Hollow-Body Rat

A weedless rat-shaped topwater dragged over pads and mats for oversized surface strikes.

Cast the hollow-body rat past overhanging grass or matted vegetation and let the ripples settle before beginning your retrieve. Use a series of slow, rhythmic twitches to create a 'swimming' action, pausing frequently to allow the lure to rest in open pockets of water. When a bass strikes, resist the urge to set the hook instantly; wait until you feel the weight of the fish against the line before driving the hook home.

• Trim the rubber skirt legs to different lengths to create a more erratic swimming motion.
• Ensure the hook points are slightly bent upward for better penetration in thick vegetation.
• Add a small rattle inside the body if you are fishing in muddy water to help the fish locate the lure.
• Always check that the body is properly seated against the hook eye to ensure a snag-free performance.