Quote Originally Posted by redearhoosier View Post
Guys, I'm tired of losing big adult redear on my poles, using four pound test line and number 8 long shank hooks. Here's a quick rundown on my gear: poles-5'6 inch Cherrywood Berkley light action poles bought at Kmart and Walmart. These poles are a blast to catch big crackers on but I'm wondering if they're stout enough. Line-four pound test line is currently on all of my reels. Reels-I have one Mitchell 310 and five Shakesphere models from Kmart. Hook size-no 8 long shank hooks. Knot-half blood knot or clinch knot, whichever you call it.

Your gear is PLENTY strong for redear. I have no idea why you're losing fish, but it's not because of your tackle. I've landed carp and cats over 10# and bass over 7# on gear like this. There are stronger knots, though. I use the Orvis (Becker) knot. Palomar, Trilene, and Uni knot are good, too.


Quote Originally Posted by redearhoosier View Post
I'm losing fish sometimes when the line breaks

I've never had a redear break 4# line. Maybe your line is old or damaged. You could try using braid, like 8/1 or 10/2 Power Pro. Fireline is good, too.


Quote Originally Posted by redearhoosier View Post
other times they're spitting the hook at the top of the water or just spitting the hook after being hooked.

Not much you can do about that. It happens with other types of fish, too.