Think of plunger-style lures as the American Express card of marlin fishing: Don’t leave the dock without them. With a tapered head design, this family of lures swims well in the spread from a variety of positions, making them among the most versatile lures on the water. Larger versions also make excellent teasers.
The Super Plunger from Black Bart was created in Kona, Hawaii, at the same time as Joe Yee’s version was made. Versatility is one of its biggest features, as it can be used in any position in the trolling spread although it’s most common from the short flat line. An aggressive swimming behavior and slightly heavier weight also lends itself to the long rigger position or even as a teaser. It’s suggested to use this classic with 80- to 130-pound tackle, rigged with 11/0 to 12/0 hooksets.
This angle-faced plunger was the first one Bonze Lures produced back in 1995. Made in New Zealand, it’s a favorite among offshore enthusiasts. With a Kahawai skirt pattern, this lure is a top producer in New Zealand’s striped marlin fishery. It’s also effective for blue marlin anywhere in the world. It’s just under 16 inches in length and is best rigged with 10/0 or 11/0 hooksets.
A great choice for the short corner, long corner and short rigger positions, the Maui Plunger from Steve Coggin is 16 inches in length with an angled face shape and hard resin construction. Rig this lure with a 12/0 hookset and 50- to 130-pound tackle, and then watch the fish come at it.
