Hello,

 

Just curious if any would share their experiences using a punch rig setup with a bait that has a hook slot, like som of the Rage baits, etc. I haven't ordered any baits to try it, but am curious if the slot helps to use a straight shank hook, and get better hookup rate, or if it takes too much bulk out of a bait? I could se punching with a 1.5 oz being enough going through the mat to expose the point and cause hang ups? I was hoping others could share their experiences if they have tried it?

 

Thanks,

 

Clemmy

Never hand an issue using a missile baits domb. I just want a bait that can slip through the grass without getting hung. 

3 hours ago, tbone1993 said:

Never hand an issue using a missile baits domb. I just want a bait that can slip through the grass without getting hung. 

A little secret bait I use punching grass all over is the pitboss sooo amazing 

3 hours ago, AnglingNvirginia said:

A little secret bait I use punching grass all over is the pitboss sooo amazing 

Agreed there. Devil Spears with a skirt are great too. 

Two of my other favorite are Gambler Why Not's and Ugly Otters. 

11 hours ago, Mosster47 said:

Agreed there. Devil Spears with a skirt are great too. 

Two of my other favorite are Gambler Why Not's and Ugly Otters. 

Yes I do like the gambler soft plastics alot

Rage Structure Bug

I've punched with the Rage Bug, Rage DB Craw, Biffle Bug, Netbait's Paca Craw, different "beaver baits".  They all get bit and all work at different times.  Find one you like.  Also like usin the Z-Manns Punch Craw's.  I've been using the same pack of 6 for the last 2 years.  They are pretty indistructable and do get bit when they want that kind of bait.

I punch with Yum Dingers since they have a hook slot since Texposing can be tough with baits that are really soft, or when dealing with weeds, so i like hook slots, but good sharp hooks will get through without texposing. Most baits are small a hard swing and pressure will puncture the bait and get a solid set...

I do like hooks slots especially for a flipping hook with a keeper barb, I find them tricky to texpose, but I use the BPS Magna Lock hooks more than any other. I think I use the BMF hook? I was given a bunch when I was having issues with Gamakatsu flipping hooks and VMC hooks since they just are not good or I got a bad batch as they tear up baits, eyes are not welded closed, but These hooks are almost overkill but with heavy braid they are necessary imo...I use heavy duty Round bends as well, I always try to use 3/0-4/0 hooks and never an EWG but I know some guys prefer EWG, I just find they pick up junk easier so I save them for lighter cover. 

The Pit Boss will work as good as any bait if put in the right place, but I do have more confidence in the smaller baits from Culprit and Gambler, and recently I am into the Z-Man baits as they work well when you need to soak a bait..Palmetto bug, Punch Craw, Speed Craw, and the shrimp....Exude Fan tail shrimp is my favorite bait if I need a rattle, better version than the Havoc Slop craw, with a slimy coating and awesome colors Bass never see...Not pretty, but it works great at times since it holds that big rattle and glides through anything easy, and the rigid plastic never moves on the hook...Punching is complex, but so much fun as it is challenging and always different then you expect it to be...If only a Frog worked all the time that would be awesome....