Gamakatsu has long been known for their hooks and this year they are introducing a few new products to their catalog. The first is the Mini Heavy Cover Hook which is a medium wire hook that has a built in bait keeper designed for finesse applications in and around cover. They will be available in several sizes to address a wide range of baits that the angler might want to throw.
Next is the Saiko Swivel Dropshot system. This hook is designed specifically for drop-shotting with the idea to eliminate the problem of line twist that can crop up when using the standard drop-shot rig. This system uses a swivel on top of the hook with another swivel below it that has a clip attached to it. Often when you are drop-shotting, the rig can become tangled as you’re playing and landing the fish. With this set-up, you simply detach the line tied to your weight, untangle it then reattach it through the clip.
Gamakatsu also introduces a new wacky jig head called the Saiko Wacky Jig Head. This product utilizes a split tungsten weed guard that will allow you to fish the wacky rig in and around cover. Using the tungsten means that it will not be subject to breakage like some other materials and if bent, can be bent back into its original position.
Another new product is the Super Heavy Cover Flippin’ hook. This hook is made from very heavy wire with a worm collar as well as a larger barb. Anglers who enjoy flippin’ heavy slop should appreciate the stoutness of these hooks. They are designed to be used with braid in large sizes.
For drop-shotting, they are introducing a new Split Shot Hook the comes standard with a weed guard for fishing in the vegetation. These hooks will be available in several of the most popular sizes for using those diminutive baits that we tend to use for this technique.
The rest of Gamakatsu’s line-up will carry over as is.
See ya’ on the water …