Jumping Fish

[major601]

I';ve been catching (hooking) some quality fish on crankbaits in about 10-15 feet of water. I keep them pressured but can feel when they are headed to the surface to jump and try to "shake the bait". Suggestions to keep them from coming unbuttoned would be much apprecisted. I'm losing too many this way!

[trav]

When I feel them coming to the top, drop the rod tip down to the water level, and sometimes just under the surface. I think that it gives bass less leverage to throw the hook. Hope this helps

[JayInGrapevine]

Disengage the spool, keep slight pressure on with your thumb but let them run. If they don't feel pressure they'll take off for the bottom again.

[Snyder Rods]

The suggestions above are great. A few more:

1) S-glass rods can be softer and help keep the hooks from ripping out.

2) Hooks like the Triple grips can help.

3) High stretch mono line such as an IGFA line, Stren Super Knot, Sufix Supreme, etc.

4) Bigger hooks and/or hooks with bigger barbs.

[Bronzeye]

Translated: Be one with the fish. Lie down on the boat deck, and its urge to jump will pass.

[Eric Walsh]

For me, I wish all the fish would jump, it's one of the most exciting aspects of the catch!

[KlingerNOK]

Lower your tip and put a lot of pressure on the fish so they can't shake any slack in your line.