Punching thick vegetation for big bass is an artform requiring very specific tackle that will have an impact on how much success anglers experience. We’ve assembled a list of products that cover every aspect of jerking giant bass from the mats with a punch-bait rig.
Line
Spectra HT fiber – exclusive to PowerPro for use in braided fishing line – allows for 4 carrier construction contributing to less friction when it goes through guides. Anglers will notice the extra casting distance when using smaller, lighter lures, or when pitching jigs at docks and brush piles.
PowerPro Maxcuatro braid – awarded ‘Best Fishing Line’ honors at the 2015 ICAST Show – is offered in two colors – Moss Green primarily for freshwater situations, and High-Vis Yellow for both fresh and select saltwater fishing use. The original 50-, 65-, 80- and 100-pound test Maxcuatro braid is offered on 150, 500, 1500 and 3000-yard spools.
As with other PowerPro braided fishing line, Maxcuatro is up to eight-times more sensitive and has minimal stretch when compared to nylon and fluorocarbon fishing lines. Anglers feel even the lightest strikes, allowing them to make quick, solid hookset – all in hopes of catching more fish.
Available in 50- and 65-pound tests at $34.99 and 80- to 100-pound tests at $39.99
Rod
St. Croix’s Legend Tournament Bass Punchin’ rod is one serious stick. Measuring seven feet, 11 inches with a heavy power and moderate fast action, this rod was built to hoist big bass through the thick stuff. It features St. Croix’s Integrated Poly Curve tooling technology, Advanced Reinforcing Technology (ART), high modulus-high-strain SCIV graphite for strength and durability, Fuji K-Series Concept Tangle Free guides, Fuji SK2 split reel seat and so much more backed by St. Croix’s renowned lifetime limited warranty and superstar customer service.
$290
Reel
Abu Garcia’s Revo Beast is a punch-bait angler’s best friend. This hig-power, sexy reel will withstand the abuse that commonly comes with setting the hook in a giant bass. Engineered for strength from the ground up, the Beast features titanium coated sideplates, 7 stainless steel HPCR bearings + 1 roller bearing as well as an X-Cräftic alloy frame for increased durability and corrosion resistance. Get the upper hand on hard fighting fish with the extended bent handle and round EVA power knob.
$349.95
Meat
When it comes to the “meat” portion of your punch rig, there are soft plastics that are specifically designed for the technique. Much like tungsten weights, a slender profile is important, but it’s the most visible part of the rig, so it must also be attractive. Missile Bait’s D Stroyer and Baby D Stroyer are a grass-mat punching fanatic’s dream plastic. After easily slipping through the mat, the bait’s numerous appendages bring life to the bait, and draw in hungry bass for a closer look—and a free meal. Each package comes with 6 baits per bag and the D Stroyer is available in nine mouthwatering colors.
$5.39 per package.
Weights
Tungsten nose weights have become a key component to adequately punching thick grass mats. More weight in a compact package when compared to lead, tungsten’s smaller profile make penetrating thick vegetation a snap, while reducing hang-ups at the same time. Depending on the density of the mat, Bullet Weights offers tungsten nose weights from 1/4- to 1 1/2-ounce, and they are available in natural, black and green-pumpkin color options.
$5.99 – $10.99
Hook
Mustad’s Grip Pin Max 3X Punch hooks are the business end to a punch rig; they must be heavy duty and durable. Hooksets are usually violent, and the last thing you want to worry about is a busted hook. Not with Mustad’s Grip Pin Max 3X, which deliver the beef and have what it takes to hoist giant bass out of the slop. The hooks come standard with the company’s Ultra Point, which quickly and effectively penetrates the plastic dressing and into the fish’s mouth. The Grip Pin bait keeper holds the bait in place reducing the need for constant adjustment. Available in 2/0 through 5/0 sizes.
$5.99
Bobber Stops
While Eagle Claw Bobber Stops were originally created for bobbers, innovative bass anglers have implemented bobber stops into their punch rigs—and for good reason. To effectively fish the dense grass mats, it’s imperative for the entire rig to remain compact and together as it slides through the cover. Placing a bobber stop in front of the nose weight will keep it in place, and placing a second one between the weight and hook will protect the knot. They’re cheap, durable and easy to install.
$1.69
Skirt
The key to getting your punch rig noticed is body. There are times when just a slab of meat on a hook will get it done, but when a little added volume is necessary the KO Punch Skirts from Gambler are the ticket. Simply rig it between the nose weight and the hook, and the offering just became a bigger mouthful for a big bass lurking beneath a grass mat. gambler-lures.com
$5.99
