As for bringing a scale, I do need to get one. It's just hard to spend what little money I have for fishing on stuff that isn't going to help me catch. I doubt I'll ever bring a camera though, I already have enough in my pockets when I walk the shore there.

So, why 12#? I've been using 6# in my tube since Sept. and saltwater bass have much worse teeth. The only structure on these ponds is hanging over my head. I doubt the fish are up there very often, so I don't have to worry about pulling them out. Is it the way that LM tend to hit the jig? Or, just tradition? John said to experiment. Maybe I am and don't know it. Will I get bit a lot less w/ 12#? It'd be nice not to lose anymore hooks in fishes mouths.

Thanks for all the input guys, I got a late start w/ this stuff. I need all the help I can get to catch up.

Amish Ed