I’d call that a win. Just remember what results you get from what baits and how you presented them. We all learn a little bit each time we go, even if it’s so small you don’t realize it yet.

I also broke a pole today, on 1.5 lb bass. Luckily they said I have 3 year warranty. I learned my lesson on the bump boards. Check your rules because I think the mouth should be fully closed you might have to hold your hand on the fish to keep it closed. They penalize up to 1/2” for open mouth.

Texas rig works very well also. I’m pretty new here too maybe 6-8 weeks and I bet my fish catches have doubled. Don’t only watch the videos, but read people’s stories on where they fished and what they caught them on. Most important go out and fish. Theres a lot of members here who are very knowledgeable and they may not respond to your post but they may post what they caught and what they used in what conditions. Good luck!

I’m not an expert by any means but I do like fishing with a chatterbait. When I’m using one and I feel something on it I can usually rip it or reel and yank it fast and it’s usually breaks free. If there’s openings with no grass maybe you can try different angles to stay in openings. If it’s submerged maybe put a different trailer on and keep it above all the grass.

I signed up and found the app in the Apple App Store weighbook all one word. I had trouble finding the tournament in the app, I had to go back and use the link sent here.

I agree with cheaper items, cheap spinning reel combo and some easy to cast and retrieve baits. I remember always using the mister twisters on a round jig head a lot from the bank. If you lose a few it doesn’t hurt as much. You catch a variety of species but when you catch a 2-3lb bass it feels like a trophy. Once you become addicted then you start investing more time and money into the different lures and techniques.

I buy the elite evo chatterbaits. I’ve never tried the jackhammer but I see they’re double the price of the evo. I’m curious as well if the difference in action is worth the price. I always have a pole with a chatterbait tied on with me.

We have smallmouth where I live in NY they’re such strong fighters, I imagine shoal

Bass fight similar to them. A 2lb smallmouth feels like you have a 4lb largemouth on the hook.

Congrats on the win! Hope you get AOY also. That looks like a 5lb + fish in your left hand, nice work!