1) It is ME, Boys and Girls! My Greenjeans is here too!!! If I could grow hair like that (again ) that would be funny…Maybe its just my Sunny Kromer fishing hat?
2) Line weight…I have never felt I needed anything but 8-12# Flouro since it came out years ago. I love the feel of that line and have used the same test lines for many years and have never lost a big bass because of that factor.
The (new formula) Sufix Flouro I am currently using is underrated for breaking strength, as are many lines are out there.
The 10# is .011 diameter but I can straighten most std Gammy 1/4 oz 4/0 jig hooks with a steady pull! W/O actual testing I think the Gamma I also use may be even stronger.
I really believe the the 7’6″ MH/fast rod I am using is also a key factor…tip section akin to a crankbait rod that quickly loads to serious hook setting backbone.
I also guess you fellas may be fishing more weeds/snags and probably not the crystal clear waters that we have here ( less than 50 miles from Lake Superior. Only the rivers have any “color”.
My other option is similar to Greg Huff’s Football jig video…30# Sufix 832 with a 20# flouro leader…20# leader only because of the increasing pike biteoffs I am experiencing lately. but I haven’t used that much this year.
I may be the luckiest guy in the world…Michigan’s U.P. has lakes loaded with 5,6,7, and even 8+ lb Large and Smallmouth Bass and there is ZERO pressure!!! These are classic, clear water, Canadian Shield Lakes with primarily gravel/rock bottoms…some cabbage and grass…steep woody shorelines…Just like Chequamegon Bay and Canada.
and LOTS of crayfish!
Caught by my buddy Rich (he is 6’7″ tall) last year…honest 8.45 lbs…the biggest Large mouth ever in my boat…there are even bigger ones out there…they die of old age…