For Northeast saltwater anglers, line-through swimbaits may seem like a novel technique. These lures are solid-bodied soft plastics featuring a built-in channel for threading fishing line. After threading the line through the lure, it is tied to a hook, which is then tucked back into the bait.
This unique setup provides two key benefits. First, when a fish is hooked, the soft plastic slides up the line, protecting the lure from damage. This is especially advantageous when using high-end swimbaits, often costing $20 to $100, which can otherwise suffer from the wear and tear inflicted by aggressive fish like pickerel or other bycatch.
Second, the separation of the bait from the hook reduces the leverage fish have when attempting to dislodge the hook. For species known for their acrobatic tendencies, such as snook, tarpon, or largemouth bass, this design significantly improves the chances of landing hooked fish.
The effectiveness and practicality of line-through swimbaits make them a valuable addition to any angler’s arsenal, regardless of fishing location or target species.
Image/Source: OnTheWater
