Sounds like user malfunction. You are releasing the line either to early or to late with your thumb which makes it casts in the directions you are talking about. Also if the rod handle is long enough try putting your other hand on the butt of the rod to stabilize it.
You can also use a spinnerbait, buzz bait etc. Something that moves the water when using it so the fish know it's there. Rattle traps or crankbaits with rattles help the them find the bait.
I had forgot about the Rapalas which are super top waters especially in ponds. A friend has about a 10 acre pond and the big bass love the jointed Rapalas. Caught fish up and over 8lbs on the Rapalas reeled really slow.
Rebel PopR, Buzz bait, Zara Spook are all as good or better to me. I have had explosive hits on all 3 baits. Whopper is good but no better than the others. Mainly just something newer.
I have both and use the reel that works best for that bait. Sometimes it works better to use a left handed reel than change hands while the lure (buzz bait, spinner bait etc) is in the air and you want/need to start reeling when the lure hits the water. Just my preference and I like doing it that way. It took a little while to learn to do it but I am glad I did.
Put it in the trash or recycle. The line can get in between the trolling motor and the prop causing damage. It can also do the same on the outboard.
Not unless you are fishing professionally, getting free line or not using braid. I change mono out every 2 yrs or as needed (needs, knots, etc.)
Very well explained and a great plan to follow.
DCGravity I am like you. I take notice of when the feeding times are, (I don't schedule around it) and have notice that I catch more fish during that time. I may be catching fish before and after but I have notice I get more bites during that time. If you notice mother nature gets more active during that time also.
We were doing the slide retrieve backing in the 80"s. Stared using it while Carolina Riging and then started using it on all retrieves to see if the change up would get more bites. You need to experiment with every lure technique that you fish.
Look up Bass Resource on line. They have how to videos on just about every lure and technique that is being used today and the earlier days. You can find a tremendous amount of info if you just look. Major League Fishing, Bass Pros, Bassmasters and on and on and on.
Thank you, I have heard that version before and each time it brings tears to my eyes, Our Flag and National Anthem are what this country if founded upon. No person for whatever reason should do anything to disgrace either of them no mater the reason they use as an excuse. If you cannot respect our Flag and Anthem then you need to move to another country and live.
Still use the Zara Spook for walkin the dog. Hard to give up something that works.