Darren.

#1 = Wacky #2 = Wacky #3 = Texas #4 = Split shot

Wow. Yeah, that's a hairy exit up there. Though I normally hit the Hampton BPS, I've had to run up to Richmond several times for products I just couldn't wait to get delivered down to Hampton. While I'd like to say I can't imagine VDOT NOT improving the exit, I know VDOT all too well. Why ruin a perfectly hazardous exit...I mean, c'mon.</sarcasm> Like I-95 needs any more construction on or near it...anywhere. Ever again. But thanks for the head's up.

I wouldn't consider the Ultimate 12 for two... I have taken my youngest son with me before, it worked, but wasn't ideal, and I'm only around 5'7"... I wouldn't consider taking my wife in it. Just isn't big enough for 2 people unless you're both under 150 lbs and short. Even then it becomes a question of balance. (My opinion). However, I do recommend the U12 big-time for solo. I did get in-seat time in the Commander but preferred the hull design of the Ultimate--better for standing, etc. For ME! Others like the hull of the Commander. It is personal preference all the way. As well, I did not like the seat of the Commander. The Ultimate "First Class" seat is far more comfortable to me. The perch is nice on the commander, but I built a simple, under $10 seat riser for my U12 that is perfect and light. A breeze to paddle from elevated position, and simple to stand from. Advantage of the Commander is that it is ready for a trolling motor due to the flat back. I had to make a mount for my Native, but love how it works. I use a motor pretty much to get me places faster, and also because I suffer from fisherman's elbow (both elbows) and paddling can be painful. It is a personal preference. Wilderness Systems is a big dog in the industry, Native Watercraft is a small dog... not that it matters, but each has excellent hybrid systems and after-purchase support. Both have great communities where you can get tips and such. Now if you want to go solo, and occasionally take someone, consider upping to the 14' model. Will give you a little more room for an extra body. Will add a few extra pounds, but still car-toppable.

Hi Justin! Nice to have you aboard.

Ditto to ww2farmer. I will use the Albright, the Modified Albright (aka Alberto, I believe), and lastly I will use Uni to Uni. Albright is the tiniest, next the modified. Super strong. Tied them enough I can do 'em in high winds on the water.

Hi Eric! Welcome aboard, and happy New Year!

Welcome to the site!

Senko Zoom Finesse worms Yamaminnow BPS Stik-o

Welcome! Quite the hog in your avatar :-)

Welcome Florian!

Welcome aboard, Tanner, and Merry Christmas!

Some good fishing in that area, Brian. Welcome to the site!

Everything said is legit and optional to start spooling line onto a BC. If you're spooling braided line, IMHO, put some mono backing on first. You don't *need* all that braid on there and can save yourself some money by putting maybe 80-100 or so yards of braid on. Only a couple times have I reached the knot joining braid to mono backing, and that's because I didn't have enough braid to begin with. This is what I do. If it doesn't matter to you, or you don't want to put down mono backing, then use any of the methods above, including starting with tape on the spool.

Greetings, Rick, from SE VA... Nice to have you aboard.

Hi Robert, fellow Virginian! Welcome to the forum. You'll learn a LOT here!

I would agree braid will last for years. Currently going on 2 years on my Stradics. Although I have spare spools with different types of line, I use the braid 99% of the time. In fact, I plan on buying another couple spools of yellow PowerPro soon, for other reels in my arsenal. But fwiw, I don't fish straight braid. I always fish a leader. Typically a copoly like P-Line Floroclear or YoZuri Hybrid. This way the braid lasts even longer as I only have to cut a short amount off when I change out leaders.

Happy Christmas!

Agree with SirSnookalot that bail wire isn't an issue. I can speak for the Stradic FI, darn fine reel. FJ is a nice reel but only held them in-store. Don't like T handles, either, which is why I bought 2 1000 FI models. I believe the 2500 FJ is paddle as well. I would say if you're looking for a possible crossover between salt and fresh you might wanna look into another Daiwa or a Shimano.

Welcome aboard!

Well... You have choices. I'm a hybrid kayak owner, it's a Native Ultimate 12 (length), loaded with storage, I've even hooked up a trolling motor setup, a fish finder, as well. Now the pic below is an older one, have a new trolling motor, and I didn't have my crate on this trip... My yak can be had for in the $800 range. For me it was the best of both worlds. I started with a canoe, migrated to a kayak, missed certain parts of canoe fishing and went with the hybrid model. Stability is incredible, secondary stability is amazing. For gear storage I simply use a milk crate and cut PVC for rod holders. Customized MY way. No extra $$ spent for a fishing kayak that may or may not be laid out well. But I'm also opposite of you, You've got me by nearly a foot in height :-) So while I think you could do a 12' boat just fine, a 14 or 16 footer would likely be more comfortable. I'm sure other yakkers and canoeists will chime in with their thoughts and other brand suggestions. I don't think you can go wrong with either, both have benefits and detractions (which is one reason I chose to go hybrid).

Cranks, jerks, etc. Although, I must say, the fact that soft plastics catch fish so well for me, I have a hard time even *wanting* to take the time to learn the ins/outs of those lures. Definitely need to learn to read my fish/depth finder better. Probably why I leave it at home most of the time now-a-days.

Last couple years I went out all year round. This year I've pretty much called it for the rest of the season. Last couple times I went out the fishes mouths were clamped shut and though the weather was lovely, it wasn't much fun. Oh, guess the other big reason is the Honey-Do list. It is long, and I've pretty much worn out any and all promises those things'll get done ... next week. I may hit local docks a few times, though, just to keep my casting fresh. Might even target non-bass for fun.

The answer is yes, sometimes, and maybe. I've tried it, and it definitely catches fish...all types.

Welcome to the site, Robin!

Welcome, and thanks for your service to protect our freedom, JD!