Contests of the Day
1. Fish with KVD and win a boat.
2. Win an Ike-signed giant Rapala.
Tip of the Day
What to look for in hard-carved baits.
Good info:
> Tracking: Wooden baits have more tracking problems than plastic baits because of subtle differences in their shape and weight. Wooden baits require fine-tuning. Line ties must line up precisely with front and rear hook hangers and must remain tight to make the baits run true.
> Look for line ties that make fine-tuning easy. Line ties can be so embedded into plastic lips or positioned so snug to the noses of baits that even needle-nosed pliers can’t grasp them. Those with wire extensions may ream out the surrounding plastic creating loose play or run off in different directions. These baits may defy fine-tuning. Select wooden baits with extended line ties that are accessible to pliers.
> Lip: The lip of a wooden bait determines its wobble, depth and deflection capabilities. An improperly set lip adversely affects tracking, depth and fine-tuning. Quality baits use polycarbonate or circuit board lips instead of regular plastic lips.
> Don’t “shave†a lip with a pocket knife. Whittling can weaken, distort or crack a lip. Gently file a roughened lip after fishing. Repeat this process for a smooth lip that will cut through water.
> Hooks: Look for sturdy, snug-fitting wire hook hangers. Screw-in hangers are often soft and can break upon twisting the hook.
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