I was out in my kayak for a few hours yesterday, and along with catching a bunch of smallmouth and largemouth bass, I was thinking how fast the summer is going. Even though I’m looking forward to some great fall fishing, we all know what comes after that in Wisconsin. Since early May I’ve been on the water quite a few days chasing bass using a number of outstanding reels that match well with my style of fishing, which mostly involves chasing the big water smallies of Door County, WI (Lake Michigan) and my favorite Wisconsin smallie rivers. As I always note, I feel I’ve put enough hours on these reels to feel comfortable sharing my opinions. And, even though I fish the reels quite a few hours, I’m careful and not out to perform any torture tests.

Again this year I’m very impressed with all six reels I’ve had the pleasure to fish, and hope you enjoy my comments and can use the information when considering your next purchase.

Abu Garcia REVO Premier - $279.95

I fish spinning reels more than baitcast reels, but do enjoy baitcasters for spinnerbaits, topwaters and crankbaits. Just like my spinning reels, I look for lightweight reels and at 6.7 ounces the Revo Premier matched wonderfully with the 7’ medium action St. Croix Legend Tournament and Mojo rods that I fished it on. I spooled the REVO with 12# Stren Brute. Its low-profile stance is great for palming and I found it extremely easy to adjust to my casting needs. And, I’ve actually had “no” backlashes, which is appreciated and surprising.

The drag is very smooth through all the settings and I love the compact, bent-handle with the very comfortable EVA knobs. It comes in a high-speed version with a 7.1:1 retrieve/gear ratio, but I found the 6.4:1 ratio just fine for all my applications. Typically, I’m using spinning gear for lighter lures, but wanted to check the REVO out and was very happy with how it handled lures down to ¼ of an ounce, like smaller Booyah spinnerbaits and the newer Excalibur XR25 lipless crankbait.

If you give the REVO Premier a try you “will” not be disappointed. In fact the only disappointment might be in the reels you already own.

Features:

• Lightweight – 6.7 ounces
• 9 Stainless steel HPCR ball bearings
• Corrosion resistant instant anti-reverse bearing
• X-Cratic finish allow frame and side plate for corrosion resistance
• Carbon matrix drag system for ultra smooth drag
• Aircraft grade aluminum spool
• Infini brake design for extended castability and extreme loads
• Compact bent-handle and star
• Flat EVA knobs
• Max drag is 20lb. for non high speed models
• Right and left hand models available
• Line recovery per handle turn – 28”
• Line capacity – 145yds./12# mono, 130 yds./30# braid
• www.abu-garcia.com

Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Signature Series JMX10HD Caster Reel – $249.99, on sale for $159.99

Over the past few years I’ve had a chance to review a number of Bass Pro baitcast reels, including the previous version of the Johnny Morris Signature Series. I loved that version and can say, “I love the new version”. There are so many positives to this reel that I hate to even mention that, for me, I wish it were a little than its 8.6 ounces. But, with the great feel once on the rod, I really didn’t notice it much while fishing. Like the REVO, I used it on the 7’ medium action St. Croix Legend Tournament and Mojo rods and spooled it with 12# Berkley Trilene TransOptic. I like the carbon-fiber recurve handle and the comfort of the ribbed silicon knobs. I also like this style of knob on the Johnny Morris Signature Series spinning reel. The original version of this reel had a chrome look to the finish.

Again, I’m not as adept with baitcast reels as with spinning reels, but find the JMSSJX10 extremely easy to adjust to a variety of baits and weights, casting like a dream. The drag is very smooth through all the settings and the star designed drag adjustment is easy to use, even when fighting a big smallie. The reel I tested has the 6.4:1 retrieve/gear ratio and as noted earlier is just fine for all applications, but it does come in a 7.1:1 ratio, which some might like for certain presentations.

Like its predecessor, I can highly recommend this reel, and getting it on sale for $159 is quite a bargain.

Features:

• Diecast aluminum frame and sideplates
• Black carbon-titanium deposition finish
• Double anodized aluminum spool
• Premium Japanese stainless steel ball bearings
• 100% double-shielded 10-bearing system
• Powerlock instant anti-reverse
• Duralumin drive gear
• Dual braking system
• Beefed-up, super smooth carbon drag system
• 10 bearing system
• Lightweight carbon-fiber recurve handle with ribbed silicon knob
• Padded clutch bar
• Titanium-nitride guide
• Line recovery per handle turn – 28”
• Line capacity – 145yds./12# mono
• Weight – 8.6 ounces
• www.basspro.com

Bass Pro Shops Pro Qualifier Spinning Reel - $69.99, sometimes on sale

I have had the opportunity to review a number of Bass Pro Shops spinning reels over the past ten years, including previous versions of the Pro Qualifier. Back in 2007, when I first reviewed this reel, which was Bass Pros first with the Mag Spool technology, I was intrigued and impressed. Since then, I’ve also tested the Johnny Morris Signature Series Spinning reel with this technology and now the current Pro Qualifier. I continue to be very impressed with the Mag Spool and can tell you that the new version of the Pro Qualifier is noticeably smoother and a more “quality” feel than the original in 2007. I’ve mentioned this in the other reviews on reels with the Mag Spool technology. The larger diameter spool enhances casting distance and offers a smooth and quick retrieve with the 5.6:1 retrieve ration.

I’ve fished the PG10 a good deal over the last three months, matching it with St. Croix 7’ and 7’6” light and medium-light action rods. I spooled the reel with Berkley Tracer Braid 10 pound/3 pound equivalent diameter. If you haven’t tried Tracer Braid, you should. Along with being very easy to work with I love how easy it is to see with the alternating moss and chartreuse colors. In more recent years I’ve had more trouble seeing the moss green braid, but have no problem with the white of Fireline Crystal, Stren Microfuse and Power Pro. Along with the Hi-Vis yellows and now Tracer Braid.

This reel meets my desire for light weight at 7.5 ounces, as well as a compact profile, yet still able to handle plenty of braid/superline, which is my preference. For the price, this is a very nice reel that you’ll love. And, occasionally you’ll find it on sale, which is even better.

Features:

• Ultra-slim body design – 7.5 ounces
• 8-bearing system with Powerlock instant anti-reverse
• Anodized aluminum body and side cover
• Machined aluminum handle and forged aluminum spool
• Stainless steel bail wire
• Titanium nitride-coated line roller
• Mag spool technology
• Advanced carbon fiber drag system
• Free spare aluminum spool
• 5.6:1 gear ratio
• Line recovery per handle return – 31”
• Line capacity – 90yds/6# mono
• www.basspro.com

Daiwa Exceler 2000 – TSH - $109.99, lower on-line pricing

I’ve had a chance to review quite a few Daiwa spinning reels from the $59 price point, all the way up to the $250+ Fuego. I have been impressed with all of them, but have made one consistent comment in each review and that is I do prefer a faster retrieve ratio. All the others reviewed Daiwa reels were 4.7:1, which some do like. Me, I like the faster retrieve so that when my lure is out of the strike zone, I can get it in fast for another cast. Well, I love the 6.2:1 ratio of the Exceler TSH 2000, and interestingly, I see that a number of Daiwa’s new reels, which were just introduced, also have the faster retrieve ratio.

This reel has performed outstanding spooled with 18 pound/3 pound equivalent diameter Daiwa Samurai braided line matched with St. Croix medium light 7’ and 7’6” Legend Elite and Xtreme rods. Daiwa Samurai isn’t an inexpensive braid, but you won’t find a smoother one out there. The Exceler is not a big reel and weighs at the higher end of what I prefer at 8.6 ounces. For chasing smallies I find the 2000 series in the Daiwa reels perfect holding 135 yards of 6 pound mono, which as with the other spinning reels in the review allows for plenty of smaller diameter braid/superline with the mono backing.

As with all the Daiwa spinning reels, the drag is very smooth throughout the settings. The handle is comfortable and I especially love having the “large” anti-reverse lever on the back of the reel. This reel does not have the tubular bail, but it is made of a larger diameter wire and nice and compact, which I like with the Daiwa reels.

The Exceler 2000 TSH is a quality reel at a nice price. And now with the 6.2:1 gear ratio gives those of us who like a faster retrieve another great option to consider.

Features:

• Fast, 6.2:1 retrieve ratio
• Digigear
• 4 CRBB ball bearings
• Twist buster
• Washable, waterproof drag with click adjustment
• Advanced locomotive levelwind
• Includes alternate-size spare aluminum spool for a wider choice of lines
• Line recovery per handle turn – 32.6”
• Line capacity – 135yds./6#
• Weight – 8.6 ounces
• www.daiwa.com

Pflueger Patriarch 9530 Spinning Reel - $199.95

Here’s a new “wow” reel from Pflueger that has performed wonderfully. I have loved the Pflueger Supreme XT in a past review and again in my review this year, so I had a great feeling getting ready to fish the Patriarch. I wasn’t disappointed. I spooled this reel with a favorite, Stren Microfuse 8 pound/3 pound equivalent diameter line and fished it on a St. Croix medium action 7’ Legend Xtreme and 7’6” Legend Tournament.

I prefer reels that are lightweight and at 6.3 ounces the Patriarch 9530 is a dream to fish, and even better when matched with a 3.4 to 3.9 ounce St. Croix rod. The line capacity of 120 yards of 6 pound mono lends itself perfectly for those of us who like using the smaller diameter braid/superline with a mono backing. I don’t like large profile reels and the Patriarch is an excellent size to compliment my style of fishing. The spool is larger than most of the competitor’s reels that weigh less than 7 ounces, which adds to casting distance. The drag is super smooth through the settings and the reel has the thread on handle that I prefer, along with a very comfortable EVA knob.

The Patriarch has a 5.2: 1 retrieve/gear ratio, which is slower than I prefer, but didn’t notice it being too slow, and many anglers like this ratio. I’ve always liked light, smaller profile tubular bail wires, which this reel has. As noted earlier, this “is” a wow reel, and at $199.95 is not inexpensive, but seems to be a bargain in the higher end reel market. The list of features I’ve mentioned and those below are truly impressive. I’ve been fishing the Patriarch all summer, and you can bet it’s going to get a lot more time on the water the rest of this year and for seasons to come.

Features:

• Ultra lightweight magnesium body, rotor, and sideplate – 6.3 ounces
• Lightweight double anodized aluminum spool with carbon arbor
• 9 Stainless steel ball bearings
• XCR bearings in key locations
• Instant anti-reverse bearing
• Solid aluminum bail wire
• Sure-click bail provides an audible signal when bail is fully opened and ready to cast
• Anti-twist titanium coated line roller
• Lightweight carbon handle
• Durable EVA knob
• Solid titanium main shaft
• Sealed carbon drag system
• Convertible left and right hand retrieves
• Spring loaded line clip
• Neoprene protective bag
• Aluminum spare spool
• On/Off anti-reverse
• 5.2:1 gear ratio
• Line recovery per handle turn – 27”
• Line capacity – 120yds/6#
• www.pflueger.com

Pflueger Supreme XT 9230 Spinning Reel - $149.95

A few years ago I reviewed the previous version of the Pflueger Supreme XT and was very impressed. In fact, I’m still using that reel, as well as the smaller 9225 model. After fishing the “new” version the past few months, I found it very similar to the previous version, so it seems most of the changes are simply cosmetic. And, even though I like the bright gold finish, the new finish looks better and will appeal to more anglers. Also, having put many hours on the original Supreme XT, I can say with some confidence, you should expect great service for years.

The “new” version of the Supreme XT is not an inexpensive reel at $149.95, but in my opinion a great price for a top quality reel. It is basically the same size as the Patriarch 30 series, but holds a little more line at 145 yards of 6 pound diameter line. As with the original, I really like the 6.2:1 retrieve/gear ratio and is very light at 7.2 ounces. I’ve been fished this reel on a St. Croix Legend Elite 7’6” medium-light action rod and spooled it with Berkley Tracer Braid in 10 pound/3 pound diameter. Like the Patriarch this reel has a somewhat smaller profile, but large enough spool to facilitate long casts. It also has the tubular bail and thread-on handle with comfortable EVA knob. This may be picky, but the way the knob is attached to the handle is better than the previous Supreme XT, which sometimes would catch your forefinger between the knob and the handle shaft, which was annoying. The drag, as you would expect is very smooth throughout the spectrum.

I’m still fishing the original Supreme XT and expect to do the same with the new version for the rest of this season and beyond. I can highly recommend this reel!

Features:

• Lightweight durable magnesium body & rotor – 7.2 ounces
• 9 stainless steel ball bearings
• Corrosion resistant bearings in key locations
• One-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing
• Smooth sealed carbon fiber drag system
• Double anodized machined aluminum spool with holes
• Aluminum side plate
• Sure-click bail provides an audible signal when bail is fully opened and ready to cast
• Large solid aluminum bail wire
• Anti-twist titanium coated line roller
• Lightweight carbon handle
• Durable EVA knob
• Spare aluminum spool
• Convertible right or left hand retrieve
• On/Off anti-reverse
• Neoprene reel bag
• 6.2:1 gear ratio
• Line recovery per handle return – 30”
• Line capacity – 145yds/6#
• www.pflueger.com

During the past 14 plus years, I’ve had the good fortune and pleasure of spending 150 days chasing smallies in Door County.  This is the “thumb” on the map of Wisconsin that juts out into Lake Michigan.  My efforts have been rewarded with having caught and released over 4,000 smallies.

Like many of you who have fished for Great Lake’s smallies, or fished for lake smallies in general, I have tried a plethora of lures.  I’ve always tried, however, to keep it simple and not over do it.  I think I’ve done a good job of narrowing my presentations to those that work best, based on research, talking with others and through my own experience.  One presentation that usually is near the top of most Door County lists, and now at the top of mine, is swimming a grub on a jig.

For most of my years fishing Door County, swimming a grub on jig is a presentation I’ve used on a somewhat regular basis.  It is one of the easiest of all presentations.  You cast it, let it settle for a second or two and then retrieve it slowly.  I use St. Croix 7’ and 7’6” medium-light and medium action rods.  With the ultra-clear water, long casts are important.  That’s why I use the longer rods, and for the past two years the Legend Elite 7’6” medium-light has been my favorite.  I’m using reels suitable for 4- and 6-pound diameter line. Some examples of what I’m using are Shimano 1000 series reels, Daiwa 2000 reels, Pflueger 30 size and Bass Pro 10 size.

In recent years I’ve been using Berkley Fireline and Stren Microfuse in 3-pound diameter and 8-pound test (8/3), as well as Power Pro in the 2-pound diameter and 10-pound test (10/2).  I like the strength and sensitivity and usually add a mono backing so I don’t have to spool as much braid or superline.  In the ultra-clear waters of Door County, I utilize a fluorocarbon leader, which is also strong and sensitive, but can’t be seen in the water.  I began utilizing the 8 or 10-pound test fluorocarbon leader when friend and longtime Door County guide and owner of Howie’s Tackle, Tim Dwidiuk, explained how his numbers have always been better with the fluorocarbon leader, which I attach to the braid or superline with a uni to uni knot.  Based on my experience my numbers since going to the fluorocarbon leader in 2008, I agree.

Has a swimming a grub always been my “go to” presentation in Door County or on most other lakes I fish for smallies?  No, it was one of a variety of presentations I’d use.  But, now it’s my “go to” presentation, and over the past three plus seasons has truly produced some impressive results.  For years, I used a variety of grubs I received directly from a few companies, which were mostly 3-inch versions.  Most of these had a smaller profile body and fairly narrow tail.  Again, listening to Tim Dawidiuk and a few others, I began using the Kalin’s Lunker Grub in June of 2007.  I wish I wouldn’t have waited so long.  I’ve had very good success with both the 4-inch and 5-inch versions in a variety of colors, including Ed’s Smoke, Clear Smoke, Smoke Salt & Pepper, Avocado, and Blue Pearl Salt & Pepper (better in semi-clear waters).    Some other colors to consider are Pumpkin Salt & Pepper, Pumpkin Salt & Pepper/Green Flake, Green Pumpkinseed/Purple Flake and new colors for 2011, Dirty Avocado and Apple Juice.  The smoke colors work great and with the Smallies eating the gobies, which are like little “protein” bars, the colors that are similar to that of gobies.  In Door County, since the gobie invasion, the weight of the fish is phenomenal.  Years ago, a 19 inch fish would almost never break 4 pounds, but now it is not unusual for a 19 inch fish to go well over 5 pounds.  I’ve never fished a lake where I’ve caught 16+ inch fish that make 4 pounds.

I feel the key to the grubs I’ve mentioned is the full-body profile and long/tall wispy tail.  You will hear that you should swim these with the tail pointing opposite from the hook point.  Actually, this is the way the Kalin’s were designed.  I rig them tail opposite the hook point.  When the grub gets a little beat-up, I bite off a quarter inch and reverse the tail direction.  I have not noticed much, if any difference.  The smallies still seem to like it.  It’s very important to line the hook shank up with the seam so that the grub swims straight.

The jig is a very important part of this presentation and the standard “bargain bin” jig usually won’t do.  You need to use jigs in the 1/16, 3/32 and 1/8 ounce weights with a longer hook shank, which allows you to bring the hook through the grub body and out near the end of the body portion.  In the past I was using a good ball head jig, but after reading about the Mushroom Head jigs from Gopher Tackle in In-Fisherman magazine and having some sent to me by a friend from Illinois who has attended my seminars, I thought I’d better give these a try.  Now that I’ve had many days on the water with great success, I know I’ve found a super jig for swimming plastic grubs.  Gopher’s Big John’s offers an eyelet that is not only flush with the jig head, but also crossways and at an angle.  I’m mostly using the 3/32 ounce jigs.  With most of the Gopher jigs having the long shaft, a number of styles with the 2/0 or 3/0 hook will work great.  Another jig that has worked well for me is the Bait Rigs Slo-Poke GrubMaster Jig in the 1/16 and 1/8 sizes.  These were designed with the Kalin’s Grub in mind and also have the eyelet crossways and straight out the front of the jig.  Unlike a traditional jig, the weight is distributed along the hook shank.

As I noted earlier, retrieve the grub slowly in all water temperatures.  Swim it just above the bottom.  If you touch rocks, speed up your retrieve.  The smallies seem to hang close to the bottom in the two to eight feet of water that I’m usually fishing in May and June.  As noted earlier, this tendency may also be enhanced as gobies have become a major food source for the Door County smallies.  They don’t have a swim bladder and live on or near the bottom.

With the success I’ve had in Door County, I have switched to swimming the Kalin’s Lunker Grub on most of the other lakes I fish in my Crestliner 1750 Fish Hawk or in one of my Wilderness Systems kayaks.  Since the fall of 2007 swimming the Kalin’s grub has joined the Rebel Teeny Wee Crawfish as my top river smallie presentation.  Even though I’ve noted colors that work great for me, I would suggest that you experiment.

If you are planning on fishing smallies on one of the Great Lakes, another of your favorite lakes or rivers, I would encourage you to give swimming a grub on a jig a try.  I think you’ll be happy you did.

“Peter S.” is wondering what is everybody’s favorite smallmouth bass fishing book .

“Dry1″ caught a very nice 20 3/4″ smallie while wearing a rainbow glove congrats.

“Dave T” was looking for recommendation on a good spinning rod for jerk baits .

“ff4145″ started a conversation about fluorocarbon line .

” Sean B” asked in the Conservation forum who would be attending the PA Fish & Boat Commission meeting regarding the new Susquehanna River catch and release rules which brought on an interesting discussion.

His equipment:

71/2-8 ft. heavy action casting rod

20 lb. mono line (or braided line in grass)

David is usually targeting largemouth bass using this technique but this can be equally effective for smallmouths. You may want to downsize your tackle slightly.

David Walker is a Pro Angler for the Evinrude E-Team

The cause is still under investigation by state and federal agency biologists. The cause(s) are not known yet but could be attributed to high spring discharges, excessive warm water, low dissolved oxygen levels in smallmouth bass nursery areas, disease or possibly pollution.

“Following years of declining numbers of smallmouth bass in the Juniata and lower Susquehanna rivers, the Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) today moved to protect the fisheries by placing catch and release regulations on sections of the two waterways which are currently regulated under the Big Bass Program.”

“The regulations will apply to approximately 32 miles of the Juniata River, from the State Route 75 Bridge at Port Royal in Juniata County downstream to the mouth of the river at Duncannon, Perry County. On the Susquehanna, the regulations cover 98 miles, from the inflatable dam near Sunbury in Northumberland County downstream to the Holtwood Dam in York County. The regulations also will apply to tournaments, which will be prohibited during the bass spawning period in the spring. During the remainder of the year, only catch-measure-immediate release tournaments will be permitted.”

“Reduced densities of smallmouth bass are likely to continue until reproduction and recruitment success improves,” said Mr. Arway. “In order to preserve good quality fishing and to protect the current population, we determined that it is necessary to place catch and release restrictions on those portions of the rivers.”

Full Story: http://www.fish.state.pa.us/newsreleases/2010press/bass_cr.htm

Smallmouths.com forum discussion: http://www.smallmouths.com/smallmouth-forum/showthread.php?t=1364

Fall is time when smallmouth are feeding veraciously preparing for the long lean winter. It’s also a time of rapidly changing weather that effects smallmouth location and feeding behavior. This means anglers will need to be ready to fish a lot of different types of water and depths. Here’s a quick run down of baits that will enable you to fish in a variety of depths and water conditions. During the fall, it is particularly important for river smallmouth anglers to have the ability to cover the top,middle, and bottom of the water column.

#1 Soft Jerkbaits (middle of the water column)
Soft jerkbaits are extremely versatile and therefore are one of my favorite fall baits. You can use soft jerkbaits to catch smallmouth that are chasing and attacking baitfish aggressively by skittering it across the top of the water or using fast jerks with a low rod tip. When smallmouth are in a more neutral feeding mood, the bait can be deadsticked with excellent results. Bottom line, this bait can be fished extremely fast, at medium speeds, at variable speeds or with no movement at all. That’s why it gets the number one spot!

Some common soft jerkbaits are the Slug-go, Zoom Flukes, and my favorite Winco’s Darter series of soft jerkbaits. The weight of the Darter series baits makes them easy to cast. Long casts are critical in the clear waters that typically comes with fall fishing.

#2 Tube Baits (bottom of the water column)
Sometimes fall smallmouth will move into deep ledge trenches and go into a more neutral feeding mood. When this happens anglers need a presentation that can get down deeper and be fished very slow. Enter the tube baits. There are a variety of rigs you can use but I usually keep it simple and rig mine on a 1/8 oz. internal tube jig head. The bait can be crawled along the bottom mimicking a crayfish. No self respecting smallmouth will pass up this presentation!

Many soft bait companies make tube baits. Companies like Venom, Strike King, Yum, and Winco’s Custom Lures offer some great tubes. Winco’s new Tasty Tube Jr. is worth a look. It has thinner profile than most tubes on the market and is great when a more finesse style presentation is needed.

#3 Walk-The-Dog Baits (top of the water column)
I was never a big fan of walk-the-dog lures for smallmouth until four years ago when I started using what I call “hybrid” walk-the-dog lures. This is really my terminology but it refers to baits that have a slightly concave face similar to a popper. The concave design makes a subtle splash during the w-t-d presentation that drives smallmouth crazy.

Remember to try varying retrieves when using these baits. Sometimes a constant w-t-d presentation is the ticket. Other times a few walks and letting the bait sit will draw vicious strikes. Very few companies make ‘hybrid” walk-the-dog baits. Two of my favorites are Storm’s Chug Bug and Winco’s Wink’s Walker.

Of course, I take a few more baits along with me when I fish. I jokingly call my kayak the “floating tackle shop”. One thing is for sure, I always make certain these three baits are tied on or within quick reaching distance when I hit the river in fall!

Each year, fishing with, and reviewing a variety of reels I continue to be so impressed and feel there has never been a better time to find great reels priced well under $100.

Abu Garcia Soron SX10 - $99.95

Last year I included the Abu Garcia Soron STX10 in my review article and this year wanted to give the Soron SX10 a shot. A few years ago when I tested the predecessors of both, the Abu Garcia 801 and then the 701, I stated in an article, “I can’t tell any difference between the two reels”. Well, I’m going to have to make that statement again as it relates to my test of the STX10 and now the SX 10. I actually fished them side-by-side a couple of times this year and the only difference I could tell is the less expensive SX10 has 7 HPCR (High Performance Corrosion Resistant) stainless steel bearings compared with 11 for the STX10, which over the years could make a difference.

Because of the ultra-clear water of Green Bay and the need for long casts, I fished the SX10 on a St. Croix 7’6” medium-light Legend Tournament, as well as on the “interesting” and impressive 8’ medium light Legend Tournament with the telescoping handle. Using the “new”, as of last year, Super Line Spool System, I spooled the reel with Spiderwire Hi-Vis Yellow in 14-pound test/3- pound diameter line. With the Fast Tie Design, two elastimetric rings are built into the spool to keep superline/braid from spinning on the spool. This eliminates the need for any type of taping or tying. Last year with the STX10, I tested and liked it, but prefer using a mono backing so I don’t have to put as much superline/braid on the reel. For this reason I would not use this feature. The spare spool is very nice compared to many “spare” spools. It doesn’t have the Fast Tie Design and is noted to have been designed for fluorocarbon. I used it for superline/braid and either spool will also work fine for mono or copolymer lines.
No matter if I’m fishing clearer water on Lake Michigan or one of my many rivers; I primarily use superline/braid in the 2 to 3-pound equivalent diameter and am making many casts. For this reason I want a reel that is lightweight, has a small profile and rated for at least 110 yards of 6-pound diameter line. The SX10, like the STX10, meets all three criteria and is nice and light at 7.8 ounces. Like the STX10, the SX10 is an eye-catcher. I like the feel of the smaller, tubular bails, which the SX10 has. The Carbon Matrix Drag system is very smooth across the drag settings. The handle is the thread-on style, which I much prefer.
You guys who are tough on reels will like the X-Cratic frame which is very durable and has a great feel. The 5:1.1 retrieve ratio is fine, but a little slower than I prefer. Coming in at under $100 this reel is a winner and one that you should definitely consider.

Features:
SuperLine with Fast Tie Spool Design
Carbon Matrix Drag
7 HPCR bearings
X-Cratic frame
Duragear brass gears
5:1.1 gear ration
7.8 ounces
Line recovery per handle turn – 24”
Line Capacity – 110yds/6#

“New” Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Signature Series JM10 - $99.99

Over the years I’ve fished with and reviewed a number of Bass Pro Shops reels. Two years ago I had the pleasure of using the then “new” Johnny Morris Signature Series JM10, which I still have and use. When I saw this reel was being tweaked, I wanted to give it a shot and compare it to the original.

Two key features that I have appreciated and haven’t changed with the new version are the Mag Spool Technology, which makes for nice long casts, and the weight, which is still light at just 7.5 ounces. I’ve fished this reel on the longer St. Croix medium-light rods, but also on the Legend Xtreme medium action. I have it spooled with Power Pro 10/3 Hi-Vis yellow. I like the visibility of the Hi-Vis Yellow as well as the new “white” Power Pro that I’ve just begun using.

I’ve listed the features below, but let me tell you about the changes. On the surface you’ll note the die-cast aluminum body is now a matte gray instead of the chrome finish. I do like the new finish better. Also, the body is now sealed, which will add to the life of the reel by keeping contaminants out and letting the lube retain its viscosity, reducing wear on internal components. This is a nice upgrade, especially for those of you who fish in the rain or wade and dunk your reels. The reel now comes with a sealed carbon matrix drag. Carbon is unmatched for dissipating drag heat and the 6-washer system is sealed tight for the ultimate smoothness at all times. I can tell you that the drag is very smooth throughout the drag settings.

The original JM10 from 2008 is still performing great for me and I have to believe the improvements will only add to the value and durability of the “new” JM10. This size has a nice quick 5.6:1 gear ratio, which I like. But, for those of you who like the bigger versions with more line-capacity, you can get the JM20 and JM 40 with a fast 6.1:1 ratio, which many will like compared to the 5.1:1, which is also available on those sizes. As I did two years ago, I feel comfortable recommending this great reel, which is still under $100. One of my “smallie enthusiast” friends purchased the JM10 in 2008 and continues to use and love it. And, he’s not nearly as careful as I am.

Features:

Compact die-cast aluminum chassis
11 ball bearing system. Shielded stainless steel ball bearings
Stainless steel mainshaft, hardened brass pinion gear and zinc alloy drive gear
“New” – Sealed aluminum body construction
“New” – Sealed carbon matrix drag
Titanium line roller
PowerLock instant anti-reverse
Forged aluminum spool, with spare aluminum spool for braided line
Forged aluminum handle with comfort-touch grip
5.6:1 Gear ration
Line recovery per handle turn – 31”
Pound test/yards rating – 6/90 (JM1000)

“New” Pflueger Arbor 7430 - $79.99

I always get a little more excited when using a reel that is a new design, which the Pflueger Arbor is. As with the other reels, I matched this with the longer St. Croix medium-light rods as well as the 7’ medium Legend Xtreme. It is spooled with Spiderwire 14/3 in Hi-Vis yellow, which is another line I’ve been very impressed and happy with.

Over the past few years I’ve also used, liked and written about the Pflueger Supreme XT, Supreme, President XT and President spinning reels. I have had nothing but excellent performance with the other Pflueger reels and so far am having a great experience with the Arbor. It weighs in at 8.5 ounces, but feels lighter. Also, as noted in past reviews, I’m a fan of faster gear ratios and was concerned with the 4.3:1 with the Arbor, but honestly, I didn’t really notice it being that slow and retrieving 25” of line per handle turn is similar to some reels with faster retrieve ratios.

The arbor design is primarily to improve how the line comes off the spool and to add distance. I had “no” problems with how the line came off the spool or wind knots, and the distance was outstanding. The large arbor spool design reduces line memory and twist which allows line to flow freely off the spool. When you fish in ultra-clear water for smallies distance on casts “is” very important. This reel on a 7’6” medium-light rod did the trick. At $79.99 you’re going to have a hard time not falling for this “new” Pflueger.
Features:
7 stainless steel ball bearings
One-way clutch instant anti-reverse bearing
Lightweight hybrid aluminum construction provides strength of an aluminum body without the weight
Double anodized aluminum spool
Lightweight graphite rotor
Smooth sealed carbon fiber drag system
Braid ready spool
Large arbor spool design for maximum line control
Sure-Click bail
Solid aluminum bail wire
Spare aluminum spool
Line recovery per handle turn rating – 25”
Pound test yards rating – 6/120

Shimano Sahara 1000 - $79.99

It is no secret that I “love” the newer designed 1000 series Shimano reels. They match perfectly with the longer St. Croix medium-light rods I use on the big water for Great Lakes smallies and also the 6’6” and 7’ light action Legend Elite rods I add to the arsenal when chasing small-river smallies and throwing the Rebel Teeny Wee Crawfish, along with the Kalin’s Lunker Grub. Since being redesigned, I’ve spent many hours with the Stradic, Saros and Symetre. My “reel” excitement for this article was going to be getting my hands on the new Stradic Ci4, but that didn’t happen until a few weeks ago. Having heard “so” many positive comments on the Sahara over the years, I thought I’d give the new Sahara a try. I will be doing a separate review on the Ci4, which I’ve been fishing for a few weeks. My sneak peak, two word comment - “reelly” something.

Now, back to the Sahara, an outstanding reel at a very competitive price at $79.99. I had only used the Sahara briefly prior to the re-design and liked it, but gravitated back to the Symetre or Stradic. So far this year I’ve fished this reel as much as any of the reels in this review and found it to perform flawlessly and actually found it tough to tell any difference between it and the three more expensive reels above it from Shimano. It is “so” smooth, the drag is great and it has all the “bells and whistles” I’ve come to expect from Shimano at a great price. The weight is super at 6.9 ounces and has the quick reel retrieve I prefer at 5.6:1. With the long St. Croix medium-light rods I get long casts with the Power Pro Hi-Vis Yellow 10/2 line I have it spooled with. And, even though I don’t intentionally dunk reels, this one took a couple and no problem.

Over the years when the discussion comes up on web sites about reels, there are always a large number of comments about how good the Sahara’s is and for a nice price. Well, I think I can now agree with all those comments and will say you won’t be disappointed with this high-quality reel.
Features:
Propulsion Line Management System: Propulsion Spool Lip, Power Roller III, Redesigned Bail Trip, Graphite Rotor, S-Arm Cam
Slow oscillation
S A-RB bearings (Shielded A-RB)
Aluminum frame (GR on 500 and 1000)
Lightweight graphite sideplate & rotor
Cold forged aluminum spool
S Concept: S-Rotor, S-Guard, S-Am Cam
Machined aluminum handle
Rubber handle grips
Maintenance port
Fluidrive II
Floating shaft
Dyna-Balance
Super Stopper II
Repairable Clicker
Approved for use in Saltwater
Line recovery per handle turn - 28”
Pound test/yards rating – 6/110

“New” Bass Pro Shops Carbonlite Baitcast Reel - $119.99

From 2008 to 2009, Bass Pro Shops, did a major redesign of the popular ProLite Finesse Baitcast Reel. I included this in my review article on this site last year and truly liked the upgrades and redesign. They did a great job. Well, I was surprised to see that for 2010 the ProLite was renamed Carbonlite, with a few more changes. Having enjoyed the redesigned ProLite, I was anxious to give the Carbonlite a try and see what the differences were and if they were noticeable.

Bottom-line, I like the Carbonlite better, but not because it fishes much differently. Bass Pro does a great job with their reels and I have to assume they tweaked this reel for a reason. Not that looking better catches more fish, but in my opinion the Carbonlite does look better. The weight is still very light at 6.7 ounces with the gear ration jumping from 6.3:1 to 6.4:1. A major difference, which will be appreciated, is increasing the line capacity from 100 yards of 10# to 125 yards of 12#. I had it spooled with 10# Silver Thread Excalibur line and used it on both the St. Croix 7’ Mojo and Legend Tournament medium action rods. Also, the line take-up per handle rotation has jumped from 24” to 29”.

I think you’ll like the changes from the ProLite to Carbonlite and find this reel a pleasure to fish. It sure handled the big smallies I catch on Green Bay.
Features:
Super light (carbon fiber) recurve handle and Drag Star with super comfortable EVA handle grips
Super hard/super light Duraluminum aircraft-grade gears and spool
Acclaimed DBS Dual Braking System with advanced heat and corrosion resistant Rulon drag
One-piece aluminum frame
Titanium nitride-coated line guide
7 bearing system
Lube port
Powerlock instant anti-reverse
6.7 ounces
6.4:1 gear ratio
Line recovery per handle turn – 29”
Line capacity – 120 yards/12#

Daiwa Aggrest “high-speed” Baitcast Reel - $179.99

Daiwa has never disappointed with the reels I’ve used and review. The Aggrest 7.3 Hyper Speed is another winner. Just as with my spinning reels, I enjoy faster retrieves with my baitcast reels. I’ve always felt that I can slow down my retrieve, but once out of the strike zone, I like to get the lure back in and out as fast as possible. At a retrieve ration of 7.3:1 that’s not going to happen much faster and this reel brings line back at 32” per handle turn.

I mostly fished the Aggrest on a 7’ St. Croix Legend Tournament medium action. I spooled it with Daiwa Samauri 55 pound test/10 pound diameter and went to work. I caught a number of big smallies on this outfit and the reel had plenty of muscle to get the fish in quickly. At 7.6 ounces and line capacity of 120 yards of 12#, I found it to be perfect for what I was using it for, which was lipless crankbaits, spinnerbaits and a few soft-plastics thrown in.

The reel was easy to set-up for my varying casting needs, with a drag that’s very smooth. I would think this high-quality reel would be a good investment for many years at $179.99.

Features:
Hyper speed 7.3:1 gear ration
7.6 ounces
Six ball bearing system, including two CRBB anti-corrosion bearings
Ultra-tough, helical cut phosphor bronze pinion and Dura Aluminum drive gear
Magforce-Z anti-backlash system
High performance drag with precision click adjustments
Rigid aluminum frame
Swept handle for less wobble, better feel and greater winding leverage

By
Bill Schultz

Whether you like to fish with spinning reels or baitcast reels, these are six very nice reels to consider. If you have any questions that I did not answer, please email me at smalliecentral@gmail.com.

This time of year I get a lot of questions from fisherman about approaches to fishing river grass. Folks tend to get very frustrated after a day of pulling up salad! Honestly fishing in the river grass is one of my favorite summer time target areas.

Tip#1 Understand the grass you are fishing and its characteristics

First, I want to define what I mean by “river grass”. In my neck of the woods , central Pennsylvania, eel grass is the dominate river plant. Eel grass can choke a river leaving only very narrow channels. In the clear summer river, it can grow in some fairly deep water. Sometimes 6-8 feet.

Understanding the physical characteristics of eel grass will help us better know how to fish it effectively. Eel grass grows long and slender (like grass) and has a very distinct twisting of the individual “blades”. Eel grass can  get to be several feet long and typically grows in clumps. Because of the river current the grass very rarely creates a canopy on the waters surface. Most often the clumps will lay over forming bundles of grass that gently wave in the current.

Fish love to hide under laid down bundles of eel grass to seek shade during the heat of the day or to have a safe haven from predators. There will also be an abundance of crayfish and minnows seeking refuge in the eel grass. Smallmouth will never be far from the food source.

OK..now we understand a little about “river grass” and why we would want to fish it, so lets find out HOW it can be fished.

Tip #2 Use unweighted or lightly weighted baits

Unlike other grass situation, you’re not going to be “punching through the eel grass because it typically does not form a canopy on top of the water when current is present. You”ll typically be fishing around and possibly on top of the grass. Some of my favorite baits are unweighted nose hooked stickworms, Small 4″ or 5″  finesse worms rigged on a 1/16 oz football or jig head. Worms rigged on jig heads are great for ripp’n off the grass and drifting baits through open lanes in the grass.

Tip#3 Fish moving and casting upstream

Fishing upstream can work to your advantage in two ways. First, fish will be oriented facing upstream so your approach will be more stealthy. A stealthy approach is particularly important when you want to target trophy smallmouth bass. Second, you’ll be working your bait back downstream with the flow of the grass. This will reduce hang ups and weed covered lures significantly.

Tip#4 Find pot holes and find fish

What’s a pot hole? It’s any drop in depth associated with reduced or no weed growth. Sometimes the pot holes are only 2 or 3 square feet. Other times they can be larger. Pot holes typically indicate hard bottom which is often preferred by smallmouth holding in weedy areas.

Tip#5 Fish the lanes

Another major structural feature of areas with significant eel grass growth are “lanes”. Basically they are the open areas between the eel grass. The lanes are used like roads by baitfish that make their homes in the river grass. Smallmouth will often lay in wait under the laid down bundles of eel grass and ambush groups of baitfish that swim by.

When it comes to lures, the number one topic of discussion is almost always centered around color selection. How many times has another angler asked you, “What color are you using?”. This question often becomes more complicated when you are talking about river fishing for smallmouth bass.

The river environment is very dynamic and water conditions can change in a matter of a few hours.  Based on much of the research I’ve reviewed, smallmouth tend to be sight feeders. As a result, color selection is high on my priority list.  Factors like scent, profile, and action are certainly part of the tube equation but in the spirit of keeping it simple, I”m going to focus on color. Here’s a quick and easy breakdown that can help you narrow your color choices quickly.

In the rivers I fish smallmouth have two primary food sources, crayfish and various minnow species. The most coveted is the crayfish. Of course a tube bait is a great crayfish imitation. Water clarity is my litmus test for choosing a tube color.

In clear water conditions, I’m looking to “match the hatch” and use more natural colors. Smallmouth in clear water seem to shy away from unnatural colors. There are exceptions to every rule but I find this statement to be accurate far more often then not.

If  I’ve decided to throw a tube in clear water, I’ll select colors that match the color of the crayfish in the body of water I’m fishing. When I’m fishing familiar waters, I typically know the color of the crayfish. If I’m fishing unfamiliar waters, I’ll turn rocks and observe a few crayfish then look at my tube selection to find the closest color match. Colors like pumking, carolina pumpkin, and various shades of green or brown work well in clear water. Laminated two color baits can also be great choices because often the bottom of a crayfish is lighter than the top.

Once the water crosses the line to stained or muddy, I start looking for colors that will provide contrast. Again, I’m trying to appeal to the smallmouths sense of sight. In muddy water, I may also go to a tube with a slightly bigger profile. The goal is to make the bait stand out in stained water. Great contrasting colors are dark greens, black, and dark browns. If the water is dark, but the sun is shining I may choose a bait with red, gold, or silver metal flake…sometimes all three!

This quick and easy guide will get you on your way to success with tubes in various water condition. The key is to be aware of changes in water clarity. I’ve been around fishing long enough to know that there are very few “hard and fast” rules and I know that conditions can change rapidly. As fisherman, we need to be aware of those changes and make the right choices. Color is just one of them!

Oh yes, the good old days of grabbing a spinning rod, a pack of sinkers, and hooks to hit the cool clear waters of your local smallie creek. If you want to get back to your roots and simplify your life…at least “temporally” here’s a simple formula for getting there.

Foot wear

An old pair of sneakers can do just fine but often creek rocks are slick so you may need to look at other options. Many companies now make “river shoes” or “water sandals” that have lug bottoms and can do relatively well in gravel and small rock environments. If you will encounter very slippery bottom then you probably want to upgrade to a wading shoe or hip boots that have a felt bottom. Felt bottoms provide incredible traction on slick creeks. Add a wading staff and you are in business!

Rods and Reels

Chasing creek smallmouth bass often require down sizing baits so a medium power 6 - 6.5 foot rod is the ticket. Match that with a spinning or spin cast reel that can handle 6-8 pound test and you are ready to hit the water. I prefer spinning gear for creek smallies because that is usually the best tool for handling smaller baits.

Bait selection

Everyone has their favorite baits and you should always pack your favorites. Creek fishing though often requires finesse tactics. In particular, when the water is low, clear, and warm. Fish tend to get very wary under these conditions and a little lethargic. Smaller baits will increase you chances of success. Here are a few of my favorites.

1. 4 inch Berkley Power Worms rigged on a 1/8 or 1/16 oz jig head
2. 3″ Baby Stickworms and 4.25 ” Stickworm Jr.’s
3. Winco’s Creek Wacky Worm
4. Rebel Wee Craw or Teeny Craw crankbait
5. The Tiny Topedo by Headon

These baits will cover most situations you will encounter from the top of the water column to the bottom. The range of baits will also allow you to make preventions that will be effective in slow, medium, and faster current.

Gear Storage

There are tons of options for packing gear to the creek. You wont’ have much but having an organize tackle storage option will help you spend more time enjoying the fishing instead of digging through tackle. The classic fishing vest is always a great option. Another option are small soft sided tackle bags with over the solder straps and the ability to handle Plano 360 boxes. Last but not least, one of my favorites is the tackle fanny pack. They stay out of your way, carry enough gear for a day on the creek, and offer quick access to that gear.

Fishing Strategy

I grew up fishing limestone streams and tiny clear creeks for smallmouth bass. Creek smallmouth can be as weary as the illusive summer brook trout. Your best approach will be to fish moving upstream and make long casts. This will increase the odds of you making a good bait presentation before fish know your in their neighborhood.

I’ll typically do some creek fishing about every other week. It’s a great way to relax after work or for a few hours on a Saturday afternoon. You’ll also want to remember that small creeks do not always mean small fish. Several years ago I was fishing a creek that I could cross in about three bit hops and caught a 20.5 inch smallmouth bass. What a surprise and a memory! The moral of the story, don’t under estimate a creek. Always be ready for the smallmouth bass of a lifetime!