Jig hookset on long casts

[JStew]

I've been using a jig w/ a 5/0 flipping hook. On short casts w/ 20lb Seaguar InvisX you can cross their eyes on hookset. Have to punch the jig to get the hook loose from their jaws. Pitching/flipping - the jig works great.

On Sat., was fishing a tourney in clear water where casts were about 30 yards up onto a flat. Lost two solid fish, boated a third and the jig fell out in the boat when I got him out of the net. I know the problem was hook penetration due to line stretch on hookset. The jigs have a good Mustad hook and sharpness wasn't the issue.

Here's the question.... For long casts, do I change line from 20lb flouro to 50 lb. braid w/ a flouro leader to eliminate most of the stretch - or change the jigs to a fine wire 4/0 hook and back off the drag to keep big fish from straightening it out? I don't like the idea of having extra knots to fail - but I want to have faith the hook won't straighten out either. What think you guys?

[cmclairday2]

Unless you really horse the fish, you shouldn't straighten the hook with that much line out. I like going with straight flouro. If you get bit on the end of a long cast, you may reel down and set into him again when you get it turning your way.

[Fiddlefarter]

Sometimes I will go to more of a sweeping Carolina rig-type hookset when I have a lot of line out with a jig even if it's a flipping type jig and not a football. It seems to work pretty well. If your casting a jig the lighter wire hook may be the deal but if it were me I'd still try sweeping it into them. I usually don't use light wire because if I hang it once and straighten it a little I cut it off and tie on another one. I'm a tightwad

[Flipping57]

I doubt if hook penetration is the problem. 30 yds with 20# floro you can cross thier eyes. I think the problem is where the hook is in the fish's mouth. When flipping you are normaly above the fish when you set the hook and it ends up in the roof of the mouth. When making a long cast you set the hook to the side of the fish and it ends up in the side of the mouth and it has a lot of tender tissue there. It may be that with the heavy hook, line and rod you are tearing the tissue when you set the hook and then it is easy for him to shake it out. Larry Nixon says that on a long cast with a jig, when he gets a bite he just lifts the rod, reels up tight then sets the hook and plays the fish in rather than horsing it in.

[livetofish]

What rod are you using?

[zx200driver]

I like and agree with much of the advice already given. With flourocarbon and a sharp hook you should be able to get the penetration. It is related to the rod too. The last reply asked a great question. If it is a question of penetration, you may not be able move enough line with your hook set. I think most of the guys, me included, are assuming you are using your Flipping Stick, 7'6" Heavy or Medium Heavy, Fast Action. If you are using a short, less than 7', and/or "flimsy" rod, then penetration may be an issue. Try examining the fish you do land and check out where the fish was stuck and what damage was done. And of course, it is fishing and tinkering with your setup is half the fun. Try different combos. of rod, line, jig and hook. You will find what works for your style.

[fmoore]

Longer rod and/or lighter wire hook may be the solution. Although with a 30 yard cast you shouldn't be having much of a problem with any length rod. I think Flipping57 is right on with everything he said.