Bill, I'm just giving my opinion. Which has become a waist of time nowadays here. For me, I'd rather feel the bite than see it. I will agree the cork method makes sense...but I can't hold the cork in my hand. As u well know, it's all about confidence. Those fish don't care what kinda pole you have or who you bought minnows from. So I fish with and what I think is best. It gives me confidence. Like I said in my post, u need to try it and see what you like best. Good luck