John E

Hi. I generally use a Gamakatsu 3/0 or 4/0 EWG but I'm trying the Owner Twist lock hooks now. I use them mostly for fluke baits (Yamamoto D-Shads and Zoom Super Flukes). I have been noticing that my line and knots keep getting tangled in the spring mechanism and often have to re-tie after every fish. Any thoughts on that or recommended best practices? Thanks for all the excellent thoughts above.

Hi. I've also noticed that the Stradic models 2500 and 3000 have different gear ratios. At least that's what I'm seeing at Bass Pro and Tackle Warehouse. On another note. Any thoughts regarding reel gear ratios? I have a Stradic 2500 FM with a ratio of 5.8:1 (34" IPT). I use it mostly with Fluke style baits and some light worming where I do a lot of my action with rod twitching. I'm finding it a challenge to get the slack in timely and missing fish. I see that the Stradic 3000 FM has a higher gear ration of 6.4:1 (37" IPT) and was wondering if this would make much of a difference? Thanks.

For wiring, I recommend the Wilderness Systems Through-Hull Wiring Kit for Kayaks. They work well without having to line up any side holes for retaining screws. Just drill, place in the hole and screw on the retaining ring from the inside. Hope this helps. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075JMN2SP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought an Old Town 106 Sportsman PDL and love it. Some may find it's 10'6" length a little cramped but I fit a Yak Attack crate in the back with no problem. Here's my overall take... The plus side... The PDL drive works great and forward/backwards is great for holding positions. It's also covered with a 5 year limited warranty. I can pedal all day at a leisurely 2 to 3 mph. I can easily pedal enough to get a good reading on my depth finder [Hummingbird Helix 7]. It's 10'6" length makes it easy to store or transport. Fits in my Ford Ranger just fine. The longer 120 may track [in the water] better but I'll defer to the 120 owners. The seat is comfortable. I have no problem standing and casting. Sturdy hull design. Love the universal transponder mount. I have a Helix 7 and store the battery [small lithium battery] in the front hatch in a small insulated lunch bag. The forward rod holder [on the left side] works great. On the down-side... The accessary rails are a little short - some may find the track space limited. Like most in it's class, it's a little wide for stability. Paddling all day can be a little rough. The propeller drive will get caught in heavy weeds so, expect to have to pull it up and paddle. It's a little heavy and awkward to lift, though I would guess no more than others in it's class. I'm 62 and in decent shape. Still - I'll be looking for some kind of trailer in the near future. Would love any suggestions on that. Over all, I am very happy with this purchase. See attached picture below. Sorry - left my jacket on the seat. :(

Agreed. I have an Old Town 106 PDL and love it. I can easily stand in it and being only 10'6, it fits well enough in my Ford Ranger. I can go virtually anywhere - provided I paddle in the thick weeds. The ability to pedal forwards/back is a real plus for holding a position, especially when in a Kayak, you tend to get blown around a lot.