Prof T

Todd, I'm a bottom bouncer guy and here's my not very expensive setup: Okuma Classic levelwind on a medium action 6 1/2 - 7 Ugly stick. I like the smaller 200 reel size to save weight and really, how much line do you need to fish down in 25 -50 ft of water? Those reels have a nice size crank also. Main line is 20 lb braid to cut the water easily, with a 5 ft flouro leader to the bouncer. Lures are also pulled behind a rod length of flouro. I'm sold on Seaguar Blue Leader material in 20 lb. Could go lighter if fish are smaller and bottom isn't lined with zebras. I fish a minefield and need the strength and abrasion resistance. Braid can't handle it. This is a no stretch setup, so you've got to let your drags and rods do the work! I absolutely think the Seaguar is worth the cost. Years ago I started paying attention to terminal tackle and found that if you don't need a swivel, DON'T USE ONE. My stickbaits are always pulled behind a good quality duolock snap, lightest wire one you feel safe with. Swivel is on the bottom bouncer end anyway. For kicks, tie two Rapalas on test leads. Put one on a snap swivel and the other on a loop knot so it can work side to side. You'll see what I mean. The duolock is a good compromise. It's the little things.

Nice to see some decent browns on our end. Congrats

I'm down the channel past the bridge and there is no shortage of debris being swept downriver. Pulled a 4 x 8 x 16' timber out this morning, and stacked some cinder blocks on my catwalk in case it wants to become buoyant if the levels rise any more. Advice to anyone on the river....be on the lookout. Many shoals you are used to seeing are submerged and there's no telling what's going to float by.

And all that lake is trying to squeeze its with way down the St Lawrence with a west wind. Lots of soggy docks here too

You guys need to see Kevin's freezer!!!!!!!

x2 on the Maker's! Oh yeah, nice fish too!

Last year about this time a saw two good size guys go over in a 12ft car topper there in about 10ft of water. Some guys working on a island and some other boat fishermen were quick to get to them. Of course, their PFD's floated nicely away from them. It only takes a second!! Get a vest you are comfortable wearing, especially in small boats, and use it.

I should post that one feature I think you should look for is a removable drip tray. There are times when you draw a little ooze out before it seals and it's easier to clean. Happens more with meats than fish, and can be eliminated with a short pre-freeze. Another use is to do a quick marinade. Sucks the juice into the meat, making it more flavorful and tenderizes more effectively. They sell kits with a special container and lid. I don't have one, just use the bag and it works fine.

Off to Sacanaga for family Northern Pike trip and then it's full on for the eyes on the SLR!

GOALS

Thanks x2

I bought a Foodsaver last summer and kick myself for not having done it years ago. My last August walleyes are still in perfect condition. Saved a few bucks by going with generic bag material and see no difference over their product.