How to Use Sinking Stickbaits for Topwater Fishing

Introduction

Topwater fishing for kingfish and tuna is an adrenaline-pumping experience, and while floating stickbaits often steal the show, their sinking counterparts offer a unique set of advantages that can significantly increase your success with stickbaiting. In this blog post, we'll explore the exciting world of sinking stickbaits, uncover their benefits, and equip you with the knowledge to effectively target those hard-hitting kingfish.

Why Choose a Sinking Stickbait?

Sinking stickbaits bring a different dimension to topwater fishing, allowing you to explore deeper waters and present your lure in a way that mimics the behaviour of fleeing baitfish. Here's why you should consider adding them to your tackle box:

• Casting Distance: Compared to floating stickbaits of the same weight, sinking stickbaits cast further, enabling you to cover more ground and reach distant kingfish hotspots.
• Wind and Wave Resistance: Battling strong winds and choppy waters? Sinking stickbaits cut through the surface disturbance, maintaining a more consistent and enticing action.
• Depth Control: Chase those kingfish into the water column! Sinking stickbaits allow you to target different depths, making them incredibly versatile in various fishing scenarios.
• Ease of Use: Whether you prefer a shore jigging rod or a dedicated topwater rod, sinking stickbaits can be effectively handled with both.

Effective Retrieval Techniques

To maximize your chances of hooking up, try these proven retrieval methods:

• Continuous Retrieve: This steady retrieve creates a consistent swimming action that mimics a fleeing baitfish. Experiment with different speeds to find what works best on the day.
• Retrieve and Short Pulse: Add some variation to your retrieve by incorporating short pauses or twitches. This erratic action can trigger aggressive strikes from kingfish.
• Fast Retrieve: When kingfish are actively feeding, a fast retrieve can create a sense of urgency and entice them to strike.

Why "Walk the Dog" Doesn't Work Well. While the "walk the dog" technique is popular with floating stickbaits, it's not recommended for sinking models. Here's why:

• Snagging Hazards: In shallow water, the sinking stickbait can quickly descend and snag on underwater structures.
• Slack Line Woes: The "walk the dog" retrieve creates slack in the line, making it difficult to set the hook effectively, especially in saltwater environments where a solid side sweep is crucial.

Gearing Up for Success