Growing up in East Tennessee, I was surrounded by small rivers and streams full of aggressive smallmouth. These river systems are what got me hooked on fishing, and the bait I used back then consisted of a 4-inch Yamamoto Double Tail Hula Grub on a Texas rig with a 1/4-ounce weight. This worked wonders for me as a child, closely mimicking the crayfish typically found in my local river systems.
It came to my attention that Yamamoto recently released a 2.5-inch version of the Double Tail Hula Grub, and to no surprise I’ve been eager to test it out. I first got my hands on a pack of them around a month ago, and since then I’ve done some serious fish catching. This article highlights exactly how, where and when I like to fish the Yamamoto 2.5-inch Double Tail Hula Grub — and how it has performed for me so far.
Smaller Build, Familiar Profile
A smaller version of the original Double Tail Hula Grub, the 2.5-inch model has all the same features built into a finesse-sized package. Designed to be thrown on light spinning gear, this bait is perfect for a variety of finesse applications. The 2.5-inch Hula Grub features a double tail, Senko body, and skirted construction to generate bites when rigged in a variety of ways. It is jam packed with salt, allowing you to throw it without any added weight if needed.
Rigging the Yamamoto 2.5-inch Double Tail Hula Grub
I love the 2.5-inch Hula Grub for fishing small streams and rivers, which means I’m typically fishing around lots of rocks and other structure. Given this abundance of cover, I primarily rely on weedless presentations. One of my favorite ways to rig the 2.5-inch Hula Grub is on a weedless Ned rig. I prefer the 1/4-ounce Ned Head for the majority of my Hula Grub applications, and it’s perfect for fishing small current breaks and rocks. This is my go-to setup whenever I’m targeting river fish, however I’ll change my presentation slightly if vegetation is present.
Rigging this lure on a light Texas rig is another great way to generate some quality bites, especially in heavy cover scenarios. Many of the local rivers in my area are full of coontail, hydrilla and other types of vegetation. Baitfish often hideout around these clumps of grass, creating the perfect ambush point for bass to strike. I typically use a 2/0 Gamakatsu EWG worm hook paired with a 1/4-ounce tungsten worm weight and a peg. This is my favorite rig for fishing around a mix of wood, rock and vegetation as it comes through cover effortlessly.
Last but certainly not least, this bait makes a fantastic finesse jig trailer. This bait looks similar to Yamamoto’s Twin Tail Grub when rigged on a jig, however the added plastic skirt gives your jig a look and action bass aren’t used to seeing. One of my favorite jigs to pair the 2.5-inch Yamamoto Hula Grub with is the Buckeye Lures G-Man Ballin’ Out jig. This jig has the exact profile and hook size to compliment this trailer perfectly.
Choosing the Right Rod
Last but certainly not least, having the correct rod, reel and line setup can really help fish baits effectively. Except when using this plastic as a jig trailer, I almost always use a spinning rod to fish it. Like I stated earlier, I love using this bait in small creeks and streams. Therefore I prefer a short, accurate rod perfect for making small precise casts. For action, I prefer a medium-light rod with a nice bend. This is perfect for managing light wire hooks found in Ned rigs and other finesse style applications. One of my go to rods for throwing the Yamamoto 2.5-inch Hula Grub is the DX 702SF Dobyns Champion Extreme spinning rod. This rod has the perfect combination of length, sensitivity and balance to throw the Yamamoto Hula Grub all day long without fatigue.
For a reel, I prefer one with a smaller spool and a smooth drag. I recently purchased the new Shimano Vandford A which was released at this year’s ICAST, and let me tell you it’s one heck of a reel. I’ve been extremely impressed with this reel’s weight, durability and smooth drag. This has been my choice reel for throwing the Yamamoto Hula Grub, and I’m confident you’ll feel the same way about this rod and reel combo as I do.
When to Use the Yamamoto 2.5-inch Hula Grub
Overall, the Yamamoto 2.5-inch Hula Grub is the perfect option for anglers looking for a versatile bottom bait that comes in a bite-sized package. I love using this bait in small streams and rivers, however it’s just as effective in the big water as well. I’ve caught three species of bass on this lure, and even the odd rainbow trout believe it or not. So if you’re looking for a lure that catches nearly anything that swims, I highly recommend checking out the new 2.5-inch Hula Grub from Yamamoto.
