Z-man Report
Z-man GOAT ToadZ
The GOAT ToadZ, a new ElaZtech surface bait built via fan interaction was introduced at the Bassmaster Classic this week.
“It’s really been a labor of love among Z-Man’s vast network of fishing nuts,” notes Z-Man president Daniel Nussbaum. “We’re thrilled to say, sixteen months after inception—angler concepts, rough sketches, prototypes, on-water testing, plus more input and hardcore fishing—the GOAT ToadZ is fully fleshed out and ready to make a splash.”
Among all the unique properties of ElaZtech, explains Nussbaum, the material’s buoyancy proved to be a perfect match for surface-fishing. “One of Z-Man’s most popular baits has been our Hard Leg FrogZ™. It’s been thirteen years since we released that bait—certainly among the most durable topwater toads ever built. Admittedly, anglers today have a lot of toads to choose from. But none of them offer all the advantages of ElaZtech. And we knew we could build a new design from scratch and give anglers something truly special—lively, versatile and incredibly durable on the hook.”
Buoyant enough to float a standard 5/0 EWG hook, the 4-inch GOAT ToadZ features a wide, bulky body and streamlined profile which combine to greatly enhance castability. The bait’s smart belly hook slot aids rigging and increases hookset success. Sculpted with a keel-shaped ‘hull,’ the bait’s “V” belly yields stability and a quick-planning action on the retrieve.
Topside, four dorsal ridges ride the ToadZ’ back, guiding rigging with a single or double frog hook. Ridges also help protect exposed hook points, preventing fouling in grass or other cover while still easily penetrating bass jaws.
The bait’s ElaZtech composition means the head and other parts of the body resist tearing. Even after multiple battles with bass through thick cover, that hook won’t rip through the throat.
Beyond buoyancy, resilience and other amphibious features like warts and eyeballs, the ToadZ’ central attribute is its customized kicker legs. With help and suggestions from Z-man fans, the company tweaked and improved the kicker legs at least a half dozen times. Fan engagement helped develop a specific configuration that gurgles in the water and produces a fish-attracting bubble trail.
The cupped kicker tail design from the original GOAT maximizes mobility and flow at slow, medium or fast retrieve speeds. It’s going to stay on the surface.
Based on countless fan-suggestions, Z-Man chose eight expressive patterns to flash its colors. It’s available now at MSRP $4.99 per 3-pack - www.zmanfishing.com.