View Full Version : Single hooks on Stickbaits?
Bob G2
04-15-2001, 06:42 AM
Anyone out there ever try single hooks on a stick bait like a thunderstick or floater Rapala. I use single hook setups on divers like Hot-n-Tots and Wiggle Warts, to great advantage. I have used a single hook on the tail of a stickbait, but has anyone had a chance to try singles for all the hooks? Did you see any disadvantages?
The only disadvantage, is that if you get a fish that makes a near strike, but turns away at the last minute, might still get hooked on a treble, but miss a single hook.
Lots of advantages in less problems with netting, etc.
Quite a few folks have tried it and in general, there is little difference in the number of fish in the boat. On some days when the fish are a bit lathargic, you might get an extra fish or two on a treble.
Do an a/b experiment. Run two identical rigs, one with trebles, one without and let us know your results.
Many of the folks that use these in canadian water always run single hooks. I think that in particular where there are large congreations of fish, the single hook is a better way to go.
Take Care
REW
I use #7&9 rapalas with a single hook in the Maumee during the spring run.Only single hooks allowed until May.It really works great when the jacks are biting.
What beside not tangling in the net,or
are they less prone to snags? Does the
plug work any better,less weight?
ddt
Bob G2
04-15-2001, 05:57 PM
One problem that I have seen is when the fish take the crankbait sideways and hook up both pairs of trebles, they are then able to leverage the trebles loose. This is especially true in situations where there is alot of pressure on the fish, or with fish that fight especially hard. Another problem is that multiple trebles can really mutilate the face of a fish you may intend to release. Other advantages you mentioned also apply.
Additionally, some of the trebles they put on cranks, such as with hot-n-tot (except rattle tots) are junk.
With single hooks, I have observed more solid hookups. As expected, much, much easier when netting and unhooking fish. As REW mentioned, you may miss a lazy fish or two. I just never tried it on stickbaits, but I think this is fertile for experimentation.