Delaware Valley Tackle

x2 You took the words right out of my mouth.

A good custom builder can take into account details that a mass producer just can't. Hand size, arm length, specific use of the rod....just to name a few. Mass producers have to market to the "Average" angler. With the wide variety of components available, you can get a custom rod at a surprisingly affordable price. You can also upgrade as budget allows.

x2

I don't own any of the models mentioned, but have you considered the Pflueger President in the same price range? Smooth reeling and decent drag. I just picked one up for $55.

Congrats on a good find. I always scour the clearance bin when shopping WalMart and find many deals on plastics and cranks.

I carry a "Leatherman" type multi-tool and find myself using the various accessories more than I thought I would before receiving as a gift. Handy gadget.

I like the Palomar knot in general for terinal tackle. Be careful passing the trebels through the loop though. There are several good knot articles and diagrams on the site.

I'm right on the PA/NJ/NY border so I might check out the Suffern show.

This presentation is really popular with steelhead fishermen. If you plan to do a lot of this style fishing, check out some of the steelhead sites.

Thanks J that was my point. I should have been more clear. It doesn't? :-? Ehhh....some do a better job than others. Shimano schematics are pretty well detailed, and so are Daiwa. But what they don't show is order of assembly. For instance, in many Daiwa reels, its not clear that the drive shaft assembly, up to the AR ratchet must be reassembled before the levelwind can go on. Of course, this where breaking the reel down into sub assemblies, or modules as David refers to them. Not all reels will follow the same order, either.

I have to agree with Flechero, there's no reason a shakey head finesse setup couldn't catch walleye etc. I also think Road Warrior is right on with the three basic setups he suggests. With that said, some of us like tackle as much as we like fishing.

I haven't seen him on for a while, but say it.....Jitterbug! Much as I hate to admit it, I have to agree with Kelley. ;D Before first light and after last light. Where is Muddy and his Jitterbug? If you are fishing where you might get hung up or snagged every other cast, try a Rage Shad.

Welcome Nitro! I'm from the Mohawk Valley originally, now in PA.

I use a 6' Medium/Heavy Fast action that I built. I like the shorter rod for accuracy and low, under hand casts for a quiet entry.

I'd recommend letting a pro do anything beyond oiling reel spool bearings. But if you decide to tear into one keep in mind that the schematic is really a parts list and doesn't necessarily show how the reel is assembled.

Besides matching line and lure ratings "Balance" is more a matter of comfort and suitability than having a setup with a fulcrum point at a specific point on a rod.

x2 Having worked for an oil company, too much can be as bad as too little.

I have the best luck using a floating lizard on a California rig. T-rig with a pegged weight for bed fishing.

In his video Glenn says "Any color is fine as long as it's white.." I would have to agree for daytime fishing. Use dark blue or black for night fishing.

This might work. I've used a small surface plug as a float with a leader from the rear split ring to a fly or small jig. This rig catches pan-fish and the occasional dink.

The short answer is yes. It really depends on the value of the rod and what you want to accomplish. How long is the handle now and what type of rod?

Cork over all is my favorite. But I also like foam on cranking and trolling rods.

Welcome Joe! Great site, you'll like it. Mike

Mudhole tackle supply has some good tutorials on their site to get you started. Also check out the Rod Builders forum especially the 27x guide placement system. Good luck!

I haven't used that specific kit but have ordered form Mudhole with great results. There is a tech dept. email on their site that I have used. They'll get back to you quickly with detailed answers to your questions. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed. Good luck.