VAFolks14

So this is exactly how I was rigging these at first on a shaky head. I had a heck of a time getting a hook in a fish with this setup. I did find if you put a stopper on the shank of the hook to keep the bait from sliding it helped, but I still would say I hooked less than 50% of the fish I had bite. Is this not something you've noticed rigging them like this?

I picked up one of the Coike's at the Classic and ordered a couple of the Hag's back in the Spring. I spent a fair amount of time messing with them in the pre-spawn and I have to say, I've never seen a bait that gets a fish's attention the way these baits do. Rigging these has always been the challenge and I'd say my first several attempts I probably hooked about 15% of my bites. I was so frustrated I actually stopped fishing them until a little better information started coming out regarding rigging techniques. The big treble hook is definitely the way to go if you're not fishing around grass or directly into heavy cover. I will put a dab of super glue on the hook to help hold the bait and I've yet to have a fish throw one, so as long as you dont get it hung it will last a really long time. If you have them, I'd definitely have one on.

I'm a really big fan of EWG hooks as well. Im fishing around grass and wood almost all of the time so I really like to skin hook the top of the plastic to make my hook more snag resistant. I've never felt that I lost a fish because of my hook. I will say, when I'm fishing a shaky head, that's the only time I prefer to not have an EWG.

This was the first classic I've attended and certainly don't think it'll be the last. I had an absolute blast and it was great meeting up with @IYAOYAS and spending an afternoon talking bass fishing. I think its truly incredible how accessible and approachable the titans of this sport are. The fact that I was able to walk right up to and have a quick conversation with guys like KVD, Rick Clunn, Randy Howell, Ike, etc. is something that I find incredibly unique to this industry. I'm even proud to say I managed to stay within my set budget at the expo! Overall, I'd give my Classic experience a 10/10 and I'm already looking at making plans for Greenville in 2027.

I appreciate all the feedback so far. I didn't mention takeoff but definitely plan on going at least Sunday and probably Saturday morning as well. @IYAOYAS I'll shoot you a message and certainly would be willing to meet up sometime for a coffee or quick bite.

I'll be attending the Bassmaster Classic next month for the first time. I've wanted to attend one for almost 20 years but have just never been able to make it work. I'll be traveling alone and arriving Friday mid-afternoon and leaving Monday morning to head home. I'm looking for some advice from folks who have been here before and are willing to share their experience to a first time attendee. I'm currently planning on spending most of Saturday at the expo and attending the weigh-in on Sunday but outside of that I really have no agenda. What are some of the must-see events that you recommend looking into? What about evenings after the expo and weigh in are complete? Are there evening events which you recommend checking into? Also, any logistic tips such as parking, restaurants, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!