Building a Beefed-Up Chad Shad: KGB Swimbaits Takes on Panama Tuna Fishing

Gear
Written By Pete Robbins
KGB Chad Shad for saltwater

After experimenting with bass tackle at Sport Fish Panama Island Lodge, we started wondering: could a beefed-up glide bait designed for largemouth bass handle hard-charging tuna?

I've always been hesitant to bring freshwater jointed freshwater hard baits into the saltwater world because of concerns about hooks, hardware, and durability. So at ICAST 2026, I asked KGB Swimbaits founder Kevin Brightwell whether he'd ever consider building a bluewater version of his popular Chad Shad or Legend glides. As it turns out, he'd already been thinking about how to take the concept from bass boats to the open ocean.

 
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Pete Robbins
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