefully reviewing this thead.

Ive got both the Symetre 2500 and the Daiwa Regal Xi 2500. I like the Daiwa better but you probably won't go wrong with either. The Symetre is probably a little smoother but I've had a lot less casting problems ( birds nests ) with the Daiwa. My next reel will probably be an Exceler. My Daiwa is also on a 6'3" Compre Medium. Good choice in the rod.

If you have a Gander Mountain nearby, check out the Rapala rods. Very inexpensive and they are good rods. I have a Loomis, St. Croix and others but when I go light I pick up the Rapala.

I've got the microfuse spooled on a spinning outfit. I really like it, like you said it softens up after a few casts. I've been using it for several months and haven't had any problems. I do use a leader as it really stands out in the water but that shouldn't be a factor at night. I haven't broken it off yet. I use the 10 lb. test.

A little dab of super glue on the knot makes a lot of difference. I use 10 Fireline with a 10lb BPS XPS leader. Last time I went fishing I broke off probably 4 or 5 hooks ( submerged timber ) and never did break the leader knot. I use the slim beauty knot.

I've got a BPS Extreme spinning and a St Croix Premier spinning. Both are 6 foot medium and both are very comparable. I personally feel the Extreme is more comfortable to fish ( cork grips ) and just as sensitive. Great deal if you can catch them on sale.

I fully agree with Hawgchaser on the Lightening Rods and the BPS Extreme. For the money, they are hard to beat. Shimano Clarus is also a very good rod.

I have an Extreme reel in the smaller size. Second year with it. Good reel and very smooth. I just recently purchased my son a Citica and he says he likes my Extreme just as much as the Citica. I haven't used the Citica much so I can't really compare them.

I have a 6'3" Compre spinning rod ( Medium power/ XF ) that I used all last year and it is a very good rod. I believe if you like the Clarus, you'll love the Compre.

I have the BPS Pro Qualifer spinning reel ( wide spool ) and I'm very happy with it. It is my favorite reel. Very little coiling in the line and casts very well. Would recommend.

I've used it quite a bit on spinning outfits. I like the line but it looks white in the water - not so much so in the 10 lb size. It casts well and is strong but I've started using a leader with it.

I'm liking the Stren Microfuse 10lb on spinning tackle with a 12 lb BPS Flourocarbon leader. Microfuse seems to be stronger than 10 lb. I like a high visibility braid. Power Pro is also very good braid.