Rods, reels and hooks. All are important. Let's talk knots. Throwing heavy DDs play havoc on your line and especially at the knot. Consider retying ever so often. I say this because many guys use speed clips on their crank'n stick to change lures quickly. If you don't, then change out the split rings on your baits with oval ones. This will reduce the possibility of you inadvertently tying at the inner section where the split on the ring meets. This will wear and snap your line. Many, already know this, but thought to mention it anyway. Also, consider a which knot you use for the type line you're using. I don't like a Palomar for everything and especially not fot my cranking. I prefer the SanDiego Jam knot. Point is check your line often and retire when needed.

Especially when they're still down, better safe than sorry....


.....and listen to The Manther...

Thanks again guys, I'm comfortable with the Dobyns rod I've been throwing cranks with. I haven't had any snap the line (knock on wood)It's just been spitting the hooks that's been the issue. I'm heading to Falcon in two weeks and deep cranks will definitely be in play so I'll be applying some of these tips. Thanks again and I'll report back after the trip.

If you want to keep more giants hooked up on big body type cranks throw those KVD hooks in the trash. Put you an Gama EWG on the back and a quality round bend on the front. Learn the difference in the feel of a bite and structure/cover and that will get you better hookups.

What size short-shank hooks are you putting on?

You can also cut the down point of the front hook making it more snag resistant.

Medium action fiberglass rod and mono line with some stretch. 15# Big Game works for me. Too stiff a rod with line having little or no stretch can result in jerking the bait out of their mouths. Check hook sharpness often.

KVD hooks, like Fouzman suggested. Limber rod, with a good backbone about halfway down, 15# line, loosen the drag after you get the fish on, take your time... ever notice how you dont lose fish while practicing but you do in the tourney... it's cause you were taking your time in practice...

The thing about crank baits is there is no guarantee she swallowed it. If the CB is hanging out its mouth, it could get snagged on the wood if you let the fish get to cover. Take your time, but understand the water.

Look good

Still thinking about that dink from fayette?

I THINK THE KVD TRIPLE GRIPS ARE A GAME CHANGER. LOST TWO DD'S THIS YEAR AT CHOKE ON BACK-TO-BACK TRIPS AND A COUPLE OTHER NICE FISH. SWITCHED TO THE KVD HOOKS ON MY DD-22'S AND XD-6'S AND DIDN'T LOSE ANOTHER FISH ALL YEAR OFF OF A CRANKBAIT. HOOKS WERE THE ONLY DIFFERENCE.

As Thad said, its a drag thing for me.In open water a 1 lber can pull my drag.Much more important IMHO than line,hooks or rod.

What size KVD hooks do you put on the XD 6's & DD22 's?

Reel gear ratio also can play a part. You need to be able to catch up to the fish and keep the line tight. Floro will also help you out. A rod that loads up throughout the entire thing will also help. One size larger trebles are the final step. I still like round bend over EWG.