Capt. Mike demonstrates why the Hogy Surface Eraser is the perfect lure to start with when targeting bonito and albies. It can be fished a few different ways, it casts a mile, and is durable in case a bluefish enters the equation.

The Hogy Surface Eraser is perhaps the most a versatile topwater lure iexists. It casts like a jig, fishes like a softbait, and functions like a plug. Designed for maximum casting distance and topwater finesse, it’s the perfect choice for long-range presentations, finicky fish, and pressured waters.

Skippy Retrieve (Fast & Erratic)

Technique: High rod tip, fast retrieve to make it skip and dart.

Why it works: Imitates fleeing baitfish, perfect for fast-moving albies & bluefish.

Needlefish Glide (Slow & Subtle)

Technique: Slow, steady retrieve for a natural glide.

Why it works: Perfect when stripers are keyed in on long, slow-moving bait.

Twitch-Pause (Dart & Stall)

Technique: Short rod twitches followed by brief pauses.

Why it works: Mimics a stunned baitfish, making it deadly on picky albies and stripers.