bassfanpa

Do It molds are the easiest way to achieve what you are trying to do. At less than $40 per mold, you can't find much better for what you are looking for. If you really have a few particular heads you like, you can always attempt to fashion your own molds, but that is a different animal altogether. 1/16 to 1/2 oz tube jig molds should be available from Do It. That"s your cheapest route.

I have to jump in here. I rarely ever post about the Nock, as it is a gem. The majority of the cover planted by the PAF&BC is not necessarily in the best areas to target bass. You need to fish seasonal patterns, as well as fish the moment on any given day. The cribs are scattered in depths ranging from 6 to 34' of water. Cribs can be productive IF...they are in close proximity to natural structure and in the correct depth at which the fish are relating to during that specific time. It also helps to have bait nearby. The majority of the cribs don't fall into this criteria. With that being said, some of you have preconceived notions on the people who fish the lake regularly, and with success. Most of the "sharpies" have side imaging and the latest electronics. They are used frequently! Unbeknownest to you...you may never see these people fishing a "spot" unless you are fortunate enough to sneak up on them during a tournament. I frequently appear to be fishing something entirely different while an observer is nearby. I have fished the lake prior to side imaging and found the majority of the offshore areas I focus on by dragging. Electronics don't help me much anymore. I can line up trees and depth and be on what I want very quickly. Don't assume! Small bodies of water require deception to protect areas. If you are looking to better your excursions on the lake, fish with an open mind, take all of the conditions into your plan, and develop your strategy from there. There are fish to be caught in all depths, at most times. I would advise NOT to focus on 1 particular type of cover. The DVD does give some areas, but there is vegetation around the entire lake. That is the primary cover at any time if it is there. Deeper spots are limited to several weeks each year, at most. Water clarity and bait presence mean more that a few 2x4's. I have never caught fish in 30'. The thermocline doesn't set up that deep. Use your electronics to determine where it is. Your boat may be sitting in 30', but it is unlikely to catch 1 that deep. Use basic, fundamental patterns, and put some time in. It doesn't hurt if you are pretty good with a jig too! Good luck!

Jhoffman...nice ties. I'd recommend if you are going to use necks instead of saddle hackle to pull your feathers higher up and outside on the neck. These are softer. Also, reverse your feathers so they flare outwards, that way they move on a pause. Just a thought. Otherwise, nice job on the trailers! They'll catch em!

Craww...the stalker jigs sold by Uncle Josh were designed by Perry Haas. The Bull Shad swimbaits were designed by Mike Bucca. Both designers make great baits though.

I have several of these rods and have been using them since last fall. There is certainly a difference in both series. The tactical series has a much better reel seat, as well as very good guides. The inserts will not come out, I have tried. I believe that for the cost they are WELL worth it. They are not GLX or Kistler Heliums, but for a $150 rod, they are very good IMHO.

Excellent! Thanks.

Not sure of the exact temp, but you can use any of the methods you mentioned for powder painting. I use either a torch or heat gun, then bake in oven for 20 min

As far as I know there will not be a tournament there this year. I sure wish there was as my partner and I won last years.

I pour my own and many times I don't paint the ones I make for myself, or I use ones that don't turn out great. The fish don't care. But if you do, get some nail polish inwhatever colors you need and carry with you.

Try Barlow's, janns, Stamina, fishing skirts.com.

Other than the fact that not many reels are available in LH versions, I don't understand why more right handed people don't use a left hand reel. They are all I use. Too much time and slack available when switching hands IMO.

Try a fluid bed unless you are looking for multi colors there is no need to spray.

As a painting contractor, not bait painter, I have lots of experience with the poly. I think it is too soft to use on a bait. We don't use it on steps due to dents caused by shoes. There are some other products you may find in a paint store that may be better suited. Maybe XIM Clear 400?

I am all for the use of a net to protect the fish. Penalties should occur for laying out the fish for culling (or T.V.) purposes. But I have to say that I don't believe Iaconelli is the only one guilty of beating on the fish...

I'm on the Bill Lowen train too. The guy grew up fishing the toughest river around. (Ohio) He should do well.