Most of my waters are coming out of a dry spell and most thick cover is rather shallow. What is the minimum depth required for punching and is it worthwhile targeting flotsam mats in less than three feet of water? I'm getting some on frog but want to target the less aggressive ones as well.

As long as I think a bass can fit under the mat I'll punch it.  1 foot or 10 feet it doesn't matter. 

I have caught them out from under mats I would bottom my boat out in if I went up in them.........and I have an aluminum boat.  More times than not it's with a frog when they get that shallow, but I have yanked a few punching. For me, usually the better punching mats have at least some depth under them........and by that I mean a foot or more.

I've caught them in less than a foot of water in the right conditions. 

Thanks for the replies. I am guessing that in shallow water, less than a foot I would nEed as light a weight as I can punch through instead of an ounce or more?

Thanks for the replies. I am guessing that in shallow water, less than a foot I would nEed as light a weight as I can punch through instead of an ounce or more?

Nope, a heavy weight is just fine. The bait can't go far in less than a foot of water and that big weight slamming into the mud and silt is going to kick up little clouds like a baitfish or crawdad messing around on the bottom and help get their attention. 

Thanks. I am trying to figure out my tackle for the weekend and trying to decide on taking or leaving the big stick.