This post really got me thinking. Out on the California Delta 90% of the guys are throwing the same shad pattern rip baits, shad and craw crankbaits, etc. Now you could argue that they are just matching the hatch and those baits produce consistently (and they do), but there are days when I can't buy...

My 3 Chronarch D7's are my favorite reels hands down. I'm happy to have them and wouldn't trade them for anything else.

I catch fish smaller than that...

I picked up some at the Hookedup Tackle and I think Landbigfish had them too. When the spring comes I'll be trying them out.

I like the Lobina Ricos. They're expensive, but seem to be very good quality compared to other poppers I've used.

+1 on the Dobyns 705CB Glass.

Chronarch D7. It's still my favorite for all around performance and quality.

I have a lot of Shimano's, but I also have a Pixy 68 and I just picked up a T3 Ballistic. I have to say I really love the T3 and I'm thinking about having it be my go forward choice in reels especially with the current selection of Shimano reels being almost a downgrade.

I don't like them below the reel. I have a tendency to grab the rods around those areas to carry them and get a hand full of hooks.

I feel the same way about the new chronarchs,but I would'nt buy a plastic reel ( t3) at any price these reels this year are a joke from all sides. I will stick with the d7s . I remember when people said they wouldn't buy a plastic gun either, but now they issue Glocks to a lot of police departments...

The latest Chronarch is why I just added a Daiwa T3 Ballistic to my gear instead of another Chronarch. I'm keeping my D7's, but I won't see another Chronarch until they make a new one that I like. It's a shame. I'm a die hard Shimano fan.

Because of this thread I remember using Slug-gos 20 years ago in Bubble Gum and doing well with them. I ordered a few bags from eBay this week and now I'm looking forward to using them. I've never had much luck with Zoom Flukes for some reason, but I used to kill with the Slug-go.

I wouldn't want to fish with those. I might frame them and hang them on the wall though

I fish for fun, not tournaments and not food and that thing just doesn't seem like much fun.

For baitcasting equipment and heavy line with largemouth I usually use a tight drag. When it's a big striper I lighten up the drag and use it.