Pitching jigs; how do u hook minnow

[Waterwolf]

I am fairly new to pitching and would like to know how to hook the minnow so it doesn't come off so easily. Mike Peluso promised to get me in the boat some day and show me how but he still hasn't!! I forgot to tape a segment given by him on the sports last fall so your picture or words would help me out greatly. thanks in advance.

[Lund AnglerMJ]

For me,I just put the jig into the minnow's mouth,out the gill,and pierce it's back,beolw or near the dorsal fin.As you exit the gill,turn the jig.I hope that help's. I saw someone at the In-Fisherman show's doing it. I think Al was.Another guy was Bill Binlkeman.I've got an old issue with him showing the difference in minnow specie's.Tail hooking work's,but usually on a plain hook.See you in the weed's!By the way,when you hook a minnow as I menthioned he swim's alot better.

[Chad]

I have two methods depsnding on the size of the minnow.
1) with larger minnows I do as the prior post suggests.
2) With smaller minnows I just come out the top of the skull.

[River_eye]

I think I do it the same as the first reply. Put the hook in the mouth, out one of the gills, then twist the minnow so you can send the hook up through the belly and out near the dorsal fin. I don't push the hook out barely, just leaving it a micrometer below the surface works good.

[tj1n]

I have found no better way then the previously mentioned method. As was mentioned, this method allows the minnow to perform the most naturally. One suggestion that seems to work and I believe is true....
1. In the mouth out the gill
2. Turn the minnow and come up through the bottom at a 60 degree angle towards the mouth and make sure the hook comes back through the skull in right in front (towards mouth) of the minnows eyes. They will live twice as long and the performance seems to be that much greater.
3. Slide the minnows mouth over the flange on the jig head if it has one.

Not the only way, but works the best for me.

Good luck,
Travis Joritz

I come through the bottom of the jaw and out between the eyes. I've never had a problem with performance.

Signed, taught by the best(Pro's) since I was a kid