So, I'm throwing a Deps Sakamata 7" Shad in sparkly gold tomorrow. The last time I threw it, I caught a smallie and lmb in two casts, but because it's sturdy as pudding, that was the end of that lure. I've got four rigged and ready to fish tomorrow. Since they're seven inches, fingers crossed for some big gals!  

 

I ordered some 5/0 EWG hooks for them, but they haven't arrived and I'm tired of waiting, so I'm going with 3/0. I also ordered some more of the Sakamata, from five inches to seven inches. It's a big lure and I was amazed that a smallie hit it, but being so soft, I think anything that hits will be reluctant to release it. We'll see and I'll let you know. 

On 9/3/2024 at 12:55 PM, ol'crickety said:

The last time I threw it, I caught a smallie and lmb in two casts, but because it's sturdy as pudding, that was the end of that lure.

Get some of this Mend-It Softbait Glue | Tackle Warehouse, and after you get home fix them almost endlessly. You wouldn't believe how many times I've salvaged baits over and over again.

 

+1 for mend-it

 

as a bonus, IMO really beat up plastics look more natural

also, upsizing your CPS spring if you are using that style hook. the default ones they come with are always one size too small