If you're looking to target trophy-class striped bass, big soft plastics—affectionately known as "big rubbers"—are one of the most effective tools in your arsenal. In this episode of the Saltwater Edge YouTube channel, Tyler and Coby break down their favorite eel-style baits, how they rig them, and the specific techniques that help turn soft plastics into serious fish catchers.

Whether you're casting from a boat, kayak, or the surf, here’s everything you need to know about choosing, rigging, and fishing these oversized baits.

Best Big Rubber Baits: What's in the Box?

• GT Eels – Tough to get but wildly effective; currently one of the most popular big soft plastics on the market.

• Hogy Originals (14") – A limited-run bait with extra softness and wiggle—great for natural presentation.

• Hogy Slappy Swim Eels – More durable than the Originals, with solid action and lasting power.

• JoeBaggs Block Island Eels – A heavy profile ideal for bouncing bottom or mimicking large baitfish like squid or herring.

• Personal Best Baits – Custom, hand-poured baits with killer action and a loyal following.

Favorite Rigging Options (and When to Use Them)

1. Weightless With TitanRider

Ideal for nighttime or shallow water. Fish it painfully slow with subtle twitches. This method lets the bait glide naturally with minimal effort, and often gets the most finicky bass to commit.

2. Titan Diver Hook

This interchangeable weight system lets you fine-tune the presentation without tearing up your plastics. Perfect for mid-column or bottom fishing, especially in current or deeper structure.

3. Heavy Jig Heads

Tyler prefers JoeBaggs SPJ or Jecks jig heads for durability and hook strength. These are great for a fast drop, bottom-bouncing presentation, or heavy current situations where sensitivity is key.

4. Slug-Go Tandem Rigs

A proven tactic from shore—especially when fished slowly with a pause. Consider zip-tying the connection points to increase bait longevity.

Boat vs. Shore: How the Approach Changes

Ben shares that he fishes 99% from a kayak or boat, where casting distance isn’t as critical. He likes to keep the bait "painting the bottom" and often gets hits on the drop. For kayak or boat anglers, big rubbers shine because you're often closer to structure and can fish them deeper without needing long casts.

Shore anglers, on the other hand, may benefit from tandem rigs and longer, more aerodynamic soft plastics. While they don’t cast great in wind, they can still be deadly in the right scenario—especially when fish are close and feeding aggressively.

Pro Tips for Better Hookups & Bait Longevity

• Use Screw Locks to keep baits in place and minimize tearing.

• Zip Ties or soft bait glue can extend the life of your plastics.

• Match Hook Size to bait length for better hook-up ratios.

• Burn Them: Fast retrieves with your rod tip down can trigger reaction strikes in whitewater and boulder fields.

• Troll Them: Don’t underestimate the effectiveness of trolling weightless sluggos—especially at night from a boat.

Final Thoughts

Big soft plastics aren't just for backup when live eels run out—they’re an effective, versatile, and cleaner alternative that often outperform bait. Tyler and Ben both agree: when fished right, soft plastics can draw out the biggest bass in the area.

Even if you’re an “eel guy,” it’s worth mixing in a big rubber or two—especially on nights when fish seem picky. Often, the plastic pulls the larger fish out of the pack.

Have questions about rigging or want to share your go-to setup? Drop a comment below or swing by the shop—we’d love to talk gear and help you dial in your presentation.