ksboy

Like Jigfishin10, I like the bigger blade so I started makin a few of my own. No pics but they are about the same as his.

2nd email sent. PM sent.

A&M Baits has their store in Eufala. You might be able to go to their website and get some info or give them a call for advice.

I went to L of Oz last year for the first time. I didn't bring the boat because it was a family thing. Now I wish I had taken it. I fished from the shore with my grandson and caught a few nice bass. We stopped at the Osage Bch Bait and Tackle on the way to the State Park where we fished. I think they call it the Graize Arm (or something like that). Anyway, it's a cool little store. They have lots of stuff (a little pricey, I thought). I bought two buzzbaits of an interesting design. They were built with a flat head long enough for the blade to hit the head on each turn. Really made a lot of noise in the water. Look forward to our next trip when I WILL take the boat.

I agree with "dave". Probably the speed you are reeling. For instance if you are retrieving a Buzz with a clockwise blade, it will lay on one side and a counter-clockwise blade will lay on the other side. Before casting, check that the wire is straight and in line with the head and hook of the bait. Then try retrieving a little slower till you get it to stay upright. Also, I've notice that if I don't get the trailer threaded on straight, it will lean one way or the other. I don't know who said this but I think he/she was right: "If it was easy, anyone could do it".

email sent.

There are close to twenty lakes in NE Ok I'd like to fish this year that I haven't been to before. Among them are: Oolagah Hudson Copan Birch Hominy Skiatook Pawhuska City Been to and would like to go back to: Lone Chimney Blue Stem Fairfax Ponca City Pawnee Sooner If my partner were retired, we would probably have a better chance of getting this done but he's a ways from that yet.

Duh!!! Thanks. I guess I had dyslexia when I looked at the leaderboard yesterday. Or they had the day 1 and day 2 catches backwards.

I'm having difficulty figuring how Paul Mueller can catch 3 fish weighing 32# 3 ounces and the biggest fish be 8# 2 Ounces. Can someone help me with this???

I usually use BPS Excel because I think it has less memory than some lines have. I guess most guys tend to stick with what works for them. Once you have success with something, it just seems like you stick with it. I have used Trilene in years past but once I tried Excel, I was pretty pleased. Not to mention you can buy 1200 yds for 10 bucks. Just my 2c.

Is there no way to run an extension cord at the storage place? You could plug an "on board charger" into a heavy gauge cord. If he owners won't allow it, offer them more $$$. Just a thought.

Topwater is the most exciting way to catch a fish, especially if it comes all the way out of the water to get the lure. I am particularly fond of buzzbaits and frogs but I, like most guys, also use "walk the dog" type baits. Get cheap ones or expensive ones, they all do pretty much the same thing. The key to fishing these type baits and having success with them is, in my opinion, to keep a slack line. This is something you wouldn't do with most other type presentations. The slack line aids in the bait movement from side to side. The other thing about fishing from any kind of water vehicle is that you are now fishing from the opposite side of the bank. You are opening up new adventures and possibilities when fishing FROM the water as opposed to TO the water. Have fun with whatever you choose to do.

Good ole BPS Excel 12# for me.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Just be prepared for some nasty backlashes unless you have a very well trained thumb This is the important part of using a baitcaster.

So, what's the NAME of the place?

If it were me I'd start off with an older model depth finder with temperature module installed. The newer, Side Imaging, Down Imaging models are pretty complicated and can cost a lot if you get the bigger ones. BR usually has some used ones in the fishing flea market. You can always go to Ebay or some of the other sights as well. My 2c worth.

You are a true artist!!!

The three boats I've owned all had the power wires from the TM along the port side of the boat to the battery compartment. I would stay away from the console as there is no need for any trolling motor power wiring there (it would just confuse the issue). The fuse was installed just before the battery on the positive side. I believe the size of the fuse depends on the amperage of the motor. Don't quote me but I believe a 70# thrust requires a 50A fuse. I think the manufacturer would put the correct size wire (6 or 8 gauge) on their motor. I don't profess to know much about electricity or mechanics but I believe in the old adage "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

I also like the Gam skip-gap. They really keep the bait on the hook nicely. A little pricey though. Also use Gam g lock and EWG.

x2

With the newer technology, I think some guys don't realize that in days past, your thumb WAS the centrifugal brake. I saw Jimmy Houston one time at a seminar and he said he uses only his thumb, sets he brake all he way out so the spool runs free. Depends on how you are trained when you begin, I guess.

Did you do any good? Was there ice in the lake??

They've got some in Wichita but they are $60. (Regular price)

If there's a boat listed anywhere and it's a really good deal, it won't last long because you aren't the only guy looking for a boat. There's some very helpful info responding to your original question. Take the info you have and make your decision. Everyone has their own opinion about what's the most important issue in buying a boat. Ultimately, it's your money and your comfort level.

Great trip report. Love the pics. I can't help but think how difficult it must have been, fishing in that weather (and taking great pics, to boot).