lmbfisherman

Don't worry about the Shimano composite frames, they are quality. Get the I for 129 at a lot of places now.

If you can't afford a new reel, then get it. Solid work horse, but if you can save and get a newer one save. I wouldn't pay more than 60 too.

I like wacky rig, other than Darren version of weedless, I buy wacky hooks premade weedless. I catch far more fish wacky.

Yes overall since most of the techniques being used would be the ratio I'd use it for. However the only thing, my preference for plastics is using a 7 ratio. Just means you need to buy another setup next year. Haha

Anyone around the area the next few days want to hook up? I tried a few places but most of the places that was previously stated are either built up, fenced up or have no trespassing signs. Guess a lot of people are annoyed with the bass fishing?

Welcome to the forums. This is more of a "Bass" forum, probably should post this in a saltwater forum, as I'm somewhat experienced with saltwater...I would just get one of those cheap basic rod and reel made for salt. Basically you don't need a sensitive rod because most species in salt hit your bait like a freight train. If you want high end, go get an inshore rod by Loomis (Green Water). Stella SW for the reel.

Regarding the Steez vs Conquest, interesting most people have the opposite opinion. That being said, it sounds like you like low pro more than round. If that's it keep the Steez. As for the rod, get the one that makes you happy. If it were me the Loomis would take the nod, the MBR series is supposed to be great all around. It sounds like you are used to St Croix's "Fast" so I'd say get the St Croix.

Curado 70 and 200 are on sale. Get them, of course I'm a Shimano fan. But Daiwa and Shimano make awesome reels.

Conquest HG.

Really like the looks of the Tatula Elite rods, but I'm going to wait to see if people have good feedback. Don't want to be hooked just by looks.

Zodias for me. Zodias though is a higher end rod vs the Mojo, in my opinion not apples to apples. The Avid would be more in line. I have 5 Zodias rods, (3) were my go to rods last season. I recently picked up 2, they will be in my tourney rotation this year.

Sweet!

Whatever floats your boat?

It was my first thought when I saw the tear down on YouTube. Don't know how it works. Maybe DVT can tell us, I believe he purchased one.

You guys are making me rethink instead of getting another JDM Met MGL, I should try a Ch MGL....I hear the Curado is going to be replaced at ICast....MGL?

Yeah so did I, didn't realize they were on sale during the classic. Well dropped more during the classic. None left! Thanks though!

Sounds like CH MGL is getting great reviews, I've seen a few stating the same thing. Great catches btw!

That sale is tempting. If I lived closer I would've given up. ? Metanium MGL! You have one? If not get it!

Don't sway me one way...must resist. ? I already have more reels than rods at the moment! You must be team monkeys helper.

I've never had a break off like that unless I was using Vanish. I agree with Angry John, not wetting the line properly. Also is the picture you showed the end knot result? If it is, definitely not cinched down properly. Also for the Alberto if you go back out the wrong way, the knot I believe will slip.

Hmm I've never had this issue. Practice makes perfect though.

I have a couple, but not a fan. Most of my reels are 6s and 7s. I use my XGs for jigs and plastics in general, definitely too fast for other things. I'd stick with the 6 and 7s for everything else.

I was going to drive out to get one of those IMX MBRs but luckily (unluckily) I called, they sold so fast. Drive would've been two hours. I would've gotten that Steez too, but I didn't think it was worth it without getting the IMX too.

Last two years my money maker for smallmouth especially was a weightless Texas rigged worm. I always have one tied.

Definitely worth it if you like the 50 sized reels. Personally I still have one and a Chronarch 50e. Probably will never let them go cause you can snazzy them up. However, I find the 70s better.