Pitching a Yozuri SD Crank-N-Dive

One of my favorite techniques is to “pitch” a crankbait. This technique takes some practice and care as it is very easy to end up with a treble hook buried in your hand. Use this technique with discretion!

The technique is to utilize the simple underhanded pitch that is more commonly used with worms and jigs, to cast a crankbait into places that a normal overhand cast will not allow. When first trying this technique, it is easier pinch the rear treble hook between your thumb and forefinger to help guide the bait into the structure. After getting the swinging motion of the pitch down, the accomplished fisherman should be able to pitch the bait into the cover without ever touching the bait.

I like to pitch these crankbaits into places that other anglers throw spinnerbaits to such as laydowns, stumps and brushpiles. Amazingly enough, these baits do not hang up too much, especially if you replace the treble hooks with Mustad Triple Grips or Gamakatsu EWGS.

The equipment that I use to pitch the crankbaits includes a Shimano Calcutta 250 reel, Shimano VCT-66M V-Rod and 12 or 16 pound Yozuri Hybrid line.

I use the Calcutta because it has a 5:1 retrieve ration, is smooth as silk when making the underhanded pitch and has a great drag. I like the V-Rod as it is as forgiving as fiberglass, but at half the weight and doesn't wear me down after 8 hours of casting. As for the Hybrid line, I can't say enough about it. It is very stretch resistant while maintaining great abrasion resistance . The smoke color of the line also helps to camouflage it in clear water.