Lattitudechange

Captcl,
You can use braid for backing, however I would not recommend it. I would start out with 30 lb. micron. It's a little more forgiving for a new fly fisherman. You also have less a chance of cutting yourself if you have the fortune of a fish taking you down to the backing.

Yes a slow sinking line is a good all around line. Have your shop put an 11 wt. Intermediate line on it. It's a good idea to upload by one for new flyfisherman. It will help you with your casting by making it easier to load the rod.

Bobs banger is a surface lure. I would only take this out if I see surface action. The best and only patterns you need are the ones that are proven time and time again. Top five flies for bass are The Clouser, Lefty's Deciever, Epoxys, Crease flies/Bobs Banger for surface action. There are many more. The first two I mentioned are proven and most of the patterns you will see are tied, based on them. Start with those two patterns and learn to present them well. They imitate almost anything that a fish will eat. Good luck and tight lines.

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Dean of Admissions, Pikers Club