Darren.

Welcome aboard, Barney!

I can tell you they weren't in any mood to bite this afternoon. But I concur with your diagnosis/analysis, Catt!

That should work great for a unit like the Garmin. I must've missed this during the ICAST coverage. Looks like an excellent battery pack.

Welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard!

A great start to the fishing year!

I like it! Looks fantastic!

First, welcome aboard! On my two Quantum reels with flipping switches, when you flip the with, it allows you to engage the reel when you press the thumb bar, then when you release the thumb bar, it automatically goes back to a non-casting position. So it is used when flipping and pitching. Not sure that helps

I've played with quite a few bait casting reels in-store, funny thing is (esp for me) is that I bought my Daiwa Lexa 100 sight unseen, and my two Shimano Chronarch 50e reels the same way. Though I did handle the 200 size Chronarchs. Both are very good reels, but in terms of quality and smoothness, the Chronarch 50e's are the best reels I own. They can be found online for near the higher end of your range. I know the Tatulas are getting a strong following, and Lew's has one, too. So "best reel" is clearly subjective.

I use 10lb PowerPro on all my Spinning reels, exception being one of my larger reels normally reserved for saltwater... That "larger" reel is a Shimano Spirex 2500, LOL. My bass reels are 1000 size Stradics and one 2000 size Lexa. On that 2500 Spirex I believe I have 30# PowerPro which is no problem.

I'd consider myself a finesse angler.

I've got these at BPS on sale for $20 a few years back. They're excellent, still quite operable, exception being the cutters broke. I need to get replacement blades for them. http://www.basspro.com/Offshore-Angler-Aluminum-Pliers-with-Nylon-Sheath/product/10209891/

I haven't done much in the last few weeks. And before that, only some bank fishing with a bud. All the ice is gone off our reservoirs, some nicer, warmer weather down here, but I've not hit out in the kayak. Plan too soon, tho. Been biting at the bit to get out!!

very cool

Wow! That's a hawg!

I may be in the minority but I spool my Chronarch 50e reels with 20# PowerPro and add a leader. I find braid so much easier to deal with than nylons. Including picking out professional overruns!

Kevin you can also look at the new white Carbonlite rods at BPS. They are really nice and super light...

Welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard, Greg, and thanks for your service to our country!

In addition to those, I also recommend looking at some Daiwa models like the Lexa. Solid reel for the money. Started out over $100 but it's under that at many shops now.

LOL, congrats to the fisherwoman!!

As a "not an Eagles fan", I've respected Kelly for a while now. He's a thinker and a difference maker. This is a class act by him.

Joe, I've done the vertical storage thing on my kayak, but I have since resorted to laying down my rods in front of me. Keeps them out of the way for bait casting (and spinning) which can be nightmarish if you have a lapse in memory casting forgetting they're behind (or wherever) you. But to each his/her own. I know rod holders are a popular thing, but I am simply not into them anymore. But I'm also always on the lookout for a better setup!

Welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard!