GaterB

Thanks guys!

I appreciate the info and not a problem at all that sounds awesome!

I want to use braid on my spinning setup for lighter lure applications, but am unsure what size would works best, or if that even matters? I already own some heavier braid (30 and 50 lb.) for frogging/flipping/jigs and if I don't need to buy more I can save a little cash (always nice). Any advice?

FWIW, I love my Smoke. I can't speak for the EXO. I have read a ton of positive reviews on the Smokes, and what I have read from different sites and forums about the EXO have been mixed.

I'm having trouble trying to decipher what the sizes of spinning reels are. Pflueger has different numbers than other manufacturers. So I guess what I want to ask is what size Pflueger reel would work best for shaky heads, wacky worming, and drop shotting?

Couldn't pass up the rod trade in deal on the bionic blade micro spinning rod. With a gift card i had I got it for $40. Didn't know much about that particular line but for that kind of deal if I don't like it I didn't get burned too bad and I'll know next time!

That's exactly why I was thinking of trying it. I want some buoyancy for my trick worm, lizard, or fluke that ill be using.

I appreciate it I'll give those a look for sure

I'm going to pick up a new spinning rod tomorrow at BPS. Does anybody have any advice on the best for $99-150? Looking to fish drop shot and shaky heads on it.

Anyone ever tie a mono leader to fluorocarbon for carolina rigging?

Thanks everybody. The line visibility issue only concerns me when fishing other techniques on the braid like t-rigs or jigs. Hadn't thought about the leader, so that's most likely what I'll do. Thanks again!

I have braid on one now, but was worried about the fish being line-shy in water that has high visibility

Does anyone use anything besides braid for frog fishing? I can't afford to have a frog only setup but I haven't heard or seen anyone use anything but braid for frogging..

Great deal on a quality reel. My gf just got me one for around the same price on Amazon, and I love it. The ACS braking system is different from my other reels, but once dialed in it bombs lures. Super smooth on the retrieve as well.

Another vote for Lew's. So smooth.

She got me the Smoke! She's a keeper.

You're going to find a lot of different answers based on people's brand preference. Everyone has an opinion on which is the best, and everyone likes different things for different reasons. I would try to mount a few reels that interest you on the rod you intend to use it with. See how it palms, balances, and feels on the rod in general. I honestly have no set brand preference, as I have Lew's, Shimano, Quantum, and BPS baitcasters in my lineup. It's all about what's comfortable. That being said, with any of the major brands you're going to get what you pay for. I will add that the BPS Pro Qualifier is a terrific reel for 100 bucks. Hopefully that helps a little, and good luck!

Christian M. I too have the nitrous, and for the price it really isn't a bad reel at all! Being my only Quantum at the moment, though, I want to try out some of Quantum's higher end offerings because of how impressed I was with such an affordable reel.

I definitely agree. I would love to try out an exo, but that's just not an option. The best looking option from Quantum is the smoke IMO, but I have yet to get my hands on one.

Thanks for the info guys!

Hey everyone, I was just wondering if anyone has used the Quantum Kinetic reel? They are offered for good prices online, but I can't find many reviews on them. My girlfriend was going to buy me one for Valentine's Day but asked me first what I thought. Any thoughts?

Haha yeah it's still there! They stock it every so often and have fish feeders all over it, but most of the bass are pretty small. Haven't had much luck there but its my best option since i'm in school and don't have a boat.

Just wondering if anybody has fished Lake Johnson in Spartanburg, SC recently? I went today, and threw around a jerkbait and a T rig with no luck. Saw bass feeding activity in the shallows but couldn't coax a bite. Any tips?

Thanks everybody!

Are the advantages of fluro worth the extra cash? I haven't used it much at all, but everything I read seems to suggest it is a must for certain situations. Furthermore, what brands seem to be the most reliable?