Gary Yamamoto Yamatanuki

The Yamatanuki from Gary Yamamoto Custom Baits is one of the most innovative soft plastics in modern bass fishing. Originally developed for the Japanese market, the Yamatanuki helped popularize the "heavy soft plastic" category by combining the simplicity of a weightless presentation with the casting distance and fall rate typically associated with weighted baits.

Constructed with a proprietary high-density soft plastic formula, the Yamatanuki delivers exceptional casting distance and a rapid, horizontal fall without requiring additional weight. Its unique bulbous profile and subtle tail create an erratic shimmy and side-to-side movement that triggers reaction strikes from bass around docks, wood, rock, grass edges, and isolated cover.

The bait excels when fished weightless on an EWG hook, making it ideal for flipping, pitching, casting, dragging, and forward-facing sonar presentations. Available in multiple sizes, including 2.5", 3.5", and 4.25", the Yamatanuki provides anglers with a versatile option for targeting largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass throughout the year.

Anglers frequently praise the bait's casting distance, fast fall, and unique underwater action, though many note that its heavily salted construction prioritizes action over durability.

Key Features

• High-density "heavy soft plastic" construction
• Designed for weightless fishing applications
• Exceptional casting distance without added weight
• Fast horizontal fall rate with natural action
• Unique profile creates erratic fish-triggering movement
• Ideal for flipping, pitching, casting, and dragging
• Highly effective around docks, wood, grass, and isolated cover
• Excellent option for forward-facing sonar presentations
• Available in 2.5", 3.5", and 4.25" sizes