Great stuff Mike!!!!!
I've only been out twice so far, but, have stayed away from the river...tossing hardware at the rivermouths. Like you said, nothing beats the strikes. First time out, was using my old school Trilene XT, 8 lb set-up. Last time out, had my Pflueger Arbor 7450 (similiar to your US Reel) loaded with 30 lb braid, and a flouro leader. First time I've fished bows with braid...I'm a believer, definitely won't be the last time!!!