Arv

Split shot rigs are definitely a good way to catch fish. I don't fish them just because I'm working on refining other skills right now. You could also texas rig with a bullet weight or carolina rig it (essentially just a bigger version of the split shot rig. Or just fish it weightless. IMO, if you're catching fish, you're rigging it right.

I started out with a leader b/c I used mostly fluoro or copoly. Ive started going straight braid and gaining confidence but I do put a leader on every once in a while if I'm not getting bit. Sometimes I continue not to get bit. Sometimes I get bit more, or start getting bites period.

All my casting reels are 6:1. Given the IPT is slightly different for each reel given different makers, I like to know if I am reeling faster or slower across the board with all my set ups based on how fast I am reeling, not the gear ratio. Just personal preference.

A lot will boil down to personal preference but the application and cover you are fishing should be considered. IMO, most general purpose rods will fall between 6'6-7' with 7' being most peoples standard ''all around'' round length. As mentioned before, shorter rods will give you more accurate casting abilities. I use a 6'9 rod for squarebills and a 6'10 rod for skipping around docks becuase those require more accuracy for me. The rest of my rods are 7' and above. Longer rods, 7'6+, might be used for heavier applications like pitching, flipping, punching, frogging, swimbaits, deep diving cranks or dragging a heavy football jig or C rig. Again, most of this comes down to personal preference given your situation. I know some guys that like to pitch with 6'6 rods. If you are looking for a "do it all" rod, most would suggest a 7' MH/F rod. Hopefully thats helpful.

This is what it looks like to me as well. I haven't read much about them yet. I'm gonna wait until they hit the market and people start getting some reviews out on how they do in the water before I jump all over them.

I think whenever I hear that a reaction rod doesn't need to be sensitive, it may be taken over the top by some. I still think you need sensitivity in a reaction rod, just not to the extent that is required in a worm/jig rod. I feel like, because the bait is moving at a higher speed than a jig/worm, if it runs into something, gets snagged, etc., you should be able to detect it more easily than when dragging and/or hopping a bottom contact lure. Still though, you need a rod that can distinguish between a fish and a bunch of weeds.

My guess is someone tried to get creative with a mold. Not sure what the purpose of those notches would be.

I'm right handed. I reel left handed. I never had trouble reeling right handed, but controling the rod and setting the hook with my left hand was awkward for me. I'm sure I could have gotten used to it if I gave it time but I can find all the LH reels I need to do my fishing.

PQ/Carbonlite combo fo sho. Unless you find something used, you won't get a better deal than that.

bass pro shops - pro qualifier

I'd recommend braid. Fluoro sinks. Braid floats and will be good for spinnerbaits, most top waters and frogs.

12 and 16 for 3/8 and up 10 and 12 for 3/8 and down

I use 1/0 Gamakatsu octopus hooks, 1/0 Gamakatsu weedless dropshot/split shot hooks and VMC Wacky Weedless Jig heads which I believe also has a 1/0 hook.

Not to be that guy, but I'd throw in the Shimano Chronarch and Lews Tournament Pro. If you're dead set on the other brands, I'd also wait for the Tatula to come out and hear a few reviews. It seems like its going to be a sweet reel.

All except my cranking set up have braid now. I love the stuff. I do tie leaders on pretty often though. I can catch fish on straight braid, but there are definitely times when adding a leader helps a ton.

Lews Tournament, Shimano Citica, Abu Revo, Daiwa Lexa

I like them more. Personally I like the cork more than foam. They are super sensitive, right up there with my Dobyns Champ IMO. Possibly my favorite aspect is that they balance so well with any reel I put on them. I've put a Curado 51e and an old Gen 1 Revo S on my 723CEF and the rod still balances amazingly.

Pretty much the only rods I plan on buying from now on. IMO, by far the best rods for the money.

This! I get a lot more bites when I fish a 1/4 and 3/8oz jig. I've also caught many more fish when they subtly pick it up off the bottom. I feel like that happens 80% - 90% of the time for me. Rarely to I get smashed on the fall with a jig.

No option for both?

I use 16# Fluoro. I've also use 12# copoly. I just prefer fluoro.

If thats your price range I'd strongly recommend that combo. I have 2 Pro Qualifiers and I don't think they can be beat for the money. I've never fished the Carbonlite, but have held it several times. It feels very comfortable in my hands and gets good reviews from those that have used it.

How much are you looking to spend on the rod? You can get a Pro Qualifier/Carbonlite combo from bps for 160. Thats a 100 dollar reel and a 120 dollar rod for significantly less.

Zoom Finesse worms and 4'' Robo Worms

St. Croix Avid or Powell Endurance get my vote. Check out the Phenix Recon and M1 as well.