Cgrinder

Yeah I'd look at the rubber and brass pieces under the cast control knob. If they're flat, replacements could improve what you describe. I know I had that issue with my Sol and replacing them did the trick.

Just put an SV spool in your TD-Z. Problem solved.

Line conditioner does wonders for Hybrid of all tests. Compare based on diameter and you're good to go.

Megabass Orochi XX Diablo Spec R is what I like @ $300. However, the Shimano Zodias is a lot of rod @ $200.

Can't argue with the price of Pad Crashers. They might actually be too soft; I find that other brands throw water better and walk better. They still catch fish and Dick's occasionally has 'em for $4 each. I have high hopes for the new Terminator frog. Most of the hollow-body frogs that I've tried have some glaring weakness (durability, action, softness, price efficiency, etc).

$300 ish right now. Shipping is like $15? Something like that. I know Japan Lure Shop has/had one.

That probably looks pretty good, or at least unique.

Yeah, but don't cheap out on baitcasting reels unless you want to give yourself an aneurysm.

Triumph spinning rods are legit. Versatile and inexpensive.

Yep. Goose has it right. I've been out enjoying my NRX instead of arguing. XD

I have concerns about long term durability of aluminum micro gears under heavy use conditions. But I suppose replacing a gear set every 2-3 years wouldn't be the end of the world.

Showdown update: Ci4+ is a wild child. Digging it though. Finally found something that feels good on the Zodias. I might do a lengthy write-up at season's end or before; JDM Met prices are still falling and I think Mets are going to soon be attainable for those who previously wrote them off due to price. Plus, showdowns are cool.

They're a staple. I fish a lot of public, pressured shore where the fish see spinnerbaits all day. The staple is a 3/8 oz Siebert bullet-style jig with a 4"-ish paddletail trailer. I favor bluegill patterns and the occasional blue/black.

Do what is comfortable. I am right hand dominant so I prefer to cast and use the rod with that hand, so I reel left-handed. Feels good.

I use four turns with pretty much everything.

G. Loomis and NFC are not affiliated. If we could build NRX blanks, we would.

Weird. Mine does not do that.

Probably not, but you know, you do you.

There are a few guys who fish Orochi XX rods. I think a combination of electronics, individual skill, and the techniques that tend to win sort of makes "super sensitive" rods unnecessary at that level. I also think straight fluorocarbon helps.

This thread is a good reminder not to mix health advice and the internet.

CXX does not sink. It floats or is neutrally buoyant; haven't experimented to see which. It's also stretchy but the abrasion resistance is excellent. Hybrid is neutrally buoyant (which you probably know). I'm sorry you didn't like it. I'm usually not a fan myself but the 6 lb is actually pretty legit. Still doesn't sink though. Hi Seas Grand Slam copoly seems to sink but it didn't wow me in any aspect. Sniper is thin for lb test, so I'd agree with 16 lb (maybe higher) or a move to Shooter. I like Shooter but it requires line conditioner and a good, stern talking-to every outing.

You do you. Tie what makes you comfortable and lands fish. Personally never had a San Diego Jam knot fail. I have had more than one Improved Clinch slip.

Very hard to compete with the Zodias @ $200 IMO.

Yeah. Chasing enthusiast tackle is exhausting. November through March is my break. I don't shop much during hard water.

Treat it like Fluoro. San Diego Jam is my preference.