Haven't fished since high school with my dad, using mostly powerbait back then.
This month, I got an UglyStik Lite Pro, a Lews reel, and some line and lures. I'm using 8lbs braided line and a 6lbs fluorocarbon line, a barrel swivel, and a 1 hook rooster tail with the barb smushed down.
Went about 5pm, found a shallower part of the river, casted into shade, and on my 3rd cast I snagged this guy. A little over a foot I think, had some heft to him. Easy catch and release without the barb. I was so stoked.
Excited to fish some more. Shout out to /r/fishingforbeginners as well.
Posted by NerevarNonsense