Assist, or stinger, hooks aren't just for Butterfly jigs. Adding a stinger hook to a bait rig often gives you a second chance to make a final impression on a short-striking fish. To make one quickly after several visits from the razor gang, rig your bait as you normally would; then attach the loop of a pre-rigged jig-style assist hook to the bend of the main hook. Finish off by sticking the point of the assist hook through the bait's skin as far back as the attachment line allows. The second hook will grab any short strikers that miss the head. Also, when the fish tries to shake free of the assist hook, it oftentimes hooks itself again on your main one.
Jim Rizzuto / Kona, Hawaii
