I normally fished the outside edge of thick pads or the top. However, the pads have not completely grown in yet and this spring I've been swimming a jig and fluke throw them with success. As we get closer to summer the vegetation is getting pretty thick, making it harder to fish. I alway watched and read about punching pads but for some reason I've always felt like its a west/south technique. just not sure if the the heavy weights, and punching skirts are worth the investment.  

You don't have to get top of the line punching gear to do it.  Get some 1/2-1oz lead bullet weights, some bobber stops (or make your own), some flipping hooks of the brand to your liking, and a package of beaver style baits or any punching bait (think slender).  You're missing out if you're not doing it especially in the hot summer months.  The technique is open to any water that holds thick vegetation. Give it a try, might be a new technique you fall in love with.

 

Punch skirts, tungsten weights, and high end flipping hooks can be introduced later when you get a feel for how punching works. Who knows, you may not end up liking it and not wanting to do it.  Let us know how you do.

You don't have to get top of the line punching gear to do it.  Get some 1/2-1oz lead bullet weights, some bobber stops (or make your own), some flipping hooks of the brand to your liking, and a package of beaver style baits or any punching bait (think slender).  You're missing out if you're not doing it especially in the hot summer months.  The technique is open to any water that holds thick vegetation. Give it a try, might be a new technique you fall in love with.

 

Punch skirts, tungsten weights, and high end flipping hooks can be introduced later when you get a feel for how punching works. Who knows, you may not end up liking it and not wanting to do it.  Let us know how you do.

thanks for the info.. went out on Tuesday and got three bits but only boated one. it was pretty cool fighting them throw the mats. I have a feeling i will be spending more time in the thick stuff this year. 

The tackle will run you around $100 which isnt bad. The heavy action rod can be used for an alabama rig so its worth it.