Stick baits are easier for fish to throw. Period. If a bass is hooked on one hook or another, meaning front or back hook, the bait's weight and design causes leverage as the bait slings back and forth, especially if the fish's head is out of the water.

If you're using a line with quite a bit of stretch, and the rod isn't a fast action, that gives the fish even more leverage and slack. You're closer to the water in a kayak. If you feel the fish trying to surface, bury the rod in the water as deeply as you can.

You see pros doing it all the time. A bass that jumps or even gets its head above water is more likely to get off, no matter the bait. Stick baits are way more likely to be thrown if the fish clears the surface.

JR