What am I doing wrong?

[Wormy]

Ok guys and gals, I have been using some of the new techniques I have read you all talking about and need some help.

This past Saturday I decided to throw a Fluke. I rigged it weightless just like everyone says to with a ball bearing swivel about 10-12 inches up from the hook. I missed a total of 4 fish before got mad and put it away. I would feel the fish pull and when I set the hook, it pulled right out of their mouth.

Whats up with that?

For the hook I was using a 2/0 EWG Gamakatsu hook. Is this big enough for them to be able to pinch the lure down and expose the tip?

I would really appreciate some advice on this.

[Muddpuppy]

We usually use a 3/0 or 4/0 hook.

[roadwarrior]

Here's my take:

Brand: Slug-Go

Hook: Gamakatsu #4/0, Round Bend Offset Shank Hook

Line: Yo-Zuri Hybrid, 6 lb test

Knot: Palomar knot, direct tie, no swivel

Rod & reel: Fenwick Techna AVS70MM, Shimano Sustain

Technique: Twitch the fluke a couple of times, let it sit, repeat

Hookset: Set the hook AFTER the fish has loaded up on the rod. A moderate action rod will help prevent pulling the hook away and out of the fish's mouth.

I think what's happening to you is that you are attempting to set the hook on the initial strike and simply pulling the lure away from the fish.

[playmaker47]

Try using a 4/0 hook instead of a 2/0, also texpose the hook, if you dont know what that is, it means to push the hook all the way through the top of the fluke, and then to stick it back in just a little bit so that it is easier to set the hook. also try using a superline like Berkley Ironsilk or Fireline because these have less stretch than mono and will help with the hook sets. Also dont set the hook imediatly, wait a few seconds after the fish takes it before you set the hook.

[bassin4life]

Try workin on setting the hook in different directions..

[Wormy]

Excellent ideas guys, Thanks... I really thought that I was waiting long enough but maybe I wasn't. It is hard to see your line moving and not pull. And yes I had the hook texposed like you mentioned playmaker47.

Unfortunately RW, the size fish that was striking and the type cover I was in, 6 lb test line would be a poor choice. Now if I were on totally open water, I would agree 100%. Additionally, I think you all nailed it, I am not hesitating enough and that a more limber rod and larger hook will help. Thanks guys...

[roadwarrior]

Gotcha Wormy, We need to make adjustments for different situations. My post was for the general set-up. I fish light line under most conditions, lily pads would be a major exception and that's a type of cover where flukes excel.

[Nick_Barr]

Let the fish take the bait for a little bit then set the hook.

[tireman]

:-/And some days, they just will not take in and just have the tail. ???

[Gatorbassman]

How are you putting the hook in the Fluke? I put the hook all the way through the fluke then I skin the point back into the fluke be careful to keep the Fluke straight. Make sure you are hooking the fluke rite side up. I mean after the hook is put through the nose of the bait it should enter the Fluke between the two flaps and come out the flat top part.

[Wormy]

I am doing all the things you are saying except for the longer hesistation on the strike and not using the right size hook like a 4/0 EWG. I can already see that this is going to catch me a lot of fish over the next month or so during the spawn, especially in the type cover I fish. I am already liking what I am seeing, I just got frustrated when I didn't get the hookset and put it down knowing I was doing something wrong. THAT"S why I called you guys to the rescue. I will be sure and take a camera with me next time to show you some of these good old Arkansas bucketmouths... Thanks guys, REALLY... I can see the potential this lure has and having never really fished one before now, I'm looking forward to my next outing...  

[roadwarrior]

My recommendation is NOT an EWG, rather the Round Bend Offset Shank Hook which has a straight shaft. With the hook exposed, or partially exposed, you DON'T have to drive the hook through the fluke. I think it works better.