Preferred landing method: net-swing-lip?

**Crappie ciller** · 09-18-2014, 08:00 AM

This time last year I lost so many big black crappie at the boat it drove me nuts. Seemed like just before I could get the net under one the jig would come out and another good fish would wave goodbye with its tail. I was fishing with 6 lb Viscous mono so was a little nervous about swinging them in but now I wonder if I would have been better off. I've also straightened a few hooks just enuf to let them off so I know I'm doing something wrong here. I lose very few vertical jigging but when I cast and drag I bet I lose one out of every 3-4 good fish. I need to devise a new strategy before I get back on the water next February. How do you guys land a fish that runs 1.5 lbs or so? I know there's a lot of variables here but maybe you can teach me something I need to know. Thanks!

**Redge** · 09-18-2014, 08:36 AM

CC I always swing them in the boat. Only time a net is on the boat is if we are silly enough to be fishing a tournament. I do use braid exclusively. I think when you get back, you need to try the other kind of weed/brush guards and your problem will be in the past!!

**Ranger09** · 09-18-2014, 08:54 AM

Hook set is #1. You have downsized your tackle and you still have to set the hook. #2 is no small hooks....hate small hooks. I will never tie on a jig that has a smaller hook than a #2. Throw all the smaller jigs with small hooks into deep water. #3 is use a net or lip all bigger fish over 2lb. An Ego Net with telescoping handle works great and will extend long enough for spider rigging as well.......George jerk man you will not break your rod and throw those baby hooks away. Lol. ......Ranger

**Crappie ciller** · 09-18-2014, 07:45 PM

I figured I would get some hook set counsel- lol- but my hook set is already so violent that it rocks the boat enuf to throw small children and skinny men overboard! But the small hook advice is golden and I will implement it ASAP. I look forward to netting all fish over 2 lbs which has not been a problem at all so far for reasons to obvious and embarrassing to mention. I always cast and drag with a stick guard covering my hook point and that's when I lose fish at the boat. I hate to admit it but most often it looks like a slab will just open his mouth and maybe he was never really hooked at all despite my awesome hookset. I have been reading about the Timmy Tom type weed guards and have looked forward to trying them out as they sure look easier to use. Is that the "other kind of weed/brush guards" that you are referring to Redge? Thanks for the help guys. If studying the art helps I should be an amazing crappie catcher when I get home!

**Redge** · 09-18-2014, 07:50 PM

Yes CC the Timmy Tom version. You do remember what it looks like when Mark sets the hook don't you?! Enough said!

**Crappie ciller** · 09-18-2014, 08:27 PM

Yes CC the Timmy Tom version. You do remember what it looks like when Mark sets the hook don't you?! Enough said![/QUOTE]

I spent more time watching Mark than my own line. I was always afraid that his next hook set might take my ear off!

**Redge** · 09-18-2014, 08:52 PM

He put the fish in the boat though didn't he!! You gotta pay attention, watching your line is the #1 rule! LOL

**Crappie ciller** · 09-18-2014, 09:13 PM

I was always surprised that his hook set alone didn't swing them into the boat but yeah, Mark has kinda figured it out which is a massive understatement!

**rdjj71m** · 09-19-2014, 06:00 AM

I have not witnessed the proper Ranger hook set, but I've been told if it's 1 lb. or less "DUCK" or take a baseball glove with you and catch it on the fly. LOL

**fishn_a_ledge** · 09-19-2014, 11:43 AM

what does this silly question mean to you CC. When you are with me, you count it on the clicker whether it hits the deck or not. "They all count one" is what you tell me. thats why i bring MY own clicker.

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