Cgrinder

Awesome. Any updates on Daiwa knob compatibility? My Sol neeeeeds that 90mm handle.

I cut my pinky finger tightening 10 lb. Power Pro at least once a week. It happens.

I used it for a bit when I was learning braid and didn't have any issues. However I would take Scott F's advice and use another knot. The 5-7 turn Uni has served me well with all lb. tests of Power Pro.

The white Okuma Stratus that Dick's sells is actually a pretty serviceable reel for the $30.

You're going to have a hard time throwing 1/4 oz on a MH Veritas. Try tension loose enough to drop the lure freely, centrifugal brakes 3 on/3 off, and magnetic dial around 4-5 and adjust from there. The Pro Q doesn't excel at lighter lures but it can be done.

If a reel is fished heavily for a while, things can start to go wrong. Also the Smokes came out in 2010(?), so it's perfectly reasonable that your reel could require maintenance. If you do set out to take it apart yourself, get some very good (ideally new) screwdrivers. Stripping a screw is a very real danger.

I think it's worth the $20 to send it to Mike at DVT. A lot of things can go wrong when opening a reel.

Green pumpkin pearl belly is great. They are good frogs.

I would start with the 6'8" MXF Avid spinning rod.

Contact the manufacturer. They'll help you out, maybe for freeeee.

I think Ron stocks the Tatula rods at Valley Sports. If so, give him a PM and see what he can do for you. His prices are crazy good.

I'll have to come by the store next week. I like buying local.

Dardevle five of diamonds. When you absolutely, positively have to catch every last Pike in the lake, accept no substitutes. I also used to bust skunks with a 1/4 oz gold Kastmaster.

$120-140 depending on condition.

That's good to know.

Well then you're either getting the best deal in the history of the world, or they aren't truly ABEC 9. I don't really have a dog in this fight, so you keep on doin' whatever you like.

My gut tells me that if they cost $20 for a pair, they aren't ABEC 9.

5" yes, 4" maybe.

Siege is some strong stuff. I've straightened hooks with the 8 lb test.

Should be good. You can also call or email 13 for a recommendation. Their customer service department knows their rods very well.

This isn't what you're asking, but for finesse reels I would go Daiwa. I also don't think you need a finesse reel for a DX 743. What are you plotting to throw on the rod?

I would lean towards a Medium power if you're staying around 3/8 oz. I have the MH *** that you're considering and it's a fairly powerful rod. I have good luck frogging with it. I don't like it for flukes and light Texas rigs unless I'm fishing serious cover. I would be looking at a Medium or light MH like a 3-power Dobyns rod, something rated 1/4 to 3/4 oz. I would also get the longest rod possible as you're shore fishing and longer casts are important.

I have a hard time arguing with Paca Chunks for under $2.50 a bag and Pit Bosses for $2.99 or less.

Mike's jigs still have paint after I let my girlfriend fish them. That is more than I can say for (too) many products. God bless wire ties too.

12 lb. would be a good place to start.