G-Man
3/29/2015 5:36:00 PMI use a #2 sickle siwash hook with the mini cutplugs. First I attach a barrel swivel to the hook (be sure to heat the eye of the hook for 5 to 10 seconds before closing to prevent them from breaking) and then 4' to 5' of 12lb fluorocarbon leader to the other end of the swivel. Run a small bead down the line as a knot protector and then run it through the Brads. I use their roller swivel at the terminal end. One last tip, "the rubber bands" they supply with the minis are too big and have a tendency to fall off, especially when a fish is shaking the lure. Get some 1/8: ID colored latex tubing and cut small sections to use as bands. You can order it from Jann's Netcraft if you can't fond any at your local tackle supply store. As a bonus, you can buy colors that match or compliment your lure and they are uv reactive to boot!
mykee50
3/29/2015 10:41:00 PMDoes it matter what color Brad's you use? And where did you find pike minnow? Thanks, Mike
G-Man
3/30/2015 6:25:00 AMMy best producers are: Double Take, Honeydew and Mnt. Doo. Water Melon and Hot Pink also work well. Pike Minnow you'll need to catch yourself. In Lake Washington, spinners tipped with worm trolled slow and on/near the bottom work well.
G-Man
3/30/2015 9:11:00 AM100% sure. The pictures were taken after the fish had been bled, so the colors, including the throat slashes, are a bit washed out. Also the mouth was open, otherwise you'd see the jawline extending well past the eye. I haven't picked up a true rainbow while trolling in this lake for over a year.