I have been using chatterbaits with great success this year. But I seem to lose alot while casting or setting the hook. I am using 17# test line but have lost 4 in the past two trips. Any advice?

Is your line breaking at the knot or above the knot?  If the knot itself is breaking then you could probably add a little super glue to it to add support and strength to the knot.  If the blade is cutting up your line, then it might be a good idea to change to a more abrasion-resistant line.

To get the maximum vibration, use braided line. This was suggested by Rick Morris during last year's Bassmasters Classic. 50# braid should solve your problem assuming you tie a good knot.

Do you have these problems only with Chatterbaits? Are you tying to the snap that comes with it? What kind of knot? You can go to a 50# braid like was suggested, but that won't solve the immediate problem, because it shouldn't be occurring, not with 17# test or 10# test.

Thanks for the input!!

MARTY:

Yeah, I am tying an improved clinch knot to the snap. I do not experience this problem with anything else I throw.

I thought maybe it was something inherent with these baits. I had it happen on Strike Kings pure poison and the original chatterbait.

I will try a palomar knot next time out and see if that helps.

I was working them around hydrilla both times.