Sale Items

Why Buy the Yamamoto Scope Shad?

Forward-facing sonar has changed bass fishing forever — and the Yamamoto Scope Shad was built to keep up. Its slender, hydrodynamic shad profile is engineered to be seen and eaten by fish you're watching in real time on your screen. When you spot a bass hovering at 30 feet and drop the Scope Shad right in front of its nose, you'll understand why this bait was purpose-built for the modern FFS angler. Available in 3", 3.5", and 4" sizes across 18 colors. 10 per pack at $4.49.

Main Use & Benefit

A slender-profile finesse swimbait designed specifically for forward-facing sonar (FFS) presentations — its hydrodynamic shad silhouette, subtle tail kick, and neutral buoyancy make it deadly on drop shot, shaky head, and finesse swimbait rigs for bass watching suspended or structure-oriented fish in real time.

Problem It Solves

Standard soft plastics weren't designed with FFS in mind — their profiles, fall rates, and action don't translate well when fish are watching a bait approach from a distance on sonar. The Scope Shad's slender shad silhouette and natural fall rate are optimized for FFS visibility and triggering strikes from fish you can see on screen, at any depth.

Advantages

• ✅ Purpose-built for forward-facing sonar — slender profile reads clearly on FFS screens
• ✅ Natural shad silhouette triggers strikes from fish watching the bait approach
• ✅ Three sizes (3", 3.5", 4") to match the hatch at any depth or forage size
• ✅ 18 color options — natural forage to high-vis reaction shades
• ✅ Yamamoto premium soft plastic formula — lifelike action, durable material
• ✅ 10 per pack at $4.49 — excellent value for a specialty FFS bait
• ⚠️ Specialty FFS/finesse bait — not designed for power fishing, heavy cover, or reaction presentations

When to Choose It

Reach for the Scope Shad when you're running forward-facing sonar and need a bait that reads clearly on screen and triggers strikes from fish you can see. It's equally effective as a traditional drop shot or shaky head bait in clear water and deep structure situations where a slender shad profile outperforms bulkier soft plastics.

Best Fishing Techniques

• Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) Drop Shot — the primary application; nose-hook on a #1 or #2 hook, 12–24" above the weight; watch the bait on screen and trigger strikes from fish you can see in real time
• Traditional Drop Shot — deadly on suspended fish and deep structure without FFS; subtle tail kick triggers finicky bass on the shake
• Shaky Head — thread onto a 3/16–1/4 oz shaky head for a stand-up presentation on hard bottom; the slender profile reads naturally on FFS
• Finesse Swimbait / Underspin — swim on a light underspin or swimbait head for a horizontal baitfish presentation through open water and over structure
• Ned Rig — compact presentation on hard bottom for finicky fish in clear water

Best Conditions

• Clear to lightly stained water where FFS is most effective (visibility 3ft+)
• Deep water (15–50ft) where FFS excels at locating suspended and structure-oriented fish
• Post-frontal and slow-bite conditions when finesse is the only answer
• Highland reservoirs, clear natural lakes, and deep impoundments
• Summer and fall when bass push to deeper structure and baitfish schools

Best For

Key Features

• Slender shad profile — hydrodynamic silhouette optimized for FFS visibility and natural fall
• Three sizes: 3", 3.5", 4" — match the hatch at any depth or forage size
• 18 color options — natural forage shades to high-vis reaction colors
• Yamamoto premium soft plastic formula — lifelike action, durable, natural feel
• Neutral buoyancy — stays in the strike zone longer on the fall and pause
• 10 per pack

Models & Specs

Water Type: Freshwater | Target Species: Bass, Walleye

Tackle Express Tips

1. Size down for deeper fish — The 3" is your go-to for suspended fish in deep, clear water where a smaller profile is less intimidating. Move up to the 3.5" or 4" when fish are actively feeding or you need more visibility on your FFS screen.
2. Match the forage first — Natural Shad, Tennessee Shad, and Sexy Shad are your best natural forage matches in clear water. Switch to Electric Shad, Chartreuse Electric Blue, or Sight Flash when you need a reaction color in stained water or low light.
3. Watch the bait, not the rod — On FFS, keep your eyes on the screen and watch how fish react to the Scope Shad on the fall. If fish follow but don't commit, slow your fall rate by dropping to a lighter drop shot weight or switching to a smaller size.

FAQ

Q: What makes the Scope Shad different from other drop shot baits?
A: The Scope Shad was specifically engineered for forward-facing sonar fishing — its slender shad profile reads clearly on FFS screens and triggers strikes from fish watching the bait approach. Most drop shot baits weren't designed with FFS visibility in mind; the Scope Shad was built from the ground up for this application.

Q: Which size should I start with?
A: Start with the 3" in clear water and when targeting suspended fish at depth. Move to the 3.5" as your all-around size, and use the 4" when bass are actively feeding on larger baitfish or you need more profile visibility on your FFS screen.

Q: Can I use the Scope Shad without forward-facing sonar?
A: Absolutely — the Scope Shad is a deadly traditional drop shot and shaky head bait even without FFS. Its slender shad profile and natural action trigger strikes from finicky bass in clear water and deep structure situations regardless of your electronics setup.

Why Buy the Yamamoto Nuki Bug?

Built on the DNA of the wildly popular Yamatanuki, the Yamamoto Nuki Bug takes the power-finesse concept and adds a whole new level of lifelike movement. Two flanged claws and six legs create a constant, quivering action that bass simply can't ignore — whether it's falling through the water column or sitting on the bottom twitching in place. At 3.5", it's the ideal finesse size for clear water, pressured fish, and situations where a smaller, more natural profile gets more bites. 6 per pack at $7.19.

Main Use & Benefit

A 3.5-inch finesse creature bait designed for lifelike crawfish and aquatic insect imitation — its two flanged claws and six legs produce constant, quivering action that triggers strikes on weightless EWG, jig trailer, Ned rig, and finesse flipping presentations for pressured bass in clear water.

Problem It Solves

Standard creature baits are too bulky for finesse presentations and don't produce the subtle, multi-appendage movement that triggers finicky bass in clear water. The Nuki Bug's 3.5" profile and six-leg design create constant, lifelike action at rest and on the move — looking alive even when sitting still, which is exactly when pressured bass commit.

Advantages

• ✅ Two flanged claws + six legs — maximum lifelike movement at rest and on the fall
• ✅ Built on the proven Yamatanuki platform — tournament-tested design
• ✅ 3.5" finesse profile — ideal for clear water, pressured bass, and finesse presentations
• ✅ Versatile — weightless EWG, jig trailer, Ned rig, finesse flipping
• ✅ Yamamoto premium salt-impregnated soft plastic formula — natural feel, fish hold on longer
• ✅ 8 proven color patterns matched to real crawfish and aquatic forage
• ⚠️ 6 per pack (vs. 10 for smaller craw baits) — premium bait at a premium count
• ⚠️ Finesse-focused — not designed for power fishing or heavy cover applications

When to Choose It

Reach for the Nuki Bug when bass are post-frontal and finicky, you're fishing clear or heavily pressured water, or you need a compact creature bait with maximum appendage action for weightless and finesse presentations. It's the go-to when you need more movement than a standard craw bait but a smaller profile than a full-size creature bait.

Best Fishing Techniques

• Weightless EWG — rig on a 2/0–3/0 EWG hook and swim with a subtle, natural action that perfectly mimics a small crawfish or aquatic creature; the claws and legs flutter on the fall
• Jig Trailer — pin onto a finesse jig or football jig; the flanged claws and six legs add bite-triggering secondary movement on every hop
• Ned Rig — thread onto a 3/16–1/4 oz Ned head for a stand-up presentation on hard bottom; the legs quiver naturally on the pause
• Finesse Flipping — Texas-rig on a 2/0–3/0 EWG hook and flip into sparse cover, docks, and laydowns for a compact creature presentation
• Texas Rig (Light) — 1/16–1/8 oz bullet weight for a slow-falling presentation through open water and sparse cover

Best Conditions

• Clear water (visibility 2ft+) where natural, subtle action is critical
• Post-frontal high pressure and slow-bite days
• Heavily pressured tournament lakes where bass have seen everything
• Hard bottom, rock, gravel, docks, and sparse cover
• Year-round — especially effective in spring (pre-spawn) and fall when crawfish are most active

Best For

Key Features

• Two flanged claws — flutter and kick on the fall and retrieve for maximum visual appeal
• Six legs — constant, quivering action at rest and on the move
• 3.5" finesse profile — compact creature bait for clear water and pressured bass
• Built on the Yamatanuki platform — proven tournament design
• Salt-impregnated Yamamoto formula — natural feel, fish hold on longer
• 8 proven color patterns
• 6 per pack

Models & Specs

Size: 3.5" | Count: 6 per pack | Water Type: Freshwater

Tackle Express Tips

1. Swim it slow on the EWG — The Nuki Bug's best action on a weightless EWG is a slow, steady retrieve just below the surface or through the water column. The claws and legs flutter naturally — resist the urge to twitch or jerk; let the bait do the work.
2. Match the bottom color — Green Pumpkin Black Flake (#297) and Dark Green Pumpkin / Amber Laminate are your best natural bottom-matching colors for clear water. Switch to Blue Craw in stained water or rocky environments where blue-tinted crawfish are common.
3. Trim the legs for a jig trailer — When using the Nuki Bug as a jig trailer, trim 2–3 of the legs for a more compact profile on smaller jigs (3/16–1/4 oz). Leave all six legs intact on larger football jigs for maximum action and bulk.

FAQ

Q: How does the Nuki Bug compare to the Yamatanuki?
A: The Nuki Bug is built on the Yamatanuki's proven platform but adds two flanged claws for additional flutter and visual appeal on the fall. The Nuki Bug is the more finesse-oriented option at 3.5" — ideal for clear water and pressured fish. The Yamatanuki is available in larger sizes for power-finesse and heavier cover applications.

Q: What EWG hook size works best for the Nuki Bug?
A: A 2/0 or 3/0 EWG hook works best for weightless presentations. Use a 2/0 for a more compact, subtle profile in clear water, and a 3/0 when you need better hook gap coverage for larger fish or heavier cover.

Q: Is the Nuki Bug good as a jig trailer?
A: Yes — it's one of the best finesse jig trailers in the Yamamoto lineup. The flanged claws and six legs add constant, bite-triggering secondary movement on every hop that complements the jig's action perfectly. It works especially well on finesse jigs (3/16–1/4 oz) in clear water and on football jigs over hard bottom.

The Salty Crew Sailfish Short Sleeve Shirt is a comfortable and stylish addition to any wardrobe. Made from 22 singles soft spun cotton, it offers a lightweight fit perfect for all-day wear. With striking screenprinted designs on the front and back, this classic tee is a must-have for those looking to upgrade their casual style. Add it to your collection now!

• 100% Cotton
  
• 22 Singles combed ringspun
  
• Screenprinted front and back

The Salty Crew Tentacles Long Sleeve T-Shirt is perfect for those who live for the ocean. Made from 100% soft spun cotton, this tee is lightweight and durable, ideal for all-day wear. Featuring striking screen-printed graphics on the front, back, and sleeves, this shirt combines style and functionality. Whether you're on or off the water, this tee is designed to withstand the elements.

• 100% Cotton
  
• 30 Singles soft spun
  
• Screen printed front, back and sleeves

The Daiwa Saltiga TG Bait 180g is a high-density tungsten metal jig engineered for hard-pulling offshore species — tuna, yellowtail, amberjack, grouper, and more. Tungsten's superior density relative to lead produces a dramatically smaller profile at the same weight, allowing the TG Bait to sink faster and reach the strike zone quicker than conventional lead jigs of equivalent weight. That smaller profile also means less water resistance on the drop and a more compact, realistic baitfish silhouette that triggers bites from pressured fish.

Made in Japan and available in three colors — including two colorways developed specifically for the US market. Sold without hooks — pair with your preferred assist hooks to customize the rig to your target species and jigging style. 

Key Features

• High-Density Tungsten Construction — Tungsten's superior density produces a much smaller profile than lead at the same weight; faster sink rate, less water resistance, and a more compact baitfish silhouette.
• Faster Sink Rate — Reaches the strike zone faster than conventional lead jigs; critical for targeting fish holding deep or in strong current.
• Compact Profile — Smaller cross-section triggers bites from pressured fish that have seen conventional jig profiles; effective on tuna, yellowtail, and amberjack.
• Made in Japan — Saltiga-level quality and finish from Daiwa's premium Japanese manufacturing.
• US Market Color Options — Two of the three available colors were developed specifically for the US market.
• Sold Without Hooks — Customize with your preferred assist hooks for your target species and jigging technique.

Product Specifications

Color Guide

• Blue Pink (TGB-180BP) — US market color. Blue/pink contrast pattern effective for tuna and yellowtail in a wide range of light and water conditions.
• Gold Green Zebra (TGB-180GGG) — US market color. Gold/green zebra pattern with high flash; effective in deeper water and low-light conditions.
• Silver Zebra Glow (TGB-180GBP-2) — Silver zebra pattern with glow finish; effective at depth and in low-visibility conditions where glow triggers strikes.

Best For

• Tuna Jigging — Compact tungsten profile and fast sink rate get the jig into the zone quickly on fast-moving tuna schools.
• Yellowtail & Amberjack — 180g weight and small profile effective for vertical jigging on yellowtail and amberjack holding on structure.
• Deep Water & Strong Current — Tungsten's density cuts through current and reaches depth faster than lead jigs of the same weight.
• Pressured Fish — Compact baitfish silhouette triggers bites from fish that have seen conventional lead jig profiles.

Get ready for the ultimate Halloween fishing experience with our Boondock Scream Tournament Special Jigs! Each custom-made jig not only gets you an entry into the 3rd annual BOO-ndock Baits October Tournament, but also guarantees a spooky catch with its one-of-a-kind design. Don't miss your chance to reel in the biggest largemouth bass willing to take on Scream. Don't forget to tag @Boondockbaits & @tackleexpress in your pictures for a chance to win big!

Tournament Details:

• Starts October 1st. through October 31st 2025.
• Largemouth bass only
• Any waters, Any time
• Must be caught on Scream Jig.
• Entire fish must be pictured on measuring device/bump board with Identifier Code (releasing Sept. 30th)
• Post pictures and tag @boondockbaits and @tackleexpress to submit your catches.
• 3 Different Chances to win: Big Fish, 2nd Biggest Fish, Most Catches (3 different winners)

Same bait, one more treble. The Gunfish 95 H3 is the standard 95 body carrying three hooks instead of two — built for the specific problem of fish that blow up on a walking bait and don't get stuck.

Short version: 3-3/4" walking topwater, 3/8 oz, three treble hooks, tungsten resin tail weight for casting into wind. The high-percentage version of the size most people should own.

Why a Third Hook Matters

Topwater fish are the least committed fish you'll deal with. They come from below at a bait they can only half see, at speed, and a lot of them slash rather than eat. Two trebles leaves a gap in the middle of a 3-3/4" body — the third fills it.

That's the entire proposition. It doesn't cast further, walk better, or call fish harder than a standard 95. It converts more of the strikes you were already getting.

The trade-off is honest: more hardware means more to foul on the cast, more to tangle in landing nets, and more to bury in cover. Around timber and grass, a two-hook 95 is the cleaner tool. In open water on schooling fish, take the three.

What It Does in the Water

Thin tapered body that walks tight side to side on rhythmic rod twitches. The cupped face spits and sprays water on each turn, which reads to a predator like bait busting the surface. Inside, a sound chamber knocks loudly enough to pull fish up out of deep water.

The tungsten resin tail weight system is what makes it cast — mass concentrated in the tail carries the bait a long way, including straight into wind, which is when topwater fishing usually falls apart.

How to Work It

Twitch into slack line, not into tension. The bait needs slack to turn; a tight line drives it straight and you lose the walk entirely.

Fish it quickly. The spit, the knock and the bubble trail all come alive at speed.

Wait to feel weight before setting. This matters more here, not less — three trebles means a fish that has any of the bait usually has a hook, so give it the extra beat and reel down.

Which Gunfish?

The family is really two sizes with a three-hook option on each. The 95 H3 is to the 95 what the 117 is to the 115.

Picking a Color

Fishing It Around Santa Clarita

When stripers are boiling and you're getting blown up on without connecting, this is the bait that fixes the afternoon. We publish Castaic Lake fishing reports with current conditions — worth reading before you commit a morning to the surface.

Recommended Gear

• Rod: medium power, moderate action, 6'8" to 7'2". A fast tip tears trebles out on surface strikes.
• Line: braid to a fluorocarbon or mono leader. Straight mono works and floats, which helps hold the nose up.
• Avoid heavy fluorocarbon straight through — it sinks and fights the float.

Pro Tips from the Tackle Express Crew

• Check the hooks before every few casts. Three trebles on a slim body will foul on each other, and a fouled bait won't walk at all.
• Use a rubber landing net. Three sets of trebles turn a mesh net into a ten-minute problem with a fish in it.
• Twitch into slack. The one thing that separates people who can walk this bait from people who can't.
• Wait for the weight. Setting on the splash is how most topwater fish are lost, extra hooks or not.

Common Mistakes

• Fishing it in heavy cover. Three trebles find everything. Use a two-hook 95 around timber and grass.
• Working it on a tight line. The bait needs slack to turn.
• Fishing it slow. The spit and knock only show up at speed.
• Assuming it fixes bad hooksets. More hooks convert more strikes; they don't fix setting on sight.

Specifications

Lucky Craft does not publish a separate spec chart for the 95 H3. Individual treble sizes aren't listed — call the shop and we'll measure the hooks on the one in the case. Colors offered vary by production run; the selector above is the live list.

What's Included

One Lucky Craft Gunfish 95 H3 in the color selected, factory rigged with three trebles. No spare hooks or split rings included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does H3 mean?
Three hooks. It's the standard Gunfish 95 body rigged with three trebles instead of two.

How big is it?
3-3/4 inches (95mm) and 3/8 oz — the same size as the standard Gunfish 95.

Is it worth it over the 95NF?
If you're getting blown up on and not connecting, yes. If you fish around timber and grass, the two-hook version is cleaner and you'll spend less time unhooking cover.

Does the third hook change the action?
The body, weighting and sound chamber are the same. Keep the hooks clear of each other and it walks like a 95.

How fast should I fish it?
Quickly. The spitting, the knocking and the bubble trail all come alive at pace.

What rod and line?
Medium power with a moderate action so trebles don't tear out. Braid to a fluorocarbon or mono leader; avoid heavy fluorocarbon straight through.

95 H3 or 117?
Both are three-hook baits. The 95 H3 is the smaller, subtler one; the 117 is 4-1/2", 3/5 oz, and has a pencil popper face that throws more water.

Do I need a special net?
A rubber net is worth it. Three sets of trebles and mesh netting do not get along.

Related Gear

• Lucky Craft Gunfish 95NF — same size, two hooks, no feather.
• Lucky Craft Gunfish 117 — 4-1/2" pencil popper, three trebles.
• Lucky Craft Gunfish 115NF — 4-1/2", two hooks.
• Topwater Fishing Lures — poppers, walking baits, and stickbaits.

Buy It From People Who Fish It

We're on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, twenty minutes from Castaic, and we fish these lakes ourselves. If you've been getting blown up on all summer without landing them, come talk to us — sometimes the answer is this bait and sometimes it's your rod.

The Swimbait That Works Every Way You Fish It

The Bottom Dweller Baits Shiner4 is a 4" soft swimbait built for anglers who want one bait that does it all. Whether you're slow-rolling a lead head along the bottom, running it on an A-Rig, or using it as a bladed jig trailer, the Shiner4 delivers a lifelike, fish-catching action that gets bit. Sold in 3-packs in proven color patterns, it's a staple for freshwater bass fishing and inshore calico action.

Built for Multiple Rigging Styles

The Shiner4 is engineered to perform across a wide range of presentations. Rig it on a 2/0–4/0 swimbait hook for a weedless setup, pair it with a lead head and 8–12lb fluorocarbon for a finesse slow-roll, or run multiple baits on an umbrella rig for a schooling baitfish effect. Its weight distribution and body profile allow seamless transitions between techniques without sacrificing action.

When Generic Swimbaits Fall Short

Most soft swimbaits are built for one technique and one technique only. The Shiner4 is different — its body taper, tail kick, and weight balance are dialed in to produce natural action whether it's swimming fast, slow-rolled near the bottom, or trailing behind a bladed jig. You get a bait that adapts to the fish, not the other way around.

Lifelike Action + Fluorocarbon Sensitivity = More Bites

Pair the Shiner4 with 8–12lb fluorocarbon and you'll feel every subtle tap and bump. The low-vis fluoro keeps the presentation natural, while the Shiner4's tail kick does the work of mimicking a fleeing baitfish. The result is a bait that looks real, feels real, and gets eaten.

The Right Pick If...

• You want one swimbait that works on a swimbait hook, lead head, A-Rig, or bladed jig
• You're targeting bass, calico, or other predatory fish in freshwater or inshore environments
• You want a proven color selection in a 3-pack value format
• You need a trailer that adds action to your bladed jig or umbrella rig

Best Fishing Techniques

• Slow-rolling on a lead head near the bottom
• Weedless rigging on a 2/0–4/0 swimbait hook
• Alabama/umbrella rig (A-Rig) — multiple baits for a schooling effect
• Bladed jig trailer for added action and profile
• Mid-column swimming retrieve

Best Conditions

• Clear to lightly stained water where a natural baitfish profile shines
• Slow to moderate retrieves when fish are lethargic or pressured
• Schooling baitfish situations — match the hatch with shad or shiner colors
• Freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and rivers; inshore calico kelp fishing

Best For

• Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, calico bass, striped bass
• Techniques: Swimbait fishing, A-Rig, bladed jig trailer, lead head slow-roll
• Line: 8–12lb fluorocarbon recommended for lead head presentations

Key Features

• 4" soft swimbait with natural baitfish profile
• Compatible with 2/0–4/0 swimbait hooks
• Works on lead heads, A-Rigs, and bladed jigs
• Unrigged weight: ~0.5 oz
• 3 baits per pack
• Available in Hologram Shad, Sexy Shad, Big Fish, White Ghost, and Rainbow Trout

Models & Specs

Unrigged Weight: ~0.5 oz  |  Length: 4"

Tackle Express Tips

• Go lighter on the lead head in cold water. When fish are sluggish, drop to a 1/4 oz head and slow your retrieve way down — the Shiner4's tail does the work even at a crawl.
• Match the color to water clarity. Hologram Shad and White Ghost shine in clear water; Big Fish and Sexy Shad are go-tos in stained or off-color conditions.
• Use it as a bladed jig trailer for a bigger profile. Thread the Shiner4 onto your bladed jig hook for added bulk and a more pronounced tail kick — deadly when bass are keying on larger baitfish.

FAQ

What hook size should I use with the Shiner4?
A 2/0–4/0 swimbait hook is the ideal range. A 3/0 is a great all-around starting point for most presentations. Match hook size to the lead head weight and the depth you're fishing.

Can I use the Shiner4 on an umbrella rig?
Yes — the Shiner4 is an excellent A-Rig bait. Its compact 4" profile and natural tail kick create a convincing schooling baitfish effect. Run 3–5 on a standard umbrella rig frame for maximum impact.

What line should I use?
For lead head presentations, 8–12lb fluorocarbon is recommended. Fluoro's low visibility and sensitivity make it ideal for slow-rolling the Shiner4 near the bottom. For A-Rig or bladed jig use, match your main line to the technique.

 The Salty Crew Topstitch Retro Trucker Hat is:

• 55% Polyester/ 43% Cotton/ 2% Spandex
  
• Structured 6 panel, mid-crown height
  
• Screenprinted canvas patch
  
• Plastic snapback
  
• Size: One Size
  

NF means no feather. Lucky Craft dresses the rear treble on the standard Gunfish 115; this version leaves it bare. Small change, real consequence — without the feather the tail sits differently at rest and the bait walks a touch freer, and you're not fishing a dressing that mats down and holds water after a few fish.

Short version: 4-1/2" walking topwater, 3/5 oz, floating, two trebles (#4, #5). Everything the 95 does, exaggerated — more water thrown, wider action, longer reach.

What the 115 Does That the 95 Doesn't

Lucky Craft pro Brent Ehrler puts it plainly: everything on the 115 is exaggerated compared to the 95. It sprays more water, it walks wider, and it calls fish from further. Worked fast, it throws water twelve to fifteen inches to each side.

That's the whole argument. This isn't a bigger bait for bigger fish — it's a louder bait for reaching fish that a 95 never told about it. It's still a reasonable size for tournament keepers while being big enough to interest a giant.

Where It Earns Its Keep

• Covering water fast. The heavy metal composite weighting system casts a long way, and this bait is built to be fished quickly.
• Calling fish from depth. The cupped mouth and the sound chamber together pull fish up off structure that never see a quieter bait.
• Schooling and surface-feeding fish, where the spray reads as a feeding opportunity to everything nearby.
• Wind and chop — the casting system handles it, and a loud bait is the right call when the surface is broken up.

How to Work It

Fish it fast. This is the bait's design intent, not a stylistic preference. Rhythmic twitches into slack line get the walk and the spit going together — a tight line drives it straight and you lose both.

Use the pause anyway. It floats, so it holds position when you stop it. After a blow-up and a miss, letting it sit is more productive than snatching it away.

115NF or 117? The Real Question

These two are the same length and the same weight. The difference is hooks.

See the Gunfish 117 →

Every Color Here Is a Limited Run

Lucky Craft lists the entire 115NF lineup under limited-run colors. When a colorway sells through, it isn't automatically reproduced. If you've found one that works on your water, buying a spare is not paranoia.

Fishing It Around Santa Clarita

A loud, long-casting topwater earns its keep on the days fish are boiling out of reach. We publish Castaic Lake fishing reports with current conditions — worth reading before you commit a morning to the surface.

Recommended Gear

• Rod: medium to medium-heavy, moderate action, 7' or longer. Length helps the cast; a forgiving tip keeps trebles in the fish.
• Line: braid to a fluorocarbon or mono leader. Braid moves the bait; the leader handles cover.
• Avoid heavy fluorocarbon straight through — it sinks and pulls the nose down, fighting the float and the walk.

Pro Tips from the Tackle Express Crew

• Twitch into slack, not into tension. The single thing that separates people who can walk this bait from people who can't.
• Fish it faster than feels right. The spit and the wide walk only show up at speed. Slow retrieves waste what this bait is for.
• Wait to feel weight before setting. Setting on the splash pulls it out of the fish's mouth — the most common way topwater fish are lost.
• Buy the spare. These are limited-run colors. The one you love is the one you'll lose in a tree.

Common Mistakes

• Fishing it slow. Wrong tool for a slow presentation — drop to a 95 or fish a subtler bait.
• Working it on a tight line. The bait needs slack to turn.
• Too stiff a rod. Costs you fish on every strike.
• Assuming it's the same as the 117. Same size, one fewer hook. Pick deliberately.

Specifications

Specs confirmed against Lucky Craft's published Gunfish 115NF chart. Colors offered vary by production run — the selector above is the live list.

What's Included

One Lucky Craft Gunfish 115NF in the color selected, factory rigged with two trebles and no rear feather. No spare hooks or split rings included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does NF stand for?
No feather. The standard Gunfish 115 has a dressed rear treble; this version leaves it bare.

How big is it?
4-1/2 inches (115mm) and 3/5 oz (19 grams).

How many hooks?
Two trebles — one #4 and one #5.

115NF or 117?
Same length and weight. The 117 carries a third treble for more hooking surface on short strikes; the 115NF has two, which is cleaner around cover.

How fast should I fish it?
Fast. Worked quickly it sprays water twelve to fifteen inches to each side — that spray is what calls fish from a distance.

Does it float?
Yes. It holds position on the pause, which is where a lot of the bites come from.

Will these colors come back?
Lucky Craft lists the whole 115NF lineup as limited run, so not necessarily. Call the shop and we'll tell you what's inbound.

What rod and line?
Medium to medium-heavy, moderate action, 7' or longer. Braid to a fluorocarbon or mono leader; avoid heavy fluorocarbon straight through.

Related Gear

• Lucky Craft Gunfish 117 — same size, three trebles.
• Lucky Craft Gunfish 95NF — the 4" no-feather version.
• Lucky Craft Gunfish 95 H3 — three-hook 95.
• Topwater Fishing Lures — poppers, walking baits, and stickbaits.

Buy It From People Who Fish It

We're on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, twenty minutes from Castaic, and we fish these lakes ourselves. Not sure whether you want two hooks or three, or whether today calls for the 95 instead? Call the shop or come in — short conversation, saves you buying the wrong one first.

Why Buy the Yamamoto 2.5" Yamatanuki?

Hot on the heels of one of the most popular baits of 2023, the Yamamoto 2.5" Yamatanuki brings the proven power-finesse action of the 3.5" big brother into a smaller, more compact package that fish simply can't resist. At 1/4 oz, it falls with the same tantalizing sway and shimmy, fits light line and finesse setups, and opens up a whole new range of applications in clear water, smallmouth, spotted bass, and pressured fisheries. Proudly made in the USA. 8 per pack.

Main Use & Benefit

A 2.5-inch, 1/4 oz compact power-finesse bait designed for clear water, smallmouth, spotted bass, and finesse scenarios — its tantalizing sway and shimmy on the fall triggers strikes on weightless, jig head, drop shot, and finesse flipping presentations where the larger 3.5" is too big.

Problem It Solves

The 3.5" Yamatanuki is a proven tournament bait, but its larger profile can be too much for ultra-clear water, finicky smallmouth, and spotted bass that key on smaller forage. The 2.5" Yamatanuki delivers the same irresistible sway and shimmy in a compact package that can be fished on light line, skipped under docks, and presented in situations where downsizing is the only answer.

Advantages

• ✅ Same tantalizing sway and shimmy as the 3.5" Yamatanuki — in a compact 2.5" package
• ✅ 1/4 oz natural weight — casts well on light line without added weight
• ✅ Versatile — weightless, jig head, drop shot, finesse flipping, skip presentations
• ✅ Ideal for clear water, smallmouth, spotted bass, and finesse scenarios
• ✅ Proudly made in the USA — consistent, top-quality Yamamoto soft plastic
• ✅ 8 proven color options
• ✅ 8 per pack at $5.99
• ⚠️ Compact 2.5" profile — for larger forage or heavier cover, consider the 3.5" Yamatanuki

When to Choose It

Reach for the 2.5" Yamatanuki when bass are keying on smaller forage in clear water, when the 3.5" is getting short-strikes or ignored, or when you need a compact power-finesse bait that can be skipped, pitched, and fished on light line. It's the go-to for smallmouth and spotted bass in clear lakes and rivers, and for largemouth in heavily pressured clear-water fisheries.

Best Fishing Techniques

• Weightless — rig on a 1/0–2/0 EWG hook and let the 1/4 oz body fall naturally; the sway and shimmy on the fall is the primary trigger; cast, pitch, or skip under docks and laydowns
• Jig Head — thread onto a 3/16–1/4 oz round or football jig head for a swimming or hopping presentation; the compact body produces action at any retrieve speed
• Drop Shot — nose-hook on a #1 or #2 hook, 12–18" above the weight; the compact profile hovers naturally in the strike zone for finicky suspended fish
• Finesse Flipping — Texas-rig on a 1/0–2/0 EWG and flip into sparse cover, docks, and laydowns; the compact size is perfect for skipping into tight spots
• Ned Rig — thread onto a 3/16 oz Ned head for a stand-up presentation on hard bottom; the body quivers naturally on the pause

Best Conditions

• Clear water (visibility 2ft+) where a compact, natural profile is most effective
• Smallmouth and spotted bass fisheries where smaller forage is the key
• Post-frontal high pressure and slow-bite days
• Docks, laydowns, and sparse cover where skipping is required
• Year-round — especially effective in spring (pre-spawn) and fall

Best For

Key Features

• 2.5" compact profile — smaller version of the proven 3.5" Yamatanuki
• 1/4 oz natural weight — casts well on light line without added weight
• Tantalizing sway and shimmy — same irresistible fall action as the 3.5"
• Versatile rigging — weightless, jig head, drop shot, finesse flipping, Ned rig
• Made in the USA — consistent, top-quality Yamamoto soft plastic
• 8 proven color options
• 8 per pack

Models & Specs

Size: 2.5" | Weight: 1/4 oz | Count: 8 per pack | Made in the USA | Water Type: Freshwater

Tackle Express Tips

1. Skip it on light line — The 2.5" Yamatanuki's 1/4 oz weight makes it one of the easiest power-finesse baits to skip under docks and overhanging cover on 10–12 lb fluorocarbon. Rig it weightless on a 1/0 EWG and practice the sidearm skip cast — it slides under cover that most baits can't reach.
2. Green Pumpkin w/ Black Flake for clear water — Green Pumpkin w/ Black Flake (#297) is your go-to in clear water where a natural bottom-matching color is critical. Switch to Mimizu in stained water or when bass are keying on worm-colored forage, and use Baby Bass when smallmouth are targeting juvenile bass.
3. Let it fall on slack line — The Yamatanuki's sway and shimmy is most pronounced on a semi-slack line fall. After the cast, close the bail and let the bait fall on a slightly bowed line — don't pull it tight. Most strikes happen on the fall, so watch your line for any twitch or jump.

FAQ

Q: What's the difference between the 2.5" and 3.5" Yamatanuki?
A: The 2.5" is the compact, finesse-oriented version — ideal for clear water, smallmouth, spotted bass, and situations where a smaller profile gets more bites. The 3.5" has more bulk and presence for largemouth in heavier cover and stained water. Both deliver the same tantalizing sway and shimmy on the fall; choose based on forage size and water clarity.

Q: What hook size works best for the 2.5" Yamatanuki weightless?
A: A 1/0 or 2/0 EWG hook works best for weightless presentations. Use a 1/0 for a more compact, subtle profile in ultra-clear water and for skipping, and a 2/0 when you need better hook gap coverage for larger fish.

Q: How many come in a pack?
A: 8 per pack.

Premium Fluorocarbon for Serious Anglers

The Shimano Mastiff Fluorocarbon Line delivers premium fluorocarbon performance designed for serious anglers who demand invisibility, sensitivity, and strength. Built with advanced fluorocarbon technology and precision manufacturing, this line provides exceptional abrasion resistance, low visibility, and reliable knot strength for both freshwater and saltwater applications. The Mastiff represents Shimano's commitment to creating high-performance fishing line.

Advanced Fluorocarbon Technology

• 100% Fluorocarbon: Pure fluorocarbon construction provides maximum invisibility underwater
• Low Refractive Index: Nearly invisible to fish in all water conditions
• Fast Sinking: Denser than water for quick descent and maintaining lure depth
• Low Stretch: Minimal stretch provides excellent sensitivity for detecting bites
• UV Resistant: Resists degradation from sunlight exposure for long-lasting performance
• Water Absorption Resistant: Maintains strength and performance in all conditions

Premium Performance Characteristics

• Superior Abrasion Resistance: Withstands contact with rocks, wood, and structure
• Excellent Knot Strength: Reliable knots hold strong under pressure
• Smooth Casting: Low memory and supple construction for easy casting
• Consistent Diameter: Precision manufacturing ensures uniform line diameter
• High Tensile Strength: Strong pound-test ratings for fighting big fish
• Shock Resistance: Absorbs sudden strikes and runs without breaking

Versatile Fishing Applications

The Mastiff Fluorocarbon excels across a wide range of fishing applications. Use as leader material for freshwater and saltwater fishing, spool directly on spinning or baitcasting reels for finesse techniques, fish around heavy cover and structure with confidence, work for clear water conditions where invisibility is critical, or handle any situation where fluorocarbon's unique properties provide advantages.

Multiple Pound Test Options

Available in multiple pound test ratings to match your specific fishing applications, from light finesse fishing to heavy-duty trophy hunting. Each pound test is optimized for specific techniques while maintaining the premium performance characteristics that define the Mastiff line.

Key Features

Shimano Quality and Innovation

Shimano has been the global leader in fishing tackle innovation for decades, and the Mastiff Fluorocarbon continues this proud tradition with advanced fluorocarbon technology and precision manufacturing. Every spool is produced to exacting standards and tested to ensure consistent performance. From weekend anglers to tournament professionals, the Mastiff delivers the invisibility, sensitivity, and strength that serious anglers demand.

Experience the premium fluorocarbon performance that serious anglers trust. The Shimano Mastiff isn't just fishing line—it's a critical component of your fishing success.

Fish with confidence using Shimano Mastiff Fluorocarbon—where invisibility meets strength.

Why Buy the Yamamoto 3.5" Yamatanuki?

The Yamamoto 3.5" Yamatanuki is a power-finesse bait unlike anything else in the lineup. Born from Yamamoto's Japanese tournament circuit — where it's been a proven fish-catcher for years — the Yamatanuki is now available in the US and quickly becoming a go-to for anglers who flip into cover, cast to fish on forward-facing sonar, and need a bait that falls fast and looks natural doing it. At 5/8 oz, it casts like a bullet, falls with a tantalizing sway and shimmy, and can be fished completely weightless. 8 per pack, 8 handpicked colors. Made in the USA.

Main Use & Benefit

A 3.5-inch, 5/8 oz power-finesse bait built from a custom heavy soft plastic formula — its natural weight allows it to be fished weightless yet cast far and fall fast, making it the go-to for flipping into cover, casting to forward-facing sonar fish, and any presentation where a fast-falling, natural-looking bait triggers strikes.

Problem It Solves

Most finesse baits are too light to cast well or fall fast enough for flipping and FFS presentations. Most flipping baits require added weight that kills the natural action. The Yamatanuki's 5/8 oz custom heavy formula solves both — it casts great, falls fast, and produces a tantalizing sway and shimmy on the fall that triggers strikes without any added weight.

Advantages

• ✅ 5/8 oz custom heavy formula — casts far and falls fast without added weight
• ✅ Tantalizing sway and shimmy on the fall — irresistible action that triggers strikes
• ✅ Versatile — flipping, casting, dragging, FFS, and finesse presentations
• ✅ Proven on the Japanese tournament circuit — now available in the US
• ✅ 8 handpicked colors matched to real-world fishing conditions
• ✅ Made in the USA — consistent, top-quality Yamamoto soft plastic
  
• ⚠️ 5/8 oz — heavier than standard finesse baits; best on 15–20 lb fluorocarbon or 30–50 lb braid for flipping

When to Choose It

Reach for the Yamatanuki when you need a bait that can be flipped into heavy cover, cast to fish you can see on forward-facing sonar, or presented in situations where a fast-falling, natural-looking bait outperforms everything else. It's equally effective as a power-finesse casting bait on medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting gear and as a flipping bait on heavy tackle.

Best Fishing Techniques

• Flipping & Pitching — rig on a 5/0 EWG hook and flip into heavy cover, docks, laydowns, and grass; the 5/8 oz body penetrates cover and falls fast to the bottom; no added weight needed
• Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) — cast to fish you can see on screen; the sway and shimmy on the fall triggers reaction strikes from fish that are watching the bait descend in real time
• Casting & Dragging — cast to structure and drag slowly along the bottom; the heavy body stays in contact with the bottom and the appendages quiver on every pause
• Weightless Swimming — slow, steady retrieve just below the surface or through the water column; the body produces a natural swimming action at any speed
• Skip Presentations — the 5/8 oz body loads the rod for long, accurate skip casts under docks and overhanging cover

Best Conditions

• Heavy cover — docks, laydowns, grass, brush piles
• Open water and mid-depth structure on FFS presentations
• Clear to lightly stained water where the sway and shimmy is most visible
• Any depth — the fast fall makes it effective from shallow flipping to deep FFS
• Year-round — especially effective in spring (pre-spawn flipping) and summer (FFS open water)

Best For

Key Features

• 3.5" profile, 5/8 oz — heavy custom formula for fast fall and long casts without added weight
• Tantalizing sway and shimmy — irresistible fall action proven on the Japanese tournament circuit
• 5/0 EWG compatible — superior hook gap for better hooksets in heavy cover
• 8 handpicked colors — matched to real-world fishing conditions by Yamamoto pros
• Made in the USA
• 8 per pack

Models & Specs

Size: 3.5" | Weight: 5/8 oz | Count: 8 per pack | Made in the USA | Water Type: Freshwater

Tackle Express Tips

1. Go heavy on the hook — The Yamatanuki's 5/8 oz body requires a 5/0 EWG hook for the best hook gap and hookset performance. A 4/0 will work in a pinch, but the 5/0 gives you the gap coverage you need for solid hooksets in heavy cover. The Tackle Express team's go-to is the Owner Beast 5/0 or Gamakatsu EWG 5/0.
2. Green Pumpkin w/ Black Flake for most situations — Green Pumpkin w/ Black Flake (#297) is the most versatile color in the lineup and should be your starting point in clear to lightly stained water. Switch to Mimizu in stained water or when bass are keying on worm-colored forage, and use Black w/ Large Blue Flake in dark or muddy water for maximum visibility.
3. Watch the line on FFS — When casting to fish on forward-facing sonar, watch both your screen and your line. The Yamatanuki's sway and shimmy is most visible on FFS during the fall — most strikes happen before the bait hits the bottom. Keep your rod tip up and be ready to set the hook the moment you see a fish move toward the bait on screen.

FAQ

Q: Can the Yamatanuki be fished completely weightless?
A: Yes — that's one of its biggest advantages. The 5/8 oz custom heavy formula gives it enough weight to cast well and fall fast without any added bullet weight or jig head. Simply rig it on a 5/0 EWG hook and fish it weightless for flipping, casting, or FFS presentations.

Q: What line weight works best for the Yamatanuki?
A: For flipping and pitching into heavy cover, 30–50 lb braided line is the standard setup. For casting and FFS presentations in open water, 15–20 lb fluorocarbon or 20–30 lb braid with a 15–17 lb fluoro leader gives you the best combination of castability and sensitivity.

Q: How does the 3.5" Yamatanuki compare to the 2.5" version?
A: The 3.5" is the original and primary power-finesse version — heavier at 5/8 oz, better for flipping into heavy cover and casting to FFS fish in open water. The 2.5" is the compact, finesse-oriented version at 1/4 oz — ideal for clear water, smallmouth, spotted bass, and situations where a smaller profile gets more bites on lighter line.

that was meticulously designed based upon direct feedback from the AFTCO Pro Team to handle extreme foul weather conditions when comfort, performance and focus are needed most.

The intuitive SpeedVent™ hood is engineered to alleviate neck strain and restriction from the airflow encountered when travelling at high rates of speed.

• 2 Layer 100% Nylon Shell with 100% Polyester Mesh Lining
• SpeedVent™ hood, double articulated storm flap
• Covered chest pockets
• Top entry pouch pockets
• Brushed tricot handwarmer pocket
• Retractable d-rings
• Elasticated rear buckle waist cinch
• Rubberized internal sleeve cuffs
• Model is wearing size L. Height 6 ft. Weight 200 lbs.
• Outerwear Washing & Care 
• Classic Fit - Built For Comfort 

SpiderWire DuraBraid Fishing Line is 25% tougher than conventional fishing braids!  Strong knots with super shock absorbency, SpiderWire DuraBraid is now the toughest braid in the market. Designed to be fished around rocks, docks, boat hoists, heavy vegetation, and timber. Spiderwire DuraBraid is also great for inshore and offshore applications in fresh and saltwater against big and powerful fish that make quick work of lesser lines.

• SpiderWire® DURABRAID is 25% tougher than conventional braids!
• Designed to be fished around rocks, docks, boat hoists, heavy vegetation, and timber.

The Jackall TN 80 Lipless Crankbaits has unique features that you won't find in any other lipless crankbait.  It features a Tungsten Mouth System on the lip that allows the lure to stand up when it hits the bottom.  This creates more vibration and a greater sound since a space is created within the inside of the bait.

The unique design of the bait allows it to have very good balance for slow retrieves when tough fishing conditions dictate a slower finesse approach.  It casts extremely well allowing you to cover more water and catch more fish.  We like to crawl it on the bottom like jig in the winter and rip it through the grass in the summer.  Tie one on the next time you get on the water, you'll see the difference.  

 3.1 inch

1oz

The BKK SS Mutsu Circle Light is a light wire circle hook specifically designed to allow for a livelier presentation of live bait, also equipped with the necessary strength to handle the pull fairly big fish.

Besides, the unique offset hook point (Kirbed) results in a higher exposure and contact of the hook point with the muscles of the fish, allowing for the hook to smoothly slide into the fish‘s lip or jaw corner.

The light wire combined with the razor-sharp needle style hook point makes penetration fast and quick.

The Deps Lil Rabbit Creature Bait was developed for catching big bass with a bulky flat design and compact body that creates unique vibration and a very lifelike look. The extra-thick body combined with an ultra-thin tail gives it great action with each movement of your rod tip, creating trembling vibrations that appeal to bass in a wide range of conditions.

The innovative rabbit tail imitates a wide range of baitfish and crustaceans, and many big bass love the natural look of the rabbit tail in ponds, rivers, and giant lakes. It's especially deadly in places where bass feed on bluegill, making it a go-to bait for targeting trophy fish. The bulky flat compact body with no unnecessary parts creates a silhouette that's easy to skip under docks, branches, and laydowns where big bass lurk.

The plastic material contains crustacean parts that fish eaters love, while the 20% salt ultra-soft material is strong and holds hooks well when fished alone or on the back of a jig. The extra-thick body and tip of the tail are the same thickness, but the tail itself is ultra-thin to give strong vibration and butterfly action when you move your rod. It reacts quickly to water currents and bottom changes, making it excellent for drift fishing and other methods that not everyone is trying.

Key Features:

• Bulky Flat Compact Body: Creates unique vibration and lifelike appearance
• Rabbit Tail Design: Imitates baitfish and crustaceans with natural movement
• Extra-Thick Body: Provides bulk while maintaining easy skipping ability
• Ultra-Thin Tail: Delivers strong vibration and butterfly action
• 20% Salt Content: Ultra-soft material with crustacean parts fish love
• Strong Hook Holding: Material holds hooks securely for solo or jig trailer use
• Quick Reaction: Responds to water currents and bottom changes
• Easy to Skip: Compact profile slips under docks and cover

Specifications:

• Type: Bulky flat creature bait with rabbit tail
• Material: 20% salt ultra-soft plastic with crustacean parts
• Target Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass

Rigging Techniques:

• Jig Trailer: Add to flipping jig for enhanced action and profile
• Texas Rig: Weedless presentation for heavy cover
• Weightless: Natural fall around docks and laydowns
• Carolina Rig: Dragging presentation for deep structure
• Shaky Head: Finesse presentation for pressured fish

Retrieve Techniques:

• Rod Tip Movement: Sharp twitches create butterfly tail action
• Drift Fishing: Let current activate the tail naturally
• Skipping: Skip under docks and cover where big bass hide
• Slow Drag: Bottom contact showcases vibration and tail movement
• Lift-and-Drop: Vertical jigging motion triggers reaction strikes

Ideal Applications:

• Waters with bluegill populations
• Skipping under docks, branches, and laydowns
• Jig trailer for flipping heavy cover
• Drift fishing in current
• Targeting big bass in ponds, rivers, and lakes
• When bass are feeding on crustaceans or baitfish
• Finesse presentations for pressured fish

When you need a versatile creature bait that delivers unique vibration, natural rabbit tail action, and easy skipping ability for targeting big bass, the Deps Lil Rabbit is the choice of serious anglers.