Focus on the Little One
When I received the prototypes of the Freestyle Hog, I was blown away. The new colours of the Urban Prey Slug were also interesting, but my eyes kept focusing on the small creature bait with its many arms. At first glance, it doesn’t fit into the modern image of a creature bait at all. It is filigree, small and not really aimed at targeting big fish. That’s why I think it is so great.
Standing at a lake all day just to get that one bite is not necessarily something I enjoy. I want action and to feel regular pulses of the rod. This is exactly what the Freestyle Hog 55 delivers. It has the advantages of a large creature bait but doesn’t frighten off the smaller perch. As I was fishing the perch were willing to fight for it with wild determination. At some points, I was surprised by the power of the perch in the mid-20s to the mid-30s size range. I think that would put a smile on anyone’s face.
The Freestyle Hog can be fished in many different ways. In my opinion, the secret weapon of the lure is its thin legs and the two twister arms. Even with slow guidance, the slightest water resistance is enough to move the lure seductively. The Dropshot and the Carolina rig, in particular, have proven to be especially successful. Even slight plucking causes the hogs legs to tremble as the lure sinks to the bottom in slow motion, which no perch can resist.
It must also be said that the hog doesn’t just catch perch. Even silverfish find it exciting. You can never be sure what is hanging on the other end of the line.
The hog is best rigged on a Gamakatsu offset hook size 1 or on a Freestyle Dropshot hook size 4. The first option is particularly exciting when there are snags or weeds in the water.
The 55mm Hog is a real weapon for finesse anglers. It can be used effectively on perch, chub, ide, trout and many other species. If you’re targetting larger fish, the Freestyle Hog is also available in 75mm and if that’s not enough, take a look at the new SPRO Insta Craw.
Remain healthy and as always tight lines
Florian