Damn its been a while since I've been here on the board. A month since the last reply..oh well. Yeah, I started throwing the small Castaics from Wally World when I first started. Was using a Basspro 7' MH Tourney Special rod and 12lb. First time I threw that bait was right after the last trout stock at the local lake. I missed like a 6lber. right in front of my friggin' eyes. Dull trailer hook... I learned my lessons that day. The rod I was using is now my Spook rod, which it's doing a great job as using braid and a Vixen. But swimbaits, no way. The rod would break before I got a hook in the fish. Oh yeah, thanks Rob. Your insght was much appreciated. Congrats on moving back to SLO dude. Nice to hear your getting your MBA. I start applying this year, trying to get to Davis if I can. Wish me luck man... Anyways, thanks guys.