By Luke Wyrsta
Stickbaits are the hybrid lure of the GT and surface lure
scene today. Although the stickbait itself is nothing new in the general scheme
of things, their application is relatively new in this arena. The stickbait
usually ranges from 15-25cm in length bearing no cupped face – just a pure water
dynamic profile.
Arguably, some see these large torpedo shaped lures as a
revolution – and why not – GT anglers are at the forefront of some of the most
cutting-edge advancements & adoptions out there – whether it be the development
of a totally new technique from scratch or the foresight to apply old methods in
totally different environments to increase catch rates. And have stickbaits
increased catch rates – definitely. Some of the best Japanese GT anglers have
been developing prototypes of these lures during the last decade – the
transition of lure concepts from their freshwater origins to hardcore saltwater
couldn’t have come sooner.
Designed to dart erratically and bubble on or below the
surface, they are a very versatile lure, leaving a propeller like wake trail in
their wake when worked.
Stickbaits generally work best in calm to slight
conditions. Although very effective, they do have very little in-built action –
and at their best can be hard work to induce strikes (action isn’t as effective)
in heavier seas. Lighter floating stickbaits are best in calmer conditions,
whereas, heavier sinking versions can be used just about anywhere in between –
especially in the rough stuff.
How do I work a Stickbait?
Working stickbaits is a whole new ball game to what you
would already know about traditional surface lure fishing. Rods need to have
enough sensitivity in the tip yet still retain a strong backbone in order to
work a stickbait best – remember these are still the same fish you would be
targeting with other giant surface lures – they are big and strong!
There are several techniques used to work the different
configurations of stickbaits (floating and sinking).
Lighter, floating stickbaits can be worked in two ways:
1. Above surface - Involves working the stickbait quickly to imitate a
fleeing and frightened baitfish. This style is best achieved by positioning your
rod in a forward position, holding the rod tip high, occasional high side sweeps
and cranking as quickly as possible. Add some up and down movement with your
rod-holding hand with some occasional pauses thrown in.
2. Subsurface (within 1 metre) – by far the most productive and favoured
technique - point the rod tip down, long side sweeps will cause the stickbait to
dive and ‘zip’ for several metres before breaching the surface. ‘Follow through’
with the rod tip to get a good sweep. Consecutive rod snaps and jerks will also
give some good action to the lure. Pause for a moment as the stickbait bobs –
repeat action.
Sinking stickbaits as their name suggests, sink. Best
retrieval technique is to apply the subsurface technique of the floating
stickbait (2) however, the stickbait should sink to an ideal depth of around one
metre or to where fish are holding (not too deep because they have been known to
get snagged!). With some higher rod work, they can also be used to breach and
porpoise along the surface. Although not strictly a surface lure they are almost
certain to be found amongst some of the most popular surface lure fanatics
tackle boxes!
A range of quality stickbaits (top to bottom): Smith Runboh Junior, Orion BigFoot, Carpenter Livebait,
Nomad Dogtooth
A top of the range Orion stickbait made in France
Source: Brandon Khoo
Brandon Khoo with a quality GT taken on an Orion stickbait
Source: Brandon Khoo
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