muskiebassfisher

looking for the best way to grab a pike over 36". normally i drag it a little to shore, still leaving it in the water, and then use my pliers to remove the hook. problem is i have to hold the hook very hard and be prepared for it to slash so i don't get hooked. it's effective but crazy. it looks like a giant explosion. i don't carry a net when im shore fishing, and trying to gill it with a giant jerk bait in its mouth doesn't look to safe.

whats the best knot to use to attach a fluoro leader to braid with the smallest knot to avoid drag going thru the guides.

whats a better action for plastics and some crankbaits.