Gary Yamamoto Zako

Gary Yamamoto’s Zako is a swimbait that combines the bulky, fish-shaped profile of a bluegill or shad with a body design that is easy to use as a bladed jig trailer or for flipping. The body is thicker along the belly, making it easy to hold hooks and jigs securely. An accordion-style slit and a flanged tail are incorporated into the rear of the body. The tail’s restrained, tight action creates a swimming motion reminiscent of an actual baitfish. When a fish bites, the tail folds inward, helping minimize interference with the hookset. A centerline along the top of the body also makes it easy to rig the hook centrally, helping the lure swim straight when flipping.

The standard 4" Zako is primarily used as a bladed jig trailer, but can also be used as a spinnerbait trailer and for other applications. The 4" Paddle Tail Zako is a variation that retains the Zako’s durable body while featuring a rectangular paddle tail. The paddle tail produces a swimming action with a stronger kicking motion, making it suitable for a variety of trailer applications, including as a swim jig trailer. The 4" Zako offers a tight action, while the Paddle Tail Zako provides a more pronounced kicking action, allowing anglers to choose between the two based on the desired presentation.