Field checks

Instructional advice: quick on-the-water validations

• Deflection check: Hang a known 1.5 oz practice weight. The tip should load in the first foot; the mid should stay firm. If the mid folds early, your combo is effectively overloaded.
• Hookset rehearsal: With ~20 ft of line out, simulate a drop and sweep. The line should come tight instantly without tip bounce. If you feel bounce, shorten the sweep and raise drag slightly.
• Drag proof: Point the rod at the weight, lock the spool, and pull against the drag. Set just high enough that the drag slips slightly under a two-hand lift; too tight risks braid or knot failure when the weight stops on a stem.
• Knot check: Snell—after several hard yanks, the knot shouldn’t migrate. FG/Alberto (if used) should pass guides smoothly; if you hear clicks, trim tags and re-seat. Always seat fully before trimming the leader on an FG.
• Entry sound audit: From ~30 ft, your bait should enter with a muted plop. If it slaps, lower the casting angle and engage the spool just before impact.

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