Wakebait/Rat Hook and Line Size Concerns/Tips

[DEPS_250]

I have been experimenting with down sizing my line size and hook size on all sorts of baits in order to get more action and therefore make my baits look way more natural in order to get more bites from pressured fish. On the other hand, does a big line size and hook size not matter much on certain bait styles? Say for example, something like a 2-3oz wakebait/rat?

 

With that said, most wakebaits/rats create so much resistance when coming through the water that it usually means a very exaggerated action with a large amount of disturbance and commotion in the water. I would assume the very exaggerated action and the large amount of resistance, disturbance and commotion actually precedes any variable/difference the line size and hook size might have on the action of the bait right?

 

Therefore, using a large line size and hook size on something like a 2-3oz wakebait/rat, should not hinder you from getting less bites right? I mean, the action of a wakebait/rat is so pronounced, loud and brash, that I would assume the chances of getting bit will never be compromised by something like a large line size and hook size affecting the baits action. 

 

In this case, it would actually be better to go with the higher line/larger hooks versus the lower line/smaller hooks since this style of bait is usually thrown around some heavy cover for bigger than average fish and therefore the 'extra insurance' of the bigger line and hooks is warranted, correct? 

[BayouSlide]

I found casting a rat to be like tossing a brick...with the expected super splash if you're fishing still water 😉.

 

20# Sunline Sniper line on my heavy swimbait rod would be the minimum I would consider. You're right, heavier line size shouldn't detract from this lure's action.

[VolFan]

With something like the Cl8 Baby Possum, I keep the stock hooks and fish it on 15 or 17 lb CXX. I have used 20 lb but just didn’t feel like it was needed. The stock hooks are large and high quality and in no way dampen the action of the bait. I think them clicking against the side of the bait may even enhance it. So my summary opinion would be to leave baits that size alone - they are not finesse applications where super detail matters (arguably). They are displacement draws. 

[NittyGrittyBoy]

#25 big game is what I use on big baits like rats, wake shads, bull shads, etc..

 

Don't over think it, it's not a finesse application, if #25 is too much, go to #20. No way I'd go with smaller hooks, most of the bigger baits have been tested with the hooks they come with not to hinder the action. 

 

With big sharp trebles I want some stretch and strength. Line size will not affect the baits action in your scenario.