Gear Review: Gene Larew Big Hunk Shad

What is it?

Gene Larew Big Hunk Shad

What sets it apart?

If you recognize the basic shape, that’s because the Big Hunk Shad was born from Larew’s innovative Dock Shooter plastic, introduced earlier this year. The larger version measures 6 1/2 inches long and features a contoured top side with shad-detailed etchings opposite a flat belly. The simple design of its broad, pointed tail belies an impressive kicking action that’ll remind you of a dolphin scooting through the water.

How do I use it?

This bait is designed to be rigged flat so its wide surface mimics the unpredictable darting, fluttering, spiraling motion of a live gizzard shad. Gene Larew offers a HunkHead jighead with a 7/0 Mustad Lazer Sharp black nickel hook, a HoldTight bait keeper that eliminates the need for gluing and a stainless cable guard. With 1/2- and 3/4-ounce sizes, the hook’s 60-degree eye bend position’s the nose of the bait for maximum action. Available in six colors, including laminates that resemble shad and sunfish.

How much?

Big Hunk Shad (2/$5.69) HunkHead (3/$8.29)

More Information:

GeneLarew.com

Angler’s insight:

For a big, bulky “hunk” of plastic, this bait looks to have several bass-tempting applications. I can see this being an effective alternative for big spoons or swimbaits on summer ledges when fish tire of the common presentations. During the prespawn, the Big Hunk should make a dandy search bait for fan casting likely staging area and when fish first move up, I can’t imagine an already irritable mama bass greeting a sunfish colored bait with anything short of eye-crossing wrath.