Retreaving a bait out of reach

[Lawguy513]

We have all used the "bow and arrow" method of trying to snap loose a bait snagged on a stump.  If that does not work, and you cannot get close enough to the bait to unhook it, or if you can't change the angle to free your favorite bait, there is one other option.  WARNING:  This method is not for the feint of heart!!  Here is what you do:  free up a little bit of line, and then pick it out of your reel, so that it comes through the front of your baitcaster, instead of the top.  This will let you slide your pole down the line towards your bait.  As long as you keep a hold of the string, you will not lose your pole.  The idea is to use the weight and momentum of the pole, while held at the just right angle, to knock your bait off the stump.  Once it is free, your pole will fall in the water, but if you are holding on, like I said, you will not loose your pole, and can pull it back in.  I learned this from an old guy, and tried it a few times.  It really does work, but always makes me a bit nervous! 

[pawpaw]

I saw somebody do that on tv , but I don't have the nerve to try it.  I think I would rather just loose the lure.

[rjn cajun]

I`ve also seen this done and it worked every time. But what if it doesn`t work? How do you get your pole back now that it`s down by the lure. The chance you take I guess.

[Lawguy513]

I`ve also seen this done and it worked every time. But what if it doesn`t work? How do you get your pole back now that it`s down by the lure. The chance you take I guess.

Simple, you reverse the pull on the string.  I have done it and failed, and pulled the rod back in without a problem.