Darren.

Time for a bionic arm, shoulder! Good luck and speedy recovery!!

I like the Keen H2, but after several years, the bottoms got ... for lack of a better word, "slippery", and they became...also for lack of better word...... dangerous to wear (due to slipperiness). I tend to use flipflops -- my fav are Crocs Santa Cruz with leather uppers. My other "faves" were Adidas toe shoes, but alas, they've gone to their grave. I should add that Keen Waimea were awesome, as well:

I bet it felt great to have that tug at the end of your line, eh! Congrats and welcome back to the sport!

Fantastic catch! Congrats to him!

I go to one local shop for live bait, the other local shop for rod tip fixes mostly. Both places have good folks and good support. BPS, DSG, and TW, etc., have more variety on the tackle front, so I go there for other necessities.

Welcome aboard, Robert!

Welcome aboard, Vinson!

Welcome aboard, RJ!

I'm not saying it is, but my first thought was the snout is boar-like, but it's too tough to really tell.

From what I have read and heard, it is more sensitive than previous models like the Ugly Stik Lite series, of which I had 2, now just 1. Don't use them much now, but the boys will for saltwater. If it is within your budget and you want that toughness, get it. Are there better, more sensitive rods? Of course, but that doesn't matter if you can't afford them.

I learned after those things I thought, or was told, or saw on TV would work, but didn't. So like @gulfcaptain, experience, age, history, as well as maturity, finding what works for me and not that other guy over there have chipped in to keeping me from being *that guy*. I don't need as many rods as the other guy, nor do I have to use specific equipment because it's a better tool in the toolbox. I use what works for me. I've had to cut down on complexity as well because it can be expensive. I just can't afford it now.

Sweet catch, Paul!

Fantastic! Two PBs to start the year. Can't complain about that!!

The FX series is flat out awesome in hull design. I have the previous Ultimate 12 and it is extremely stable. The Ultimates are super customizable, as well. If money were no object, I'd probably get a Hobie, but since that's nowhere in my future, I would jump at the opportunity to buy an FX12. Secondary stability is fantastic, as well, given the pontoon design. I have no problems standing at all. Additionally, no, I don't have a rudder, but I did rig mine with a MinnKota C2 30 that I steer with the foot pedals, and I rigged a control box on my left hand side. Works awesome.

I've not used CX or CXX but I have used/use Floroclear and do like it a lot. However, since my stash of Yo-zuri hybrid is far more extensive, I use that most of the time, and all of it is as leader only. I use braided mainline. 10# and 15# spinning, and 20# casting. Braid of choice is Power Pro SuperSlick 8 (15#), the others are regular Power Pro. All in Yellow coloration. Just my personal preference.....

Worth a fish. Small side has some beasties, but can be overrun by weeds. Big side also has beasties, walleye, and more!

Indeed. A great lake! Have you fished Harwood's Mill?

Welcome aboard, Billy!

Good tip, Glenn. I've used the smaller EWG (1-1/0) and have had no problem setting the hook. Of course it's a light wire hook...but still an EWG that needs to be set.

Welcome aboard, Rich! I'll not add too much other than I agree with most everything said so far in terms of tutelage. I practiced a ton before hitting the water. Important body part here: THUMB!! I will also say that Fishin' Fool is spot on. I bought an inexpensive baitcast combo at Bass Pro when starting out. Awful experience. Just awful. Even so, remember to thumb the reel gently enough to let it spool, but be quick to stop it when the lure lands.

Bring it! Ready for spring climates! Not the pollen though. Somebody tell mother nature to tone it down this year, eh? I like my white truck to stay white, not yellow

Welcome aboard, Frank!

Nice catch, Payton!

Hi, David! Welcome aboard!

Impressive!