I'm from N. Va and the biggest difference I have found is colors. These Fl. Bass are lazy and not as aggressive. Frogs, flukes, snakes and yum dingers, worms, blade baits, and traps. Waters are mostly clear. Light natural colors.
Fishing capital of the world. Florida.
Central Florida
Sport- Largemouth Bass
Eat- Grouper
On a bait casting reel the line should come off the top.
Just make sure drag on reel is set correctly.
Ranger 205 with Mercury EFI 225 and Minnkota 80# trolling motor.
If you you feel a snag, just keep line taught, if the rod tip moves a little, set hook. Remember hook sets are free.
I live in central Florida. With plastic worms I use the lightest weight I can get away with even on big worms, 1/8 & 1l16. Wind and depth will dictate if I need to go heavier.