Might have to give this a shot this winter. I've been pondering going the bonnet route because I'm a crankbait addict but this might be the better option. 

I have been doing this a long time as well and carry over 150 cranks combined for vacation in a deep 3700 and a standard 3700. This includes a 50 sized rat, 2 6th sense C25 deep divers and some plopper and choppos in the 110,120 range. 

 

I did buy the rubber bands from the hair care section and the ponytail bands come in various lengths which I have found handy using the longer ones, after a couple of pre stretches, to connect the 3rd treble to the other two that were banded together.

 

The only baits I don't use them on are the ploppers and jointed baits and I have to say this system is great. I think it does minimize hook rash, but doesn't eliminate it. I will say baits seem to get more hook rash in the water than from riding in the box.

 

As for putting them back in, that happens once the baits are dry, usually off the water. I have a shoebox that is half scent and half for letting cranks air dry without me stepping on them. I drilled a lot of holes on the side of the box and the lid to allow for air flow.

 

Still Going.

A-Jay

 

Been meaning to do this for so long, finally gonna do it. Just curious what size the rubber bands you use are, diameter? Silicone bands might last a lot longer, if they make them in the right size.

I'll defer to Ajay, but this is what I've used since my daughter started making bracelets in pre-school (she's in college now). A thousand of them costs about $5. Generally are about 5/8" in diameter. Can get at a craft store.

On 2/20/2021 at 7:12 AM, A-Jay said:

 

Still Going.

A-Jay

 

You may have finally over did the tackle porn pictures. I'm now having trouble with my internet, and the Bait Monkey is crying in the corner. After looking at all of these pictures I was wondering if you have you ever thought about fishing with jerkbaits? I here at times they can work well on small mouth bass. It might be worth trying a few different colors, before giving up on them.

I use plastic covers.

Seems to work fine.