It's easy to see everyone has their preferences in fighting fish. I like back cranking too but just haven't felt the need to use it much anymore with the tackle I currently have. I also don't like to mess with my drag while fighting a fish. My dad messed up that way a couple of years ago fighting a huge smallmouth on KY. He hooked that fish on medium spinning tackle and had his drag set a touch on the light side and this fish really took off on him running under the boat and by the motor and when he tried to tighten up a bit to gain control -- pop -- and she was gone. As hot as that fish was I don't know if back cranking would have helped or not running up under the boat like that fish did but tightening that drag sure ended it quick.

I say do what feels right. If what you are doing is putting fish in the boat then you must be doing something right. If not, it may be time to re-consider. Tight lines all (just not too tight)!!!

kc