These work very well

[ozark trout fisher]

I don't look down on anyone for spending $15 on a plug if they want to...my problem is when they assume that anyone who doesn't is an amateur.

When I'm spin-fishing, I have a $20 Shakespeare rod, an admittedly decent reel (the one part of the equation where I think spending money actually matters) and a cheap kayak from bass pro. And I choose to pair that with Rebel Craws and Zoom plastic worms, and maybe a Rapala or two. It works, I have confidence in all of it, and I catch fish. You all might fish circles around me, but if so, it's because you are better at fishing and have been at it longer on Ozark streams. It's not going to be because you spend more on tackle.

So fish with what you fish with and have confidence in, and we're good. But I'll admit I get a kick out of those who relentlessly give me crap for using a Rooster Tail or a Rebel Craw and then get upset when people rib them for spending too much on tackle.

I'm actually thinking I might like what this whole "Ned Rig" thing is doing to the sport. It's a rare trend that is actually a step away from the expensive/fancy side of the spectrum to something that is ridiculously simple (and cheap) but just looks like food and catches fish like crazy.

[ColdWaterFshr]

I own exactly 2 WTD lures. A sammy and a zara spook. I've caught several big fish on both, but it just isn't my thing. Main reason --- I hate treble hooks. Oh, and I'm not very good at making it walk right or fast enough. I've seen Al in action with his and it is something to behold. I'm a believer in it . . . but in capable and skilled hands . . . not mine.

And I fish almost exclusively topwater for smallmouth. It doesn't get any better than this.

Give me a 1 and 3/8 ounce B-2 buzz bait any day of the week. 1) its far more weedless - glides easy over logs, or into logs, tops of weed beds and other crap, 2) It moves fasts, 3) casts a country mile, 4) invokes strikes as explosive as any other big lure, and 5) it has a single sharp hook that usually gets the job done. And its definitely Dink-proof. I've seen it frighten off sunbathing crocs, herds of water buffalo, and even a terrorist or two. Sounds like a German V-2 when you cast it. And its $7 not $23.

[Seth]

If this freaking Gasconade River would ever clear up, I may actually get to put the lure that Smalliebigs gave me to use. I'm getting tired of dragging bottom, but it has produced a lot of nice fish for me so I've been making myself stick with it. It will be a good excuse to pick up a decent 6' or 6'6" m/f setup that I've been putting off until this winter for when the jerkbait bite picks up.

[ColdWaterFshr]

Throw big, or go home gentlemen.

[drew03cmc]

Holy Jeepers, that is a muskie bait.

[fishinwrench]

Doesn't look like either one of those baits has seen much use. You need to get out more, CWF.

[snagged in outlet 3]

I just don't understand this need to be a lure martyr about spending a few extra dollars when you're going to the river in $40.000 truck and boat.

Heck that boat for sale on here used is $52K.

I'd be embarrassed to pull it in my $40K truck.

That thing is stud.

That clown picture in your sig scares me a little.

Carry on.

Pete

[Chief Grey Bear]

You know I fish creeks / rivers too right? I've caught big smallmouth in both scenarios in multiple states and multiple countries. It's not a big deal. I'm glad you're confident in your lures and your techniques.

I'm still amazed you don't have your own top shelf fishing show.

[Smalliebigs]

Here's one that was just shipped to my office and I'm sure it will freak some people out

It was more of a joke but, I am going to have this painted and fish it @ LOZ and TR......the hooks and o rings weigh almost an over ounce ......weighs 4 5/8 ounces and over 9 inches of thick molded plastic for her pleasure.....I mean the fishes

[Flysmallie]

It was more of a joke but......

not as much as those shorts are.