Buoyant enough to float a standard 5/0 EWG hook, the 4-inch GOAT ToadZ features a wide, bulky body and streamlined profile which combine to greatly enhance castability. The bait’s smart belly hook slot aids rigging and increases hookset success. Sculpted with a keel-shaped ‘hull,’ the bait’s “V” belly yields stability and a quick-planning action on the retrieve. Topside, four dorsal ridges ride the ToadZ’ back, guiding rigging with a single or double frog hook. Ridges also help protect exposed hook points, preventing fouling in grass or other cover while still easily penetrating bass jaws. “Another difference-making feature of the GOAT ToadZ is its head and throat section,” adds Nussbaum. “The bait’s 10X Tough ElaZtech composition means the head and other parts of the body resist tearing. Even after multiple battles with bass through thick cover, that hook won’t rip through the throat. That’s a common problem among most toad baits, which get destroyed pretty fast. Hook and re-rig the ToadZ over and over again. Still good as new.” Beyond buoyancy, resilience and other amphibious features like warts and eyeballs, the ToadZ’ central attribute is its customized kicker legs. “This was one of the most evolved elements of the bait,” notes Nussbaum. “With help and suggestions from our fans, we tweaked and improved our kicker legs at least a half dozen times. Fan engagement helped us land on a specific configuration that gurgles in the water and produces a fish-attracting bubble trail.” Nussbaum further explains how early leg versions offered too little water resistance, which required thinning and angle alterations to properly churn, gurgle and propel the bait forward at any speed. “Along with fan interaction, we also integrated our customized cupped kicker tail design from the original GOAT™ bait to maximize mobility and flow at slow, medium or fast retrieve speeds. |