Conference wahoo::fishing

    Well Don,  I guess we have more in common than just being a couple
of nice guys.  I have only one baitcaster and four spinning.  I also
would like to pick up another baitcaster.  I find myself using the bait-
caster 85% of the time.  I have a Shimano baitcaster mounted on a Quantum
5'9"rod and I love it.  I had a Fenwick rod but I had a bitch of a time with
back-lashes, since I got the Quantum I haven't had a bit of trouble.  I picked
up a beautiful Tournament Edition Shimano spinning rod that I love.  Its the 
type that the reel mounts right on the rod blank itself...It's a cocker.  I
am not at all happy with the Shimano GTX2200 (?) reel I have on it.  The drag
is the worst....I wrote to Shimano about it but I haven't heard back yet. I may
replace it with the Quantum Spinning reel, which I heard has a super smooth 
drag.

     I use my spinning for the same things Don does, Rapalas,small top water
plugs, spoons and worm'in.  I use the baitcaster for everything else.  I can
chuck a top water plug in an opening surrounded by the thickiest cover and 
just crank that sucker right out of there.

     I usually use 8lb. test on the spinning rods and 10-12 on the baitcaster.
If anyone happens to see a good deal on baitcasters through the holidays, be
sure to pass it on to all of us.

						John Waters

						The Legend  

    re.1
    
    that can't be written by the jon we all know and hate.
    
    There must be two of them
    
    

    
    RE: .0,.1
    
    Should we get real efficient and just write one common Xmas list
    here ?  I know mine's gonna have a new baitcasting outfit on top.
    
    My one baitcaster is an ABU 5000 on a 5'6' Berkely Cherrywood. 
    The rod's on the insensitive side (kinda like the Legend) but boy
    has it got a backbone!  Like a lotta semi-novices, I avoided
    baitcasting equipment for the first couple years ( I remembered
    using my fathers c. 1940 outfit as a kid and backlashing about 200
    yds of braided line in one cast; never got second cast ).  After
    a couple summers getting comfortable with one, I find I don't use
    my spinning setups except for the ultralight with safety-pin and
    in-line spinners.
    
    The short rod seems best for heavy spinnerbaits;  I can really toss
    one a mile with it but wormin' does call for a longer rod.  The
    ABU is a nice reel, too but I hunger for a  smaller, palmable reel
    that I can use with lighter line ( I keep 12-14 lb on the ABU ).
    
    I'm open to suggestions on a nice baitcasting wormin' setup.  Money
    shouldn't be an object, my wife's buyin' ( really like to keep it
    under $125 ).  
    
    Merry Xmas,
    Steve

     any comments on the berkley BIONIX. THINKING of getting one for
    xmas. i have 2 shimano 2001 baitcasting reels and have not had a
    problem with them yet. a good buy at the price. 59$ a piece.
    
    input on the "BIONIX"
    
    THANKS, MARK

    RE.3  Steve, have you seen the Bass Pro's Christmas catalog?
    ABU/Garicia has a couple new reels out.  The Lite and the Lite plus,
    amd they are reasonably priced.  The Lite's just $38.88, it's just
    a basic baitcaster (new style, graphite and palmable, and I think
    it has a thumb-bar).  And the Lite Plus is just a few bucks more
    and it has Magnetic Control.  I think I'm going to put a Lite on
    my Christmas List - I'd probably use it for spinnerbaits.
                                                      
    For a worm'n reel I use Quantum's QD1610 (~$70), it has the flip'n
    switch, etc... 
    
    Don Mac - who likes those lifetime warranties 

    I was up at Northern Bass yesterday (getting a new steering cable
    for my Motorguide electic) and I happen to look at the ALL STAR
    rods they had on the rack. I was very impress by the quality, the
    sensitivity (96% graphite blank and reel seat) and 5 year warranty 
    they carry. They were a little more expensive ($79 for what I was
    looking at) but seemed to be worth it. All I need now is get my
    wife to get up there and do some Xmas shopping, I told Barry Hunt,
    the owner, to steer her over to this rack and give her a sales job
    on model # RS1. It's a 6ft. 6in. "skipping" rod which can be reduced
    to about 5ft. 9inches for easy storage by pushing firmly on the butt. 
                                                             
    
    
    				Lookin' for a to get Xmas to come early...
    
    
    						Jim

    Thanks Jim.....  I was racking my brains out, trying to figure out
    what I was going to get you for Christmas!  I'll get down there
    today!
    
    Can the rest of you guys give me a clue to what you all would like?
    
    I want to buy for all of you!  You've been so kind to me all year!
    
    						Loveable Legend
    
    Worm....no need to reply.....I got you a real nice MUSSLE!

    Thanks Rich,  Keep turning that blade...it feels great!
    
    I have your gift already.  Its a Zebco 202 combo!  You can throw
    your SNOOPY set away.
    
    I hate you!
    
    						Legend

    
    THIS note file used to be very informative , now its just a bunch
    of crap. LETS get back into it. share some fishing knowledge with
    us all and leave the insults to vaxmail.
    
    it seems as we lost the great input by RR ,and i think that stinks.
    the way this note file is going we will probably all lose.
    
    LETS GET BACK TO THE BASICS.
    
    GET THE PICTURE, MARK
    
    ANY BAD COMMENTS ,SEND VAXMAIL

    I couldn't agree more with 521.11!! Any time I try to get some fishing
    info (although I try to share what I can with others), no one provides
    any input, save fore Wayne Hunter and the Beach Bagel, both of whom
    appear to really know what they're talking about. Face it, this
    is becoming an "Elk's Club" for B.A.S.S. types. If you don't write
    about motors, equipment or tournaments or aren't one of a select
    group of guys, no one responds.
     for example, several weeks ago I asked for help on cold weather
    Bass fishing and got squat for replies. Either nobody knows anything,
    these tournaments are a smokescreen, or folks have forgotten that
    part of the real ethic of fishing isn't just catch and release,
    it's helping others. I suggest that you create a separate file, call
    it Bass fishing and leave this one to those of us who are willing
    to share information with others.
    
    The Aggravated Skoal Bandit
    

    
    Try some of the following notes, Skoal.  This topic has been brought 
    up many times (and this list only includes the ones with meaningful 
    titles).

   180  JUNIOR::FLOOD        14-SEP-1986     2  fall fishing help
   205   TORCH::MACINTYRE    15-OCT-1986     4  Cold Water Bass'n, New England Style
   467  MOSAIC::BEAUDREAU     3-SEP-1987     5  ANY FALL BASSIN' TIPS?
   474   PIGGY::VARLEY       14-SEP-1987     4  It's Fall, Do You Know Where Your Trout Is?
   475  NUGGET::BICKES       15-SEP-1987     8  FALL STOCKING OF TROUT ? ?
   507   HELIX::COTHRAN      14-OCT-1987    19  Fall Bass
   (I think your last one was 517?)
    
    donmac (not wearing his co-moderator hat, just trying to be helpful)

    I checked out the Quantum Transmitter 6'6" long handle baitcasting 
    rods Saturday at Zylas.  Didn't feel as sensitive as my 5'9" version
    of the same rod, although it did have the backbone.  But I think
    I'd prefer to keep my shorter version, than give up the sensitivity.
                                     
    Played with a real nive Lamiglass baitcaster 5'6", med action. 
    Wow, was this rod sensitive - but it just didn't have enough back
    bone for me.                     
                                     
    I almost went up to NBS, Jim, to check out those All Star's, but
    it was too late in the afternoon (they close at 2pm on Sat I think).
    That's pitch'n rod sounds like it may be what I'm look'n for...
    
    Don Mac
    
    PS: went out in the canoe for a few hours on Sunday afternon - noth'n 
            

    DonMac, many thanks! Just when I was about to give up on this as
    a Fishin' file, you come through with flying colors. Personally,
    I always figured that if I was a tobacco chewin' redneck who likes
    Ol' Waylon, I had the potential to be a decent Bass fisherman -
    even if I didn't have coveralls with patches on them and fish in
    serious tournaments. Unfortunately, no one told old micropterus
    salmoides, so lately I've been the ultimate catch and release guy
    - no catch!
    
    Tight Lines,
    
    - The Bandit

    Don,
    Northern Bass is open until 7PM on week nights for your info.
    I spent 3 an 1/2 hours on Beaver, Sunday and got 7 LM's with the 
    biggest about 4lbs. They were all pretty shallow for this time 
    of year (3 to 8ft) and were taking  1/8 oz. black pig n' jigs.
    
    
    					Keeping at it...
    
    							Jim

    Jim, that's about how long we were out on Sunday, but we got skunked.
    We were at some small pond in Rindge (I don't even know the name).
    We were in a canoe and the wind did a number on us. (my truck's
    getting it's side fixed so I haven't been able to tow the boat for
    the last couple of weeks 8^(                
                                                
    Anyway, job well done, 7 bass this time of year is a pretty good
    show.  Don Mac - who hasn't hung his rods up yet either!

    WELL, TO GET BACK TO THE ORIGINAL SUBJECT, I OWN A VARITY OF RODS
    BUT ALWAYS SEEN TO RELY ON THE SAME TWO. I OWN A HEDDON 5 1/2 FT.
    CUSTOM CERAMIC BASSIN ROD TIED WITH STAINLESS STEEL WRAP. IT IS
    A PISTOL GRIP WHICH I FIND VERY COMFORTABLE. THE GRIP DETACHES.
    IT IS PAIRED WITH A GARCIA 6500c BAIT CASTER WITH 6:1 RETRIEVE RATIO
    TO RIP JUST ABOUT ANYTHING ACROSS THE SURFACE TO UPSET ANY BASS
    WHILLE SLEEPING.
        MY OTHER PAL IS AN 8 1/5' GARCIA SPINNING ROD WITH A "VINTAGE"
    (10YR OLD)----------
    GARCIA 300c. (I HAVE TWO) AS YOU CAN SEE I LIKE GARCIA. THE ADVANTAGE
    OF THE BAIT CASTER IS HEAVY LINE AND CASTABILITY IN TIGHT SPOTS.
    THE ADVANTAGE OF THE SPINNING ROD IS VERSATILITY. THE SPINNING ROD
    IS ALLSO MED. HEAVY. PLENTY OF ACTION BUT ALSO PLENTY STRONG.
        I ALSO ENJOY USING MY ULTRA LIGHT DIAWA WITH 4LB TEST. ITS UNREAL
    ACTION AND FUN WHEN JUST ABOUT ANYTHING HITS. IT'S ALSO EASY TO
    PACK.
        I ALSO HAVE A HEDDON FLY ROD (WHICH I DO NOT USE SINCE I AM
    LAZY BUT PLAN TO SOME DAY) AND TWO OCEAN RODS & REELS. (YES I ALSO
    LIKE TO SEE WHAT SURPRISES THE SEA CAN BRING UP WHEN GIVIN A CHANCE)
    BLACKFISH,BLUEFISH,SEABASS,SCUP.
                                      GUESS I'LL TRY ICE FISHING AGAIN
                         THIS WINTER. I FROZE DOING IT LAST WINTER FOR
                         ONE LOUSY BASS.------BUT IT WAS WORTH IT!
    
    NIGHTCRAWLER~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    
    I checked out the berkly series one rod. this rod was extremly
    sensitive. its light and quality built. very expensive, 80$.
    the question i have is, is it worth the money? are thier better
    rods out thier at that price? any info would be much appreciated.
    
    a bassman who needs another toy for the long winter.
    casting rubber worms at my cat just to pass the time. mark

    
    WOW... Casting rubber worms at the cat?  I love it.  I have been
    just throwing golf balls at the dam thing.
    
    
    

I used to cast rubber worms at my cat too!



I don't have a cat anymore, though....



I left the 4/0 hook in the worm...



BUT WHAT A FIGHT!!
    
    
    

    What size/style/action rod are you looking for?
    
    If it happens to be a spinning rod, I'd check out the Lamaglass
    rods at Zyla's. I haven't used one, but BOY, do they look and feel
    nice.  Joe, did you end up buying one of those?
    
    I'm looking for a baitcaster for worm'n and will check out those 
    All Star's mentioned earlier...
    
    As far as casting for cats goes, I prefer BPS's Incredible Craw
    over worms.  Much better action on both carpet and hard floors.
    And for a rod I use a small jigging rod equiped with a spincast
    reel.  Six pound test is good enough for me.  AND, I tie direct
    to the craw, my wife won't let me use hooks...  She even gets 
    upset when I miss cast and wipe out a plant...
    
    Don Mac 

    I am glad someone let this winter sport out of the closet, I thought
    that I was the only one....
    I prefer a 6 inch worm and weightless, and of course I tie directly
    to the worm(hookless). When things get really rough, you can try
    to spray a little catnip.  Grape color seems to work best.  Casting
    from the second floor down the stairs can provide added excitement.
    
    Lou

    I was out Christmas shopping for my wife last night, and picked
    myself up a new rod! (of course, I bought gifts as well...) 
                                                           
    I was in Service Merchandise, in Manchester NH, and by force of
    habit, I checked out the tackle section.  There having a 25% off
    clearance on all there rods.  I looked at a Daiwa Samuri, 5'6"
    med/heav action and fell in love with it - especially for $18!
    I can't believe how sensitive it is.  I think it's radial graphite,
    with exposed blank on the underside of the pistol grip. 
    
    Anyway, the prices are great.  If you in the market and in the area,
    check it out.
    
    Don Mac      

You're gonna need more than a Samuri to catch bass!  I'd suggest taking a 
karate course so that you can kung-foo the bass!



Ahhhhhyaaaaahhhheeeee!

    PRO BASS SHOPS HAS A GOOD SELECTION AND GOOD PRICES IF YOU GET THE
    CATALOG TOO. IT IS ALSO A GREAT WAY TO GO IN DEBT OVER THE PHONE.
     
    NIGHTCRAWLER~~~~~~

    Hay a series one user!!
    Good choice...  Watch for K-mart in spring always has good sale
    for berkly..
    
    As for the question: is it worth the price.. Yes
    
    I use mostly bionix and lighting rods.  I have used a series one
    and liked it.  Very light.  The sensitivity was better but not by
    much.  Every strike I felt I would have felt on the bionix if I
    was paying attention.  I did not buy it because it was very different
    from all my other rods..   6 bionix 4 lighting..
    
    Most of my bassing budies use them and like them..  They have had
    more problems with breakage with the series one over the bionix,
    but berkly's life time warrenty is great..  I break about one a
    summer and have never not recieved a new one back..
    
    bass bob
    p.s.  lets us know what you buy!
    

    I went to Herman's in Manchester and picked up an Ugly Stik -Light,
    baitcasting rod.  It cost 40.00 with a 10.00 christmas rebate. 
    It is 5' 6" long and has a stiff medium action.  It seems to transmit
    any tip activity extreemly well (Tested on a short pile industrial
    carpet).  It has a pistol grip.  It is an attractive black rod with
    red and yellow rings at the eyelets.
    
    I have heard only good things about these rods but, as yet, have not
    seen them mentioned. Now that it is too late...any thoughts on these
    poles.  I'll have more this spring!
    
    Right now, I have no regrets, but I am wondering how I am going
    to like casting with the pistol grip (I normally use two hands to
    whip a pole).  Any thoughts on this?
    
    Lastly, I want a nice reel.  I too love life time warrentees, and
    reliable equipment that is easy and efficient to use.  I have not
    bought this part of the rig yet!  I am looking for a bait caster,
    but am a little uncertain as to what I should look for.  Any ideas
    here?
    
    Thanks for any input!  You have a chance to make a real Bass fisherman
    out of me before I buy this time!
    
    Al... (perch yanker!)  (If I can borrow this term, I have found
    my cute name!!!)

    Al,
    
    I'll sell you mine, if you want another (I never use it - too heavy)
    
    As for a reel....look into the ABU (Abdu Garica) 821. Life time
    etc. and real smooth action!!
    
    Ranger Ron

    I got one of the new ABU/Garcia Lite's for Christmas, nice reel
    for the money (under $40 I think) -- no frills, just a smooth working
    reel (baitcaster) with a lifetime warranty.  Oh yea, it's ALOT lighter
    (hence than name) than the older type metal nofrills ABU/Garcia's.
    Don Mac  

    Hey, me too, Don.  Did you get a rod to match?  We must've given
    our wives the same set of specs or something.  She told me to pick
    out my own rod, she was a little overwhelmed and didn't want me
    to have to return anything.  I do the same thing when I buy her
    clothes ;-)
    
    Steve

    Steve, I put it on a Daiwa Samuri rod that I had picked up before
    Chritmas... It casts well...  haven't played a fish yet though...
    I plan on using it for a spinnerbait setup...  donmac

    I was just reading some notes from way back when I came across one
    by The Skoal Bandid where he mentioned Billy Westmoreland's preference
    for "Tennesee" (tape the reel on) graphite handle rods.   
                                                           
    I've been noticing these types of spinning rods lately and I'm curious
    how they work.  I wouldn't think that the reels would be too stable
    if they were just taped on.  And I'd also guess that the tape would
    tend to loosen up under heat and pressure and leave a sticky mess.
                                                           
    Anyone out there use one?                              
         
    Don Mac
                       
                 
                 
                   <<< MSEE::USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]FISHING.NOTE;1 >>>
                        -< Fishing - The Leisure Sport >-
================================================================================
Note 500.11                      worm technique                         11 of 27
PIGGY::VARLEY                                        21 lines   9-OCT-1987 09:20
                           -< Stretching The Point >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 
     I have to disagree with the "light line" theory for worming, if
    you're using Texas Rigs (unless your idea of light line is 10 lbs
    or more, and that weight combined with 1/8 oz bullet weights isn't
    much fun to cast on a stiff worm rod with a bait casting reel).
    I think you get too much stretch (regardless of the brand, although
    you're right about quality manufacturers - and don't overlook ANDE),
    especially if you're fishing deep. However, if you're fishing with
    jigs or any form of exposed hook, then I agree.
     For what it's worth, I had a brief talk with Billy Westmoreland
    at the Sportsmans Show last winter, and he said that if he had to
    pick one all around rod for bass fishing, it would be a "Laser"
    model "Lew's Speed Stick" model LS1 - 156ST, which is a graphite
    spinning rod with a "Tennessee" (Tape the reel on) graphite handle.
    Opinions are like a__holes (everybody's got one), but I regard Billy
    as one of the most knowledgeable guys around on this subject.
     Have any of you guys had any luck fishing pedigo "Spin Rite" or
    Mann's "Little George" type of baits ?
    
    Tight Ones,
    
    The Skoal Bandit
   
  

    re: .33
    
    Rods without reel seats have been used in the surf for a loooong
    time. Although typically the reel does not sit directly on the blank.
    Typically, this is found on rods with grips made of cork tape or
    cord. However, some guys do opt to use regular (hand size) grips,
    with a layer of tape on the blank to protect chafing. Since the
    tape normally used is "electrical"tape (Scotch 33 comes to mind),
    it doesn't diminish the sensitivity any. I have gone this route
    on some rods that have seen quite a bit of punishment in the surf
    and on jetties and never had any problems.
    There are some side benefits to taping on a real, other than increased
    sensitivity:
    	A roll of tape is cheaper than a reel seat (usually)
    	The reel position can be adjusted to fine tune casting performance.
    	For folks with BIG hands, the smaller diameter can be much more
    	comfortable to hold for a long time.
    	In cold weather, this style is much warmer than even graphite
    	reel seats.
    Sometimes on a big rod with a large (>50 mm) stripping guide, it
    is somtimes necessary to 'shim' the reel with a block of wood hollowed
    to fit the rod on one side and fitted to the contour of the reel
    stand/foot. This may be necessary on smaller outfits, depending
    on the relationship of reel size vs. stripping guide to prevent
    "line slap".
    
    Try it...you might like it!
    
    Bagel

    In a pinch I've used hose clamps with a bit a tape to soften the
    hard edges of the clamps. There is a tendancy to tighten the clamps
    a little too tight which might cause damage to the rod.
    
    Tape alone never made me feel very good. I always thought that it
    would come loose at exactly the wrong time (Murphy's law and all of
    that).
    
    	Marty Sasaki

    re:.35 Hose clamps
       My surf rod has had radiator hose clamps holding the reel on
    for about 10 years now. So far, no ill effects.
                                                       Denny

    Any recommendations for any not-too-expensive 7 1/2ft flippin' 
    sticks to check out?  Anyone know what Zyla's currently has for
    flippin' sticks?
    
    Haven't really looked yet, but on the way into work this morning I
    decided I really deserve one... 8^) especially for next month's trip
    to Florida... 
    
    donmac - who has been wanting a 7.5' flippin' stick for years but just
             hasn't gotten around to buying one yet... 

Hey Don,

I was at Zyla's Friday.  They're starting to get their new rods in.  Didn't have
too many of them up on the racks yet.  I looked for a 6'6"-7' flipping stick 
for FL too and was not able to find anything decent (all the rods were medium
action)


Tim

    Tim, Zyla's must have brought all their flippin' sticks to the NH Expo
    then, I picked up a Quantum XL 7.5' flippin' stick for $27 from
    Zyla's booth at the expo!!!!!  They had great deals on the XLs... I
    almost bought another XL rod as well (I already have 3)...  The same 
    rod in the NBS catalog is $48...   can't wait to try it out in Fla!  It'll
    make a great shiner rod as well - but I plan to spend more time flippin 
    than shiner fishing....            
    
    donmac 

    Just out of curiousity, how many fishing rods do each of you guys have?
    One morning on Paugus Bay I saw a bass boat docked alongside a cottage
    with *15* rigged rods lined up along the balcony, all ready to go.
    
    I have three, two spinners and a baitcaster. I get the impression that
    some of you have more than that in the trunk of your cars!
    
    'fes up,
    
    Ed
    

    
    
			I only have "2" rods...
    
    

    
	TOO many!!!

	Let's see, this will be fun...

	Spinning:
	4'9" Ultralight - gitzits/grubs (and occasional trout/salmon)
	6' Med          - same thing, plus real small topwaters
	6' Light 	- telescopic job that I seldom use, kept in truck
	7' Light Surf	- Salt - seldom used
	9' Surf 	- Salt - seldom used    
    
	Baitcasters:
	5'6" Med 	- small topwaters/crankbaits/jerkbaits
        6'6" Med 	- larger topwaters/crankbaits/jerkbaits
	5'9" Med/Heavy  - spinnerbaits
	6' M/H          - buzzbaits 	(new this winter)
        6'6" M/H        - wormin
	5'9" Heavy      - jig-n-pig
	7'6" Heavy      - flippin   	(new this winter)
	
    Plus a flyrod (seldom used) and a couple spincasters that youngsters
    occasionally use 
    
    Let's see that's only 15, geez hope the wife don't see this... 8^)
    
    I don't keep any of my good rods in my truck.  And I TRY to only bring
    4 rods with me fishing.  I'll select them according the the type of
    fishing I expect to be doing.  I have a corner of my basement for my
    fishing stuff.  I made a floor to ceiling, horizontal rod rack on which
    I keep most of my rods.
    
    donmac - who needs a bigger boat with a large lockable rod locker

Hummm....this should be an interesting exercise.

Spinning rods:

	Lamiglass 6'6" heavy action
	Shimano 6'6" med-heavy action
	Shakespear 4'10" ultralight
	Daiwa 6' medium action
	(2) older glass rods

Casting rods:

	AllStar 6'6" med-heavy action
	Lamiglass 6'6" med action
	Shimano 5'9" med action
	Abu 5'9" med-heavy action
	Abu 6' heavy action
	Quantum 6' med action


Fly rods:

	Cortland 9' bass/salmon
	Home-made 7' light action


Saltwater:

	Cortland 7' med-heavy surfcasting


I'm sure there's a few that I've missed.  I usually take 5 rods with me...

	1. All Star WR1 baitcaster for worming & jigs
	2. Shimano 5'9" baitcaster for plugs & spinnerbaits
	3. Abu 5'9" baitcaster for topwaters
	4. Lamiglass spinning for grubs & tubes
	5. Shimano 6'6" for lighter topwaters


-HSJ- (who's trying to justify buying a G. Loomis for big $$$!)

    Talk about FUN!!!!

    Spinning rods:
    	Garcia 6' Ultra-lite 2-8# (Crappie, Bluegill)
    	Shakespeare 6'6" Medium action (Crankbaits, spinnerbaits)

    Baitcasters:
    	Ryobi 5'6" Medium/heavy (Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, light action)
    	Southbend 6'6" (MINUS 2" now) HEAVY (topwater baits now)
    	ABU Conlon 900 6'6" Heavy (NEW this winter, Worms, jigs, etc.)
    	
    Spincasters:
    	Zebco 33 combo (Kids and Company)
    	Johnson  Outfit on 6' Glass rod (Youngest son and whenever I feel
    like just winging lures GREAT distances)
    	Couple other trout stream rods (READ CHEAP!!!!)

    Flyrods:
    	4-5 Weight Glass Fenwick 7 foot (for trout and kids)
    	5-7 weight Glass Fenwick 8 foot (River nymphing)
    	8-10 weight Fenwick 9 foot (Bass, Northerns)
    	Couple Bamboo (keepsakes, I wouldn't put a line on them)

    Th-Th-Th-That's ALL FOLKS!!! (FOR RIGHT NOW, ANYWAY)

 Sheesh- I should tell my wife- I hardly have any!

 Spinning rods:

   Shakespeare 96% graphite 6'6" (my all purpose rod)
   Quantum Saltwater series 7' med-heavy action (bluefish rod)
   Shimano Aeroglas 10' surf rod
   Shakespeare glass rod 6'6" (one I let my wife use)
   Ugly Stiks (a couple of small ones for the kids)

 baitcaster:

   shimano 5'6" graphite

 Fly Rod:

   shakespeare 8wt glass 8'

 deep sea:

 Penn 7' glass jigging rod
 Penn 5'6" standup shark and small tuna rod

 I barely broke into double figures!!!

 The Doctah

    Howdy everyone,
    
    Guess I could reply here....  Since buying my boat (2 summers ago) and
    getting into Tournament fishing (Now there's an excuse for buying new
    and improved rods) I have bought all new rod/reel combos..
    
    Baitcasters:
    
    6' Fenwick Hooksetter Graphite w/ ABU Garcia 521 XLT.  Medium/Heavy
       all purpose rod for Jigs, worming etc.  VERY sensitive rod with
       decent backbone.
    
    5'6" Fenwick HMG Graphite also w/ ABU Garcia 521 XLT.  Medium/Heavy
       Spinnerbaits, Crankbaits,  Topwater etc.
    
    Spinners:
    
    5'10" Allstar Graphite w/ Daiwa Tournament SS1300 reel.  Heavy action.
       used mostly for grubs, tubes, light weight jigs etc.
    
    6'6"  Allstar IM6 Graphite w/ Daiwa Tournament SS1300.   Heavy action.
       used for same as above , plus weightless worms etc.
    
    The two Allstars were new last year as a result of losing a couple
    decent fish last year due to wimpy rods (remember the mighty Quin
    Mr. Bassmaster !!!) .... No more !!!  These rods have more than enough 
    backbone to set hooks !!  
    
    Miscellaneous:
    
    4 or 5 assorted spinning rods, mostly Ugly Stiks ranging from Ultra
    light to medium.  These rods kick around the back of my truck most of
    the time.
    
    Flyrod:  Fenwick 8'6" 7wt. HMG graphite.  All around great rod for 
    	     stupid hatchery trout (the native are definitely too smart
    	     for me when it comes to flyfishing !!)
    
    Ocean:   9' Penn "Slammer" surf rod with Penn 650SS spinning reel.
    	     Bought this last year for blues, but haven't managed to
    	     "Christen" it yet....
    
    Well, that's about it.  I should be all set for now......
    
    
    Gus
    

Spinning:

6'6" M ugly stick w/ Shimano RB1600. 8-12# line, grubs, gitzits, topwater
5'9" M Diawa w/ cheapo Diawa reel -- For kids/ inexperienced friends
8' MH glass surf rod w/ Shimano RB1800(?) -- bluefishing/stripers
5'9" L ugly stick w/ Quantum (?) reel - 4-6# line, ultra-light/trout

Casting:

5'6" Abu IM6 Colonon M w/ Abu LITE+, 12#, small crankbaits and small topwater
6'0" M Abu w/ 521 XLT, 12#, spinnerbaits
6'6" Quantum XLII MH w/ 521 XLT, 12-17#, worms/jigs

Fly:
Fenwick 6wt 8'6" w/ Pfleuger reel (model unknown, ~$35)


Hmm.  Better get some more!

    Might as well get my 2 cents in:
    
    Tuna: 
    
    6' 2" Ulimited class SWEET STIK standup tuna rod, PENN 50TW
    5' 6" Sabre 50-130 standup, PENN 12/0 senator
    
    2 handlines....
    
    Cod:
    
    8' SWEET STIK (lamiglass BT968S blank), PENN 114H (6/0)
    8' Custom Paul's Rod, PENN 113H (4.0)
    6' 6" Abu Conolon, PENN 113
    
    Blues:
    
    7' SWEET STIK (lamiglass extra fast) Poping, PENN 650SS
    7' Fenwick (fast). PENN 650SS
    7' BPS Medium action, Shakespeare supra 080
    
    Ultra Light spinning:
    
    6' Berkley Graphite spinning, single foot guide, Shakespeare supra
       040
    
    
    Surf:
    
    10' Heavy Action (some middle of the road rod, not used much)
    
    More on the way!
    
    Capt. Codfish

    Bruce,
    
    Didn't you break the 7' Fenwick in the fish box last summer?  What ever
    happened to it anyway?
    
    
    Tim
    

    Yes it is broke...but I am going to rebuild it into a 6 foot
    conventional rod when I get time.
    
    Bruce

     I gotta do this half assed, because I can't remember everything right
    here:
    
    Steelhead:
    2 homemade drift/spin rods - 8 1/2' each
    1  7' daiwa lake type rod
    1  8 1/2' casting rod
    2  7 1/2' glass home made
    
    Fly rods:
    1 9 1/2' Orvis 8 wt "rivermaster
    1 montague 7'9" 5 wt bamboo
    1 9' garcia graphite 8 wt
    1 kunnan 8 1/2' graphite 6 wt
    
    ultra lite:
    1 5 1'2' graphite garcia
    1 4 1/2' fenwick
    1 6' fenwick
    
    Bass
    1 all star 3/8-3/4 casting
    1 all star 6 1/2' collapsible crankin'
    1 all star 6' spinning
    1 garcia 5'6" casting
    2 or 3 "bionic blade" spinning rods
    2 fenwick glass baitcasters
    1 lew's speed stick baitcaster (sold 2 others)
     A fairly large pile of rods in the corner of my basement, some of
    which I built, and none of which I remember here...
    
     I need some help! My Shimano 4a-8a spinning reel is enroute, and I
    don't have a rod specifically for it. Also, I need another 2 speed
    baitcaster and a rod to match, probably an all star or bionic blade...
    If I still had the stuff I've given to my nephews or that got stolen,
    I'd be a lot farther ahead...
    
    --the Skoal Bandit
    

    
>>    I need some help! My Shimano 4a-8a spinning reel is enroute, and I
>>    don't have a rod specifically for it. Also, I need another 2 speed
>>    baitcaster and a rod to match, probably an all star or bionic blade...

Hey, Skoal...

Did you forget??



>>    A fairly large pile of rods in the corner of my basement, some of
>>    which I built, and none of which I remember here...
  
Try checking in there!  

    RE: last two.
    Told you he was sick. And you thought your WIFE shopped.
    
    On a half serious side. I have a problem with what to bring in lures.
    When the Bandit comes I almost have no room in the boat. ANd I do have
    a bigger boat, with tons of storage areas. I have -- well I bring --
    three lures boxes -- the large Plano (5 drawer) and Plano 1152 two
    sided worm box and an over/under that has the spinners/jigs/trailers
    and tubes. (Plus I know the storage areas have hidden stuff.)
    I want to just bring the over/under and the worm box. I think 99% of
    the time I could fit everything in there Id ever use. Two POINTS:
       IF WE DO THIS RIGHT
    1. I think 86 bags of worms -- for example -- are not needed.
    2. Folks getting into this hobby would have a listing of the worms one
    would buy, plus, what not.
    Anyone care to comment on how we can do, if we want to?

     You're right HSJ, it's just that the other rods are old and "low
    tech". You know what a crime that is... Besides, I hate to take reels
    off existing rods (especially the ones you tape on, like All Stars. On
    second thought, BPRO had a deal on a steelhead rod.... Hmmmm.
    
    --The Skoal Bandit

    There are a few topics going here: 1) What rods do you use for bass
    				       2) How many rods do you use..
    
    
    First what rods? When I started to compete in bass tournaments I 
    had very few rods.  All where fiberglass.  Most of my firends all had
    advise in what rod to buy.  Of course they all had different opions. 
    Most of them had old rods that they did not use and would let me use.
    
    Try to use as many different ones, you will be able to see what is a 
    good rods or a bad rod.  I found the following as important to me.
    	1) can I feel the fish
    	2) how does the rod feel to me with a reel on it.
        3) what is the backbone of the rod (ie. ultra ligh .vs flippin stick)
        4) Strength of the rod itself.  (will It break all the time or last
    					for ever.
        5) Manufacture's warrenty history
        6) cost $$$$$$$
    
    I was luck that I had friends with lot's of rods to play with.  I did
    not have to go throught the buying of 7 or 8 ones I do not use.
    
    I final pick was Berkly Bionix rods for all around (bass) use.  They
    are graphite and are one of the most senstive rods I ever used.  If it
    breaks send it back..  The new one shows up in about 1 month. The rod
    is super light and you can fish a 10 hour day.  They will break but
    you have to abuse it a little.  The cost  well YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY
    FOR!  
    
    2) How many rods do I have ..  Well first Once I have chosen a rod I
    like, I started to build a supply.  I can use one rod break off a lure
    put it down and pick up anouther that will be the same rod real and all
    They will all feel the same to me.  Then I have the special rods for
    one one kind of lure.
    
    	So the following are the rods that I carry in my bass boat.  These
    are the rods that I use in tournament.
    
    	3 binox spinning rods med-Heavy 6' with shamno GTX 3200
    	1 Binox spinning med  (use for grubs and light baits)
        1 ultra light (hand made) for ultra lures
    	3 Binox Casting rods med-heavy 6' with ABU XTL+s
    	1 binox flipping stick 7'6" with ABU XTL+
    	1 Ricky Clunn creanking rod 7'6" large crank baits.
    	1 browing 5'6" med action casting for small crankbaits
        1 Team Diawia 6'6" med heavy long handle pitching used for worms 
    
    Thats what in the boat.
    
    	Then there are 3 or 4 trout rods, 6 or 7 fly rods,( some split bambo
    worth $$$), about 10 surf casting rods, 7 or 8 boat rods and reels,
    and off course the box of zebcco 202's and the rods that go with them.  
    I have 3 5 section cane poles for florida fishing and some very old
    wood tuna rods.  ( you are talking heavy action!!)
    
        Then there is a box of all the ones I collected as a teen with a
    part time job!!  Used for spare parts and the kids!
    
    Bassin Bob.  Hope this helps..   
    
    p.s. The last thing to remember in getting a new rod, I saved for last. 
    This is for all the people who read this entire note..  always remeber
    that you spouse needs a few so they don't have an accident with your
    tournament rods.  Make sure you get the same ones you use, so you can
    borrow it when then are not with you!!! :^)
     

    I have really been taken with using the baitcaster and have decided to
    go for another rod and reel.  I have already decided on getting another
    Abu reel, but am undecided about the rod. I have two today with my
    baitcaster one is a 6'6" BPO Tourney Pitching Stick and the other is a
    Shimano Bullwhip 5'6" pistol grip.  After much fishing, I like the
    pistol grip because I can really accurately pitch that lure right where
    I want it. so I am after another pistol grip casting rod.
    
    What do folks think about the following rods
    
    BPO Bionic Blade
    All Star  BCM
    Daiwa Team Graphie
    Berkely Series One or Bionix Plus
    Fenwick I-IM6 or the Lunker stick
    Browning Gold Medallion
    
    Anyone who has one of these rods please let me know what you think of
    it.   By the way I favor med to medium light 5'6".
    
    Brian 

    It depends on what you plan on using it for and how much you want to
    spend.  An All-star will surely be a great rod, but for less money
    you could buy the BPS Bionic Blade AND the ABU reel...
    
    I personally haven't been able to justify the money for All-stars yet,
    but they are real nice rods.  Of the rods you mentioned, the only one
    that I have is the Bionic Blade (6' m/h pistol).  It's a decent rod and
    when discount packaged with the ABU reel, it rates a 'best buy' in my
    book.
    
    donmac

    DonMac
    
    I plan to use this rod for placement fishing.  I need one with good
    control that I can toss the old spinnerbait into a spot I want near the
    weeds with enough backbone to haul the hog out.  I have the 6'6"
    pitchin stick for long casts and real heavy weed fishing.  This one is
    really for accuracy light touch fishing.
    
    Yeah I know about the costs, the All Stars run about $70 and the
    Berklies about $80.  But I don't plan on any more rods after this
    seeing how I have 3 Spinning outfits and 2 baitcasting not counting
    this.  So the last one will have to be a beauty besides I really have
    been finding that the more I spend on the equipment the happier I am
    with its performance.
    
    Brian
    Brian

Brian,
     I recently recieved my third Bionic Blade from BPS.  It is a 6' medium 
action I love them.  I also have a 5'6 medium I have had it for about  3
years.  I am a firm beliver in this rod.  

BTW you can get them for $49 bucks, If you dont have the sale flier just ask
for the sale price they will give it to you.


Good Fishin
Les

    Brian - You know of course that your question is kinda like - which is
    best Ford or Chevy?
    For my $$ Ill go with the Bionic blades. I bought 3 this past winter.
    BUT if I had a choice of ONLY one rod. I think I would lean in the
    direction of an All Star. My next winter purchase maybe one rod, I
    THINK I will go in that direction.
    My 2 cents.

    
    	Since I've graduated from the Zebco combo's....I purchased an ABU
    	Garcia Crossfire.....moderately priced...yet I like the "feel" 
    	when using it and it is very light weight.
    
    	Gitzit'
    
    
    

    Yo Gitzit
    
    I have a crossfire for my spinning outfit not a bad rod for the buck. 
    I tried my brothers Browning Gold Medallion, Wow what a sensitive
    trigger stick.  That think beat the living daylights out of my best
    Shimano Rod.  It was a 7' stick but I could feel my spinnerbait blades
    whiring  and even could detect when they bumped light grass.
    
    Brian

Last night (while fishing with Don Mac, but that's not important) I broke the
reel seat on my Quantum 6'6MH wormin' rod.  I know that Don and others 
recommended the 6'6MH style rod for wormin' and I agree.  They're great.  The
problem is this is the 2nd one that broke at the reel seat.  Zyla's (Fred) was 
happy to replace it.  I wonder how long this one will last (I got my 1st one
in January, 2nd in late May/early June)??  In .0, (Don) you mention the Quantum
Transmitter.  I looked at this rod at Zyla's on Fred's recommendation.  I didn't
have the extra $12 to spend so I just traded for the same rod.  Next time, I'll
buy something better.  I'll have to try your transmitter next time we go out,
Don.  Meanwhile, my current favorite replacement (or at least addition, if I
break it again, I'll get two) is a 6'6MH Bionic Blade.  Which is better? I 
know Don has the transmitter and a 6'0" MH pistol grip... (weren't you using
that for wormin' for a little while?)

tight lines, but not tight reel seats,
TIm

    Tim, I just received some summer sale fliers from BPS and they have
    some sales on rods.Bionic Blades, Daiwa procaster trigger rods $29.95
    normaly at $54.95. This was like a small newpaper flier. If you did'nt
    receive it and are interested let me know and I'll forward you a copy.
    
    Don 282-1169 Wjousm::Bourgault

    Tim, I can't recall if the quantum that your referring to is the
    transmitter or something else.  It may be, but I'm thinking it could
    another model.  I know I have one transmitter, a few XLs, and one
    'other' and I can't say for sure which one my pitching stick is
    (I know its not an XL).
    
    Spinnerbait dilsworth may know, he has at least a couple of them.
    
    Anyway, I had both the BB and the 6'6" quantum in the boat, I was chuckin'
    the big gillraker with the quantum occasionally.  I had the BB out
    of the rod locker but I don't recall using it.  
    
    I don't recall ever paying attention to the weights referenced on any
    rod, although they can probably be used as a guideline.  
    
    You should be able to get in a few casts with it during tomorrow's
    tourny - although I'm guessing I'll be using it most of the day.
    
    donmac

    The rod DonMac is refuring to is the Quantum Quartz Lite.  I had two of
    them 6'6" MH trigger.  I now have one 6'6" and one 6' XHeavy thanks to
    a UA baggage handler. 8-(  
    
    I also had a 6'6" MH spinning Allstar, its now 6' XXH.  I replace the
    Allstar with a BP Tourney Special in 6'6" and like it better than the
    original Allstar.  For the money, I'll buy a BP Tourney Special any
    day.
    
    keith

    Tim, something else you want to consider about buying a rod from BP is 
    the insurnace you get with it. If you break a rod you send it in with
    $7.00 and they determine if it is abuse or defect.(They also
    replace it they feel it is abuse but keep the money. If it is a defect 
    they give you another rod and the $7.00 back. Last year I broke a 
    Boron rod I had gotten in a package deal. They sent back my money and
    a check for $40.00 since that rod was unavailable. Last fall the
    package was being offered again and I called about the rod. They sold
    me the rod for $19.95. So buying a rod from BP make sense. 

    don't this beat all, I start a note to upgrade to a better bassin rod
    and break my BPO Pro Series Pitchin Stick this weekend.  What a waste of 
    a good rod, I am not sure how I broke it.  I caught a snag on a sunken 
    log and gave a pull straight back and snap off came the tip and 3 
    ferrels.  I broke my favorite rod for a 3 dollar spinnerbait.
    
    Dumb, Dumb dumb
    
    Brian

     I've used BB's and own 3 All Stars and both are quality. The BPRO
    guarantee is great - I lost a tip ring on a top line BB and opted to
    have them replace it with a matching tip. Instead i got a different
    tip, so I bitched and they sent me a new rod AND a $5 credit !
     Truthfully, I like the All Stars a little better, but the BB's are
    fine. I'm gonna buy another All Star soon. 
     As far as configuration, Pick the size/length best for you (and I like
    the pistol grip also) and what you'll use it for. IMHO the All Stars
    are a LITTLE bit better for "undersizing" - maybe a bit more tip
    sensitive or something...
    
    --The Skoal Bandit

Please explain this guarantee ($7?) thing to me.  I have a cheap Abu rod that
the reel seat is loose on.

Thx,
Tim

    Tim, how many times do I have to tell ya, you shouldn't use vicegrips
    to tighten your reel seats...  You go through more reel seats than 
    plastic worms!
    

    Tim,
    
      Never saw a reel seat come loose on a SWEET STIK....
    
    Bruce

    Well I ended up getting a 6' Browning Gold Medallion pistol grip.  I
    stopped by the local tackle shop and he was having a sale on them for
    39 from the normal $50.  The owner started talking, I said I like the
    rod but wasn't sure if I should pop for the cash, so he knocked another
    $7 off.  Nice buy, it was cheaper than getting a BB from BPO.
    
    The rod is a real beauty.  I like it as much as my BB.
    
    Brian

Friday I returned the third Quantum XL II 66MH with a cracked reel seat.  I 
replaced it with an Abu Garcia 66MH Crossfire XT ($32 vs. $33 for the XL II).
This rod has a graphite reel seat (compared to the plastic one on the XL II).
It is a bit heavier weight-wise and a bit less stiff action-wise.  I like it
MUCH better than the XL II...

Tim

     I was wrong in note .69 - at that time I had 4 All Stars, but - thanks
    to Hagerty dragging me to Northern Bass, I now have 5. The latest is a
    6' spinning rod rated 1/4 - 5/8 oz., which to me is an indispensible
    size. Fished with it on Sunday with our Pro at the golf course and in 1
    1/2 hrs we literally caught so many bass we stopped counting. All were
    taken on a strange colored worm and a strange spinnerbait, both of
    which will be identified at the weigh in at Manchaug...
    
    The Skoal Bandit