Since the launch of the Nano Alpha line of Gamakatsu, I've been experimenting with various soft plastic baits and rigging methods. In the early spring, I was using Texas rig worms with a 1/16oz bullet weight on the 2/0 round bend version on light spinning tackle. The hookup ratio was great; even with a limber rod and 8 lb Seaguar BasiX, the hook penetrated the bass's mouth nicely, thanks to the slick coating.
As the weather warmed up, I found the Nano Alpha line of Gamakatsu to be just as effective. I started branching out a little and tossing weightless Flukes on the 3/0-5/0 EWG hooks and also flipping a 1/4 oz Texas rigged tube on the 3/0. The 5/0 in the fluke allowed me to get it down in the water column a bit more, where I could work it a little faster. The Nano Alphas proved their worth, as I normally miss tons of fish with a fluke, but I've only had one come loose so far with these hooks.
One memorable day, I had a free morning on some warmer waters and spent the day tossing a Senko around boat docks. To my delight, I ended up catching 7 and I think I boated every bite. I was using a baitcaster spooled with 12 lb mono this day and had some more leverage. I even poked some of them right through the cheek plate, a testament to the Nano Alpha line's strength and precision.
I've increased the number of bites I put into the boat using these hooks. You don't have to swing nearly as hard for hook penetration, although you still can if you like to! I've also fished in numerous downpours, gotten the hooks all wet, and have yet to have one rust. That's pretty impressive for me, as I usually rust everything after fishing in the rain. Time will tell if they hold up to corrosion, but so far, so good.
