I fish in the gulf all the time. Any freshwater bass outfit will work for most of what you will encounter off the beach. If you gear up for some of the random big boys, then you probably want have much fun. The Shimano Stradic may be out of your price range, but it has done a very good job in the sa...

I have used G loomis CBR rods, but not the IMX Pro. Also, I was using them for topwater. The 845 worked fantastically well for me with spook jrs, but was overpowered IMHO by the full size spook. The 847 worked great for the big spook, but overworked the jr.

Hope that helps in your decision.

I have tried kayak specific rods with shorter handles and didn't like them. I fish with my Dobyns swimbait 795 and 806 rods sitting down without any problems. You might need to experiment with what works best for you.

I have switched to using singles on almost everything. I always weigh the stock hook and replace it with an appropriate sized (weight) single. In fairness, I don't use jerkbaits very often if ever. I do think singles do better than trebles in grass, but that doesn't mean you aren't going to pick up ...

I do think they tend to dampen the action. However, if you are fishing the bait slower for less active fish then the feathers do add some attraction.

Lots of good videos on how to tie feathered trebles. You can knock out a dozen or so very quickly.

fantastic photo

Another vote for braid to mono/flouro leader.

You could go to a fly fishing shop, but that will cost you. It is not that expensive to get a minimal set up and tie them yourself. Lots of info on how to DIY on YouTube.

I do use cranking rods for topwater, at least spook style baits. The old Loomis fiberblend 845's fished a spook jr. like it was designed for the bait. I currently am using Dobyns 805's and feel that they are better in my hands than any of the Loomis rods I tried. In my case, fishing for spotted seat...

Wow. Stunning. Those are "contest winning photo" worthy.

Yes, and while I have considered using an inflatable because of comfort I haven't gotten around to trying one. Certainly a viable option and the best PFD is the one that you will actually use.

Congrats on the new kayaks. With high back seats, I would recommend an Astral V-Eight. It has a high back that works well for me with the seat back on my Hobie Outback

I think it may come down to personal preference. I have 3 Loomis CBR845's, but not the IMX Pro. I don't throw crankbaits very often. I use them for topwater. IMO, they make a great spook jr. rod. I don't like how they fish with a full size spook. The rods really shine when you hook up. I have an 805...

The Core 50 is a special little reel. As far as the "it" factor, it does it for me. I never felt that the CU50 had "it", at least for me. Sold the CU50E's, still have the Cores.

Owner split rings. Currently using the VMC inline singles.