All of my spinning reels are Shimanos. I have several different levels of the from the Sedona to the Stradic. They are the most dependable reels that I have ever owned.
I have only had one trip where we both limited. I got tired of spending all the $$$ for gas so I have quit going. This year looks a lot like 2003 to me.
Only you can make that decision. If you want to get back to brush etc then you should buy the gps model. Is not then the down scan is really a nice feature as you can really tell what is below you.
You will probably have the same problems with interference and a low unit as they run on the same frequency as the birds do. The Elite series might work for your budget.
I bet I saw 20-30 boats snagging in Flat and James today and not one boat had a fish tied on the side and I never saw a fish of any kind caught today but there must have been a hundred boat out there. All the parking areas from Flat to Cape Fair were full.
No you don't. My molds came from Bear's Baits. The total tube is made with one injection. Laminates are easy and if I want the body thicker I dip it in hot plastisol.
http://www.americananglersfishing.com/gallery/13_28_01_10_4_13_28.jpeg
I used to dip a few. I did vertical dipping and was considering horizontal but it was a real slow process and I had to cut the tails so I quit and started injecting them. Pricey but a lot easier and faster.
You can go to www.tackleunderground.com and do some research on making tubes.
Several schools won't allow freshmen to have automobiles. There is a good reason for that. I think you would be better off if you didn't get into a boat for the first year so you will have time to learn how to study for college classes.
If things go well then the boat idea can be looked at.
JMO.
There is a private campground on H highway just north of the corps Rouark campgrounds. I don't know if it is open or not but it might be what you want. Bill at Son Sac Marine might know about it.
It is not the greatest and there is no concrete ramp but I have done it lots of times over the years. When I had a small motor that is the only placed that I launched.