Spring 2018
®
VANDAM
TALKS
by Tyler Brinks
swimbait hooks
S
wimbait fishing has evolved to the point where
there are swimbaits that range from two-inches
to over one-foot long. There are all shapes, sizes, and actions available and that has created the need for
many specialized hooks to rig them.
Kevin VanDam, like most of the bass fishing world,
has incorporated swimbaits into his arsenal, because
they simply catch fish. Here, he breaks down how he
determines his rigging style for each.
PLENTY OF OPTIONS
“We have a lot of options for swimbaits and that means we have to decide on the best hook for the situation,” he began. “I adjust my swimbait hooks based on three main factors: line size, depth and the cover I am fishing around.”
For skipping under docks, KVD starts with hollow- bodied swimbaits, like the Strike King Shadalicious. He believes these skip well, especially with a weighted hook.
“I’ll rig up a 5.5” with a 5/0 Mustad Power Lock Plus Spring Keeper (91768S116),” he said. “I find myself using the 5/0 the most, but it does come in bigger and smaller sizes. I really like that hook because it has plenty of gap
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