I had an 1850 and an HDS 7 fit flush mounted in the dash perfectly…An 8 or 10 would not fit though. I also had a 5 RAM mounted above.

I am not certain what krook is looking for in a show but I was there and I thought it was a good show. Plenty of cool wheelhouses, portables everywhere, the full staff from Thorne Brothers, seminars from Roach and Genz along with free parking. To each his own…I guess.

Stopping by the show in Blaine with my good buddy the Willow Cat and if I have any $$$ left, I may stop at Gander.

Did I see Free Parking – Nice…

Sounds like a great show – My good friend the Willow Cat and I will be there.

BK – are you a hardwater fan?

I have tried many types of specific made for ice fishing lines and I have settled on Trilene Sensation which is not touted as an ice fishing line. I use the orange or green (which makes it visible outside of the hole and easy to manage) and tie on a small swivel with an 18″ – 24″ flouro leader. Make certain to use a very small swivel so your flasher does not pick it up on the screen. I downsize the leader as well…For panfish, I use 4 lb Sensation with a 3 lb flouro leader.

Take a look at a custom rod from Thorne Bros… They are a great value. I have 2 rods made from Rainshadow blanks and they are fantastic. Cost… A very reasonable $140.00. As you mentioned – they will put your dad’s name on it and you can pick the colors… Very cool. These rods easily compare to my $235 Loomis rods. Attach a Pflueger Supreme XT or a Shimano Stradic for about $150.00 and you have a great set-up for under $300.00.