For what this is worth. You can and I have caught bass without using a hook.Almost everytime they will get off before you will get to touch them but... I have thrown a lot of rattle traps with no hooks and "fought the fish" just to watch them jump and spit it out. Same goes with a jig if you cut the hook off. It might surprise you how long a bass will hold a lure when it is not getting stabbed my a razor sharp hook!! And no I didn't just make that up.

Dear Alcohol, We had a deal where you would make me funnier, smarter, and a better dancer... I saw the video... We need to talk.