How to Hook Swimbaits

Fishermen use swimbaits to imitate the prey fish that predator fish such as bass, muskies, northern pike and walleyes eat. Made of soft plastic and available in lengths ranging from 2 inches to more than 10 inches, anglers most often rig swimbaits on lead-head jigs. When hooked properly and then reeled through the water, swimbaits fool fish into thinking the baits are forage species such as shad and shiners.

Things You'll Need

  • Jig head
  • Plain hook
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hold in one hand the head of the jig. Hold the swimbait by the head and vertically in your other hand.

    • 2

      Insert the point of the hook into the middle of the head of the swimbait. The hook barb should face upward.

    • 3

      Thread the swimbait up the shank of the hook, making sure to keep the hook running through the middle of the bait.

    • 4

      Press the hook out of the swimbait body when the head of the bait is just below the head of the jig. The hook should emerge from the middle of the bait's back.

    • 5

      Push the head of the swimbait tight against the head of the jig.

    • 6

      Check the bait to make sure it is straight on the hook, as this ensures it swims properly. If it is not straight, remove the bait from the hook and thread it on again.