The Ultimate Guide To Hoochies: From Leader Test To Custom Molds
If you're a serious angler looking to maximize your success with hoochies, you've come to the right place. Whether you're targeting salmon, kokanee, or other species, understanding the nuances of hoochie fishing can dramatically improve your catch rate. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into everything from leader selection to custom mold creation, helping you become a true hoochie fishing expert.
The Impact of Leader Test on Hoochie Action
I have read that using a heavier test leader will give more action to the hoochie from the dodger. This is absolutely correct! The leader test you choose directly affects how your hoochie moves through the water. A heavier leader (like 30-40lb test) creates more resistance, which translates to increased action as your dodger moves. This extra movement can be crucial when fish are being finicky or when you're fishing in murky water where extra vibration helps attract attention.
Most experienced anglers recommend using a 20-30lb test leader for optimal performance. The sweet spot often depends on your target species - salmon anglers might prefer the heavier end of that range, while kokanee fishermen typically opt for lighter leaders. The key is finding the balance between action and stealth.
What test do you use? This question comes up frequently in fishing forums and for good reason. Your leader test should be matched to your fishing conditions. In clear water with pressured fish, you might drop down to 12-15lb test to maintain a natural presentation. In rough conditions or when targeting larger fish, beefing up to 40lb test provides the durability you need without sacrificing too much action.
Leader Attachment Methods for Maximum Effectiveness
Also, when attaching to the dodger, what method do you use? A loop. The loop knot is indeed the preferred method for connecting your leader to a dodger. This connection allows for free movement and prevents line twist, which can be a major problem when trolling with hoochies and dodgers. The loop should be small enough to prevent your hoochie from tangling but large enough to allow natural movement.
The double surgeon's loop is a popular choice among anglers because it's strong and relatively easy to tie. Some fishermen prefer the perfection loop for its cleaner profile and consistent size. Whichever method you choose, make sure to test your connection before heading out on the water - a failed knot means a lost fish.
Creating Custom Hoochie Molds: A DIY Approach
I'm interested in pouring my own molds and I can't seem to find any squid/octopus/hoochie type injection molds. This is a common frustration for DIY fishing tackle enthusiasts. The market for specialized hoochie molds is surprisingly limited, which explains why many anglers turn to alternative solutions.
The closest thing I can find is crappie jig molds. While not perfect, crappie jig molds can actually work quite well for creating custom hoochies with some modification. The key is finding molds with the right shape and size to mimic the natural swimming action of squid or octopus. Some creative anglers have even repurposed soft plastic worm molds by cutting and reshaping them into hoochie-like profiles.
For those serious about creating their own hoochies, consider investing in silicone mold-making kits. These allow you to create custom molds from existing hoochies or even design your own unique shapes. The process involves creating a master model, making a mold from silicone, and then using that mold to cast your own soft plastic hoochies.
The Legacy of the Scotty Hoochie Devil
I started using a lure 10 or 12 years ago made by Scotty called a hoochie devil. This innovative lure revolutionized hoochie fishing by adding a plastic bill that imparted action to the hoochie, making it incredibly effective for salmon fishing. The hoochie devil worked like an apex lure, combining the enticing action of a plug with the versatility of a hoochie.
They worked great, then disappeared. The discontinuation of the hoochie devil left many anglers searching for alternatives. Fortunately, the concept has been revived by other manufacturers who recognized the value of this design. Modern versions often incorporate improved materials and more durable construction while maintaining the action that made the original so effective.
The Scotty hoochie devil is a blade with a hoochie attached and works like an apex. This description perfectly captures the essence of why these lures were so successful. The blade creates the same side-to-side action as an apex or plug, while the hoochie provides the soft, undulating movement that triggers strikes from predatory fish. If you can find vintage hoochie devils or modern equivalents, they're definitely worth adding to your tackle collection.
Evaluating Commercial Hoochie Options
So I've bought a few different brands of hoochies now. The commercial hoochie market offers a dizzying array of options, from budget-friendly bulk packs to premium hand-tied offerings. Each brand brings something different to the table, whether it's unique color patterns, specialized materials, or innovative designs.
Some I like, but they seem expensive. Premium hoochies often justify their higher price through superior materials and construction. High-end options typically feature UV-enhanced materials, glow-in-the-dark components, and hand-painted details that can make a significant difference in low-light conditions. However, the price difference between budget and premium hoochies isn't always reflected in catch rates.
Some are garbage and are still expensive. Unfortunately, the market does contain its share of overpriced, underperforming products. Common issues include poor quality control, materials that deteriorate quickly in saltwater, and designs that don't mimic natural prey effectively. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from local anglers can help you avoid these disappointing purchases.
On the bright side, they do seem to last a long. One advantage of quality hoochies is their durability. Unlike soft plastic swimbaits that can tear after a few fish, well-made hoochies can withstand multiple catches and seasons of use. This longevity helps offset the initial investment, especially for anglers who fish frequently.
Determining the Optimal Hoochie Length
So which length hoochie does everyone think is the best? Hoochie length preferences vary by target species and fishing conditions, but there are some general guidelines that can help you choose. The right length can mean the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed.
The new mini hoochies are barely 1 1/2 inches so I guess the standard is about 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 inches long and then some kokanee. This assessment is spot-on. Mini hoochies in the 1 1/2-inch range are perfect for kokanee and other small salmonids that feed primarily on tiny baitfish and zooplankton. The standard 2 1/4 to 2 1/2-inch size is versatile and effective for most salmon species, while larger hoochies up to 4 inches can be deadly for trophy chinook and coho.
The new mini hoochies are barely 1 1/2 inches so I guess the standard is about 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 inches long and then some kokanee. This repetition emphasizes an important point - size matters when it comes to hoochies. Matching your hoochie size to the prevalent baitfish in your fishing area can dramatically improve your success rate. During periods when small baitfish are abundant, downsizing to mini hoochies can outperform larger offerings.
Exploring Alternative Hoochie Options
With crappie tubes at a buck for a pack of 10, do you guys use a lot of them in your arsenal? Crappie tubes represent an excellent budget alternative to traditional hoochies. Their tubular shape and action in the water make them surprisingly effective substitutes, especially when you need to cover a lot of water or are fishing in snag-prone areas where losing tackle is inevitable.
I figured they are essentially a RGT tube. You're absolutely right - crappie tubes and hoochies share many similarities in design and action. The main differences lie in the specific materials used and the color patterns available. Many crappie tubes feature vibrant colors and metal flake finishes that can be incredibly effective for attracting fish, sometimes even outperforming traditional hoochie colors.
I've been seeing a lot of great colors and metal flake finishes. The evolution of soft plastic technology has brought exciting new options to the market. Metal flake finishes create flash and attraction that can be particularly effective in sunny conditions or when fishing deeper water. UV-reactive colors have also become popular, providing visibility in low-light conditions that traditional colors can't match.
Leader Length Considerations with Dodgers
Hey guys, I'm struggling with how long a leader should be when used with a 5.5 dodger while trolling. Leader length is a critical factor that many anglers overlook. With a 5.5-inch dodger, the ideal leader length typically falls between 12 and 18 inches. This range allows the dodger to impart its characteristic side-to-side action to the hoochie without restricting movement or creating tangles.
Shorter leaders (12-15 inches) create more aggressive action and work well when fish are active or when you're targeting species like coho that respond to faster presentations. Longer leaders (16-18 inches) produce a more subtle action that can be crucial when fish are pressured or in clear water conditions.
Hoochies beads and blades any help would be greatly appreciated. Adding beads and blades to your hoochie setup can enhance attraction through added flash and vibration. Small plastic beads in contrasting colors can create hot spots that draw fish attention, while spinner blades add flash and vibration that can trigger reaction strikes. The key is balancing attraction with a natural presentation - too much hardware can make your offering look unnatural.
Understanding Hoochie Basics
Hoochie is a squid looking tube of many different colors. At its core, a hoochie is a simple yet effective lure design that mimics squid or other soft-bodied prey. The tubular shape creates an undulating action in the water that predatory fish find irresistible. The variety of colors available allows anglers to match local baitfish or experiment with attractor patterns.
Go to google click on image and type in hoochie lure (make sure to add the lure part or you will get a lot of the other kind of hoochie). This practical tip highlights the importance of visual reference when selecting hoochies. Seeing the wide variety of available patterns and sizes can help you make informed decisions about which hoochies to add to your collection. Pay attention to the color combinations and finishes that seem to appear most frequently - these often represent proven patterns that catch fish consistently.
I've been seeing a lot of great colors and metal flake. The trend toward more sophisticated color patterns and finishes reflects the ongoing evolution of hoochie design. Modern manufacturing techniques allow for incredibly detailed and realistic finishes that can make the difference between a follow and a committed strike. Don't be afraid to experiment with unconventional colors - sometimes the brightest, most unnatural-looking hoochies are the ones that produce the best results.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Hoochie Fishing
Hoochie fishing is both an art and a science, combining the right equipment, techniques, and local knowledge to consistently catch fish. Whether you're a beginner just starting to explore the world of hoochies or a seasoned angler looking to refine your approach, understanding the nuances of leader selection, custom mold creation, and presentation can elevate your fishing game.
The beauty of hoochie fishing lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. From the basic squid imitation to sophisticated custom creations, hoochies continue to prove their worth as one of the most versatile and productive lures in any angler's tackle box. By experimenting with different sizes, colors, and rigging methods, you'll discover the perfect combination that works for your local waters and target species.
Remember that fishing is ultimately about enjoyment and the thrill of the catch. Don't be afraid to try new approaches, whether that means pouring your own custom molds, experimenting with alternative materials like crappie tubes, or fine-tuning your leader lengths and test. The knowledge and experience you gain along the way will make you a more versatile and successful angler, ready to tackle any fishing challenge that comes your way.
