It's important to note that not all crankbaits require immediate hook upgrades but many less expensive models do. Even though higher-end lures often come equipped with quality hooks; the decision to change those as well depends on individual needs and preferences of the angler.
However, understanding the potential benefits of upgrading hooks can help bass anglers optimize their crankbait performance and potentially increase their catch rates.
Take a few minutes and watch as bass pro Bradley Roy reveals the reasons why he often changes out the stock trebles on his crankbaits as well as other hardbaits...
I recently purchased several "low-end" crankbaits to use around heavy cover and was quickly reminded why treble hook upgrades are important.
Though the baits did a great job of getting bass to strike, I had a hard time keeping them pinned on the stock trebles. After changing out the stock hooks to higher quality options, my landing percentage rose above 75%. The change was definitely worth the cost for the upgrade!
The drop shot rig is a finesse technique known for its subtle presentation, and dedicated drop shot hooks, with their short shanks and wide gaps, are often the go-to choice.
However, seasoned bass anglers know that there are situations where a straight shank hook can offer distinct advantages.
Here's when to reach for that longer, straight shank hook:
1. Probing Cover: Fishing around heavy cover like rocks, brush piles, or thick vegetation requires a different approach. A straight shank hook, often referred to as a “finesse Neko hook” or “straight shank worm hook”, allows you to Texas rig your preferred soft plastic bait. This increases weedless protection, preventing the hook from snagging and hindering your presentation.
2. Hook Setting Power: While drop shot hooks excel at hooking finesse bites, they can sometimes come up short when fish strike aggressively. The increased leverage offered by a longer shank allows for a more forceful hookset, driving the point home in situations where a shorter shank drop shot hook might struggle. This is especially beneficial when targeting bigger bass or fishing in heavy current.
3. Bait Presentation Options: A straight shank hook doesn't just offer weedless rigging. You can also thread the soft plastic further up the shank, leaving the hook point exposed when fishing areas with little or sparse cover.
4. Versatility is Key: Choosing a straight shank hook doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing finesse. Many finesse-wire models are available, combining longer shanks with thinner wire for optimal action and hook penetration. This allows you to switch between Texas rigging and traditional drop shotting with the same hook, adapting to changing fishing conditions.
Bass pro Cody Huff relies on the effectiveness of the drop shot rig to maintain his competitive standing in the Bassmaster Elite tour. Take a couple minutes and watch as he explains his reasons when opting for a straight shank hook over the standard drop shot version when rigging for a day on the water...
When conditions call for finesse and you don't require weedless protection, stick with the dedicated drop shot hook.
However, don't be afraid to experiment! A straight shank hook can add an extra layer of versatility and effectiveness to your drop shot arsenal, helping you land more bass in challenging situations.
Imagine casting your line with laser-like precision, knowing exactly where fish are lurking and how they're reacting to your lure. That's the promise of forward-facing sonar with live imaging, a revolutionary technology that's transforming the fishing world.
But is it an angler's dream or a fairness nightmare?
Let's dive deep and explore the pros and cons of this powerful tool.
What is Forward-Facing Sonar with Live Imaging?
Unlike traditional sonar that paints a picture of what's beneath your boat, Live imaging uses scanning sonar to provide real-time, high-resolution images of what's in front of you, up to 200 feet away. It's like having an underwater video game, revealing fish, structures, and even bait in stunning detail.
Pros:
Unmatched Fish Visualization: See fish in real-time, their size, direction, and even their reaction to your bait. This intel allows for targeted casting and jigging, maximizing your catch rate.
Structure Insight: Identify underwater features like brush piles, ledges, and drop-offs, pinpointing fish holding areas with ease. No more blind casting, just strategic presentations.
Enhanced Safety: See hazards like rocks and submerged objects ahead of time, preventing damage and ensuring a smooth ride.
Tournament Advantage: For professional anglers, FFS with live imaging can be a game-changer, providing a significant edge in competition.
Cons:
Cost: Live imaging systems are expensive, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, putting them out of reach for many casual anglers.
Learning Curve: Mastering live imaging interpretation and using it effectively takes time and practice. It's not a plug-and-play technology.
Ethical Concerns: Some argue that FFS with live imaging gives unfair advantage, reducing the skill required for successful fishing and potentially harming fish populations.
Potential Regulation: Tournaments and fisheries are grappling with the ethical implications of FFS with live imaging, with potential regulations on the horizon.
The Verdict:
Forward-facing sonar with live imaging is a powerful tool, but it's not without its drawbacks. Whether it's the right choice for you depends on your budget, fishing style, and personal ethics. If you're a serious angler seeking a technological edge and are willing to invest the time and money, FFS with live imaging can be a game-changer. However, if you value fair competition, tradition, and the challenge of the unknown, traditional sonar might be a better fit.
Some folks believe only younger, less experienced tournament anglers will use FFS with live imaging more effectively than the old timers giving them an unearned/unfair advantage.
However, one of the longest running tournament professionals and four time Classic winner, Mr. Rick Clunn has a different view regarding the use of FFS with live imaging. Take a few minutes and listen to what he has to say about FFS in the following video...
Remember, responsible fishing practices are crucial, regardless of the technology you use. Respecting fish populations and the environment is paramount, and using any sonar responsibly is key. So, before diving into the world of FFS with live imaging, consider all aspects and make an informed decision that aligns with your values and fishing goals.
Do you think FFS with live imaging is a valuable tool or an unfair advantage? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
When most people think of Kevin VanDam (KVD), they see the preeminent power fisherman plying his skills on the professional bass trails for several decades. Even though he may prefer working spinnerbaits, crankbaits and chatterbaits through the warming spring waters, KVD is one of the most well rounded anglers around.
Anytime conditions call for finesse, KVD has three preffered baits he leans on when needing to trick finicky springtime bass into biting; Strike King's Ned Ocho, Baby Z-Too and the Bitsy Tube.
Take a few minutes and watch as KVD discusses each bait, when he opts for them as well as the rod combos he uses with each rig...
Heavily pressured waters can be intimidating for bass anglers. Every dock, obvious point, and weedbed seems picked over, somedays leaving you wondering if there are any fish left in the lake at all.
Always observe what's going on in the area you're fishing! Watch where other anglers are fishing and try to find structure and cover away from those areas. Look for subtle changes in things like water clarity, cover density (think isolated and less obvious), or current breaks that might hold hidden bass.
Utilize technology when available! Download lake maps and depth charts to identify potential hotspotsthen consider using a sonar unit to locate less obvious structure, cover and baitfish.
Take some time and watch as Jonny from the "Fish the Moment" YouTube channel describes his approach to using electronics to find non-standard fishing locations on todays pressured waters...
Even though his approach is centered on the use of elctronics to find offshore areas, sometimes the same principles apply when fishing shallower areas and looking for visual clues as well!
