Get Ready For The Spawn Now
When bed fishing, stealth is of the biggest essential tip.
Instead of racing forward with a trolling motor, anglers typically turn off electronics and drift into position…
When settling in on a fish, most people agree to anchor silently.
It’s not surprising the majority of experienced anglers believe that brightly colored clothes should be avoided because it might alert fish to your location…
In fact, some even advise wearing camouflage clothing to blend in with the nearby trees, branches, and other vegetation.
While fishing during the spawn may be the answer to your needs, sometimes you’ll need to switch to other lures or tactics. With this in mind, my team and I published a quick-read review of 5 Best Bass Lures Every Angler Must Own, or you can opt to read the complete report, Bass Fishing Lures: A Complete Guide. Over the past several years my team and I also tested and reviewed a variety of products, including best bass fishing rod, best bass fishing line, best tackle bag and even best fish finder for bank fishermen!
For more information, see the comparison table and buying advice below.
But be warned! Go through this blueprint slowly and carefully so you don’t miss any suggestions that could cost you.
Here are a few things that will help you catch more fish if catching giant bedding bass is on your springtime to-do list.
Boat Position
WINNER! Minn Kota Talon 10 foot BT
But, why is the Minn Kota Talon the best?
When working bedded bass, boat position is crucial, and stealth is essential.
Your boat’s drift will be affected by the wind, tide, and other factors, and jumpy spawning bass won’t take interference well. With Minn Kota’s Talons, locking down in shallow water has never been simpler.
The new 10-ft talons are stronger than ever and allow you to anchor silently and smoothly with your smartphone from anywhere on the boat since maintaining a low profile is especially crucial.
Additionally, it has a Rough Water Mode that keeps your boat secure in turbulent circumstances and a Soft Bottom Mode that assures you remain put in sloppy, muddy bottoms.
If you attempt to move the boat while the anchors are deployed, an alarm warning sign is built-in.
The Minn Kota Talon’s spike is covered by a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty, and all other components are covered by a 5-year limited warranty.
Check out these reviews from an actual customers:
“Exceeded Expectations – A lot of people tried to convince me to go with a competitor (not hard to figure out who) but I wanted to give Talons a shot. Easy to install, quiet, and three anchoring modes were three great features. One of my favorite features is the LED work lights that came in very handy at night when rigging tackle or working in my back compartment. Not to mention Talons look sleek and aggressive.” — patrick23 via BassPro.com
“Just too easy – I have a 12 foot Talon on my boat – hit the wireless remote twice to deploy and once to retract. No more pulling up a heavy anchor or wet hands in cold weather. Holds right away and doesn’t rip up the bottom by pulling the anchor in windy conditions. I had to buy one for my Dad as soon as he saw it.” — Ray54 via BassPro.com
“Very Pleased -I replaced a 6′ Power Pole with the 10′ Talon on my 19′ bay boat. I was impressed that the height of the Talon was actually lower than that of the replaced unit. Deployment is easy, quick, and virtually silent. That in addition to the fact that I will never coat my decks again with hydraulic oil from a ruptured plastic line leaves me very pleased with my purchase. I fish Tampa Bay, with the salinity and ever present sand and silt I am worried about corrosion on the aluminum telescoping members. I wish there was an easy way to wash down the mechanism with a wash-down port or something similar. I keep the boat in a lift and accessing with a hose is a little tedious.” — Pops via BassPro.com
“Talons work as expected – I purchased two of the black 10′ Talons for my Tracker boat and installed them myself. I used the Minn Kota adjustable aluminum sandwich brackets. The Talons work well and hold the boat in moderate currents. I would have given 5 stars but I feel that the sandwich brackets are overkill and way too expensive. I believe that Minn Kota could easily offer a fixed sandwich bracket for half the cost of those adjustable brackets.” — Gene1001 via BassPro.com
Tech Specs:
- Color - Black
- Size - 10 feet
- Control - Bluetooth controlled or manual
- Wireless remote included - YES
- Additional control features - Works with foot pedal, Humminbird fish finder, or i-Pilot or i-Pilot Link remote (not included)
- Fishing Condition Modes - Soft Bottom Mode, Rough Water Mode
- Deployment Alarm - YES, will trigger if boat is moved while Talons are deployed
- Corrosion-resistant - YES
- Saltwater-tough - YES
Fishing Line
WINNER! Sunline Super FC Sniper
But, why is the Sunline FC Sniper the best?
The last thing you want to do when fishing a bass that is guarding its bed is spook it with an obnoxious line.
Almost undetectable, Sun Lines FC Sniper fishing line is hands down the the tried-and-true fishing line more professional and serious fishermen trust… even if they have other fishing line sponsors!
The world class line composition provides great knot strength for bone crushing hooksets.
Additionally, the FC Sniper line has outstanding abrasion resistance when you working around brush, rocks, or hard structure.
Smaller in diameter, this line is easier to handle while casting and fishing with less stretch than many other brands.
It has low memory and great strength.
Sunline FC Sniper is a very good quality fluorocarbon line and worth the expense if you want to use fluorocarbon fishing line.
Check out these reviews from an actual customers:
“Pricey but best – pricey but worth it. best knot and abrasion made. I top shot 60ish yards on top of braid and change line a lot. three fills per spool.” — DB Nashville via BassPro.com
“Best fluorocarbon period! I tried this line early this year and it was the smoothest and did not tangle up on my spool.” — Clifford B25 via BassPro.com
“Love this Line …I Love this line … Good Stuff !! I recommend this line and would buy it again.” — PEPSKI via BassPro.com
Tech Specs:
- Length - 165, 200 yard spools
- LB Test - 2, 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 25
- Strength - Top-tier knot strength
- Resistance - Superior abrasion resistance
- Composition & Constuction - Invisible to fish
- Feel - Butter smooth to cast
———HUGE FISHING BLUEPRINT NATIONAL PROMOTION!———
Limited Time Promotion – Act Now!
Fishing Rods
For most anglers, I strongly feel that you can get a away using only 3 rods. Here’s why…
- The first rod is a casting rod, approximately 7’6″, medium heavy action, fast tip – Use this for your heavier baits such as larger jigs, flipping and pitching baits. If your bed fishing and there’s vegetation and cover you need a rod that will have the power to pull the bass out. In breezy or overcast conditions, the weather makes it really hard to see the beds, in that case you can fan cast a, bluegill swimbait, a topwater frog or a buzzbait with this rod.
- The second rod needs to be a casting rod, approximately 6’8″, medium light, extra fast tip – Use for lighter baits such as lighter Texas rigged Senkos, wacky rigs, smaller jigs, shaky head worms, and Neko rigs to name a few. In breezy or overcast conditions, you use this when fishing a popper, a walking bait, spinnerbait, a smaller swimbait, or a jerkbait.
- And finally, a spinning rod, approximately 7’8″, medium action, extra fast tip – Use this rod for finesse style presentations such as drop shot, mojo rig, neg rig, ect. To be honest I really don’t fan cast the finesse style baits when bed fishing, unless I’m relatively certain there is a bed in the general area.
WINNER! Medium Heavy Action Rod
St. Croix Victory Casting Rod (VTC75MHF)
But, why is the St. Croix Victory Casting Rod rod the best?
It’s not just any fishing rod. It’s engineered down to the molecular level to provide performance where you need it.
St. Croix Victory rods are not only designed to target a specific species of fish, they are specialized for individual fishing techniques.
The Victory series rod is now produced with proprietary graphite blank combinations that provide a 20% lighter rod with enhanced balance and ergonomics.
The rod blanks are created with an advanced SCIII+ blank as well as interwoven SCVI and SCIII carbon fibers. What this means to you is you get an insanely light, strong, and exceptionally sensitive rod without high price point.
On top of all that this rod also features St. Croix’s proprietary Taper Enhancement Technology that gives the rod a smooth action with increased sensitivity and easier hooksets.
I’m here to tell you this rod could easily be priced in the $350 range, but luckily for us – it’s not.
Many passionately argue this rod directly competes with St. Croix Legend series, or the G. Loomis NRX models… not joking… it’s that good!
My personal experience with this rod…
To be honest this rod is similar to the Mojo, but just upgraded to be made lighter, more comfortable, and more sensitive. On top of that it has a better warranty (from the 5-year to the 15-year)
My conclusion is… I feel that St. Croix knocked it out of park by bringing us this quality rod that would typically be unaffordable for most of us anglers.
St. Croix Victory Casting Rod Max Marshal flat out catches you fish!
With lengths ranging from 6’8”-7’11”, it’s no trouble at all to find a rod that will fit your height.
For your heavier bait fishing needs we strongly recommend the 7’5″ medium-heavy, fast tip rod St. Croix calls the “Max Marshal” (model number: VTC75MHF).
The Max Marshal differs slightly from the standard Marshal that also is offered. What our research revealed was it’s slightly longer backbone. The tips and the rest of the accessories are the same.
The tip actions for this series rod are also extra-fast to provide accurate casts and amazing sensitivity for feeling everything on the end of your line, but the rod powers are on the medium to heavy end of the spectrum providing plenty of horsepower for fish of any size.
Topped off with Fuji Concept “O” guides to reduce line friction and a proprietary reel seat give you a superior feel over most any other jig fishing rod on the market.
St. Croix builds this phenomenal rod their Park Falls manufacturing facility in Wisconsin, USA. And just to tell you, it’s the first time that St. Croix has ever released a rod in this like in the $200 price point that wasn’t made in their Mexico facility. So you’re getting a USA made rod with a 15-year Gold Star Warranty Service.
It’s time to act…
As you know in these uncertain economic times price of materials are always going up… and who knows when (if ever) it will stop increasing!
After talking to factory representatives one thing they told me is this introductory price is temporary. Just like their other rods series, this price will go up…
If you want a rod that should be priced in the $350 price range and want to invest a fraction of that – then you need to get one, two, or ten of these rods right now! Don’t wait. Claim yours today!
Check out these reviews from an actual customers:
“Great rod, great warranty! I was torn between this rod and the Daiwa Rebellion. I went with the Victory because of my great experience with my other St Croix rods and their 15 year warranty. I liked the 7’3″ H so much that I purchased a second Victory 7’3″ MH. I enjoy fishing these rods due to their lightness and great sensitivity. I currently own 8 St Croix rods and find they are very durable and comfortable to fish with.” — Muskee 50 via BassPro.com
“All around the best – I bought this rod as an upgrade from St. Croix. My Mojo bass rod had snapped and still was under warranty. I received it a few weeks ago and put my Tatula on and gave it a whirl. Compared to the Mojo, there’s a huge difference. The sensitivity of the rod is insane. The flex of the rod allows you to throw baits miles and the grip is very comfortable. What really sold me was the warranty, 15yr vs Mojo’s 5yr. This is the best casting rod in my locker. So if you’re between a Mojo and a Victory the extra money is well worth it all around.” — JawnZ via BassPro.com
“USA quality! This is my fourth St.Croix rod but it will certainly not be my last. These are exceptional quality for a very reasonable price. I really like the sensitivity of these rods. You can feel the most subtle bite. Amazing product from an American company!” — The Tree via BassPro.com
“Great Jerk Bait Rod – The Jerk is an excellent rod for this technique, light, responsive, and a short but section to work the bait, great purchase!” — Real Fishing Alabama via BassPro.com
“Great rod – Very lightweight and sensitive, paired this up with my curado dc and 30 lb suffix braid and it casts like a bullet.” — Dayn via BassPro.com
Tech Specs:
- Length - 7’5”
- Power - Medium-Heavy
- Tip Action - Extra Fast
- Line Weight - 14-65-pound test
- Lure Weight - 3/8- 1-1/2-ounce
- Peices - 1
- Model Number - VTC75MHF
- Warranty - 15-Year Gold Star Warranty Service
WINNER! Medium, Extra Fast Rod
St. Croix Victory Casting Rod (VTC68MXF)
But, why is the St. Croix Victory Casting Rod rod the best?
Yes, its the same series St. Croix Victory rod, but designed to used with lighter lures.
I really like the 6’8″ for precision casting, the rod is really like and feels very comfortable in my hands.
I used to use the Mojo, but have recently switched over the this rod.
Lures I normally fish with this rod are:
- Jerkbaits
- Lighter Texas rigged Senkos
- Wacky rigs
- Smaller jigs
- Shaky head worms
- Neko rigs
- Poppers
- Whopper Ploppers
- Walking baits
- Smaller swimbaits
- And much, much more!
Check out these reviews from an actual customers:
“Great rod, great warranty! I was torn between this rod and the Daiwa Rebellion. I went with the Victory because of my great experience with my other St Croix rods and their 15 year warranty. I liked the 7’3″ H so much that I purchased a second Victory 7’3″ MH. I enjoy fishing these rods due to their lightness and great sensitivity. I currently own 8 St Croix rods and find they are very durable and comfortable to fish with.” — Muskee 50 via BassPro.com
“All around the best – I bought this rod as an upgrade from St. Croix. My Mojo bass rod had snapped and still was under warranty. I received it a few weeks ago and put my Tatula on and gave it a whirl. Compared to the Mojo, there’s a huge difference. The sensitivity of the rod is insane. The flex of the rod allows you to throw baits miles and the grip is very comfortable. What really sold me was the warranty, 15yr vs Mojo’s 5yr. This is the best casting rod in my locker. So if you’re between a Mojo and a Victory the extra money is well worth it all around.” — JawnZ via BassPro.com
“USA quality! This is my fourth St.Croix rod but it will certainly not be my last. These are exceptional quality for a very reasonable price. I really like the sensitivity of these rods. You can feel the most subtle bite. Amazing product from an American company!” — The Tree via BassPro.com
“Great Jerk Bait Rod – The Jerk is an excellent rod for this technique, light, responsive, and a short but section to work the bait, great purchase!” — Real Fishing Alabama via BassPro.com
“Great rod – Very lightweight and sensitive, paired this up with my curado dc and 30 lb suffix braid and it casts like a bullet.” — Dayn via BassPro.com
Tech Specs:
- Length - 6’8”
- Power - Medium
- Tip Action - Extra Fast
- Line Weight - 8-20-pound test
- Lure Weight - 1/4 - 5/8 oz
- Peices - 1
- Model Number - VTC68MXF
- Warranty - 15-Year Gold Star Warranty Service
WINNER! Medium, Extra Fast Rod
G. Loomis IMX Spinning Rod (Jig and Worm 12588-01)
Why did the G.Loomis IMX spinning rod win the Runner Up award?
It’s not just any fishing rod. It’s engineered down to the molecular level to provide performance where you need it.
G.Loomis IMX rods are not only designed to target a specific species of fish, they are specialized for individual fishing techniques.
The IMX Bass Jig & Worm Series rod is now produced with proprietary graphite blank combinations that provide a 20% lighter rod with enhanced balance and ergonomics.
G.Loomis IMX graphite blanks are well known for their strength and sensitivity, two important factors that we’ve already discussed.
G. Loomis NRX Spinning Rod Review
“I’ve been a lifetime fan and came to realize I needed that same on-going quality, technology, innovation and performance in my fishing rods, with the G. Loomis brand being part of Shimano and being aware of how they have taken rod manufacturing to a next level, I had an easy decision once they asked me to fish with all the high-end G. Loomis rods.”
With lengths ranging from 6’8”-7’5”, it’s no trouble at all to find a rod that will fit your height.
The tip actions for this series rod are also extra-fast to provide accurate casts and amazing sensitivity for feeling everything on the end of your line, but the rod powers are on the medium to heavy end of the spectrum providing plenty of horsepower for fish of any size.
Topped off with Fuji K-Frame SiC guides to reduce line friction and a proprietary reel seat give you a superior feel over most any other jig fishing rod on the market.
Finally, G.Loomis’ lifetime warranty on rod blanks is one of the best guarantees in the industry and their customer service is widely known as going above and beyond.
Accolades: Best of Show in the Freshwater Rod Category at ICAST. Remember, ICAST is one of the worlds most distinguished trade shows for the most innovative fishing gear, products and apparel.
Feature 1: At least 20% lighter than competitors – Uses state of the art composite blank to make a rod that is not only lighter but has insane sensitivity.
Feature 2: Perfectly Balanced – Each hand crafted rod is made to be perfectly balanced in the anglers hands. This is said to reduce arm fatigue.
Feature 3: World class warranty – G.Loomis has the best warranty on the market.
Tech Specs:
- Length - 7'5"
- Backbone Strength - medium
- Tip Action - extra fast
- Line Weight - 6-12-pound test
- Lure Weight - 1/8 - 3/8 -ounce
- Peices - 1
- Model Number - Jig and Worm 12588-01
- Warranty - Limited Lifetime Warranty
Bed Fishing In Calm Conditions
Bed Fishing In Breezy Conditions
Fishing Spawnng bass In Calm Conditions
Fishing for spawning bass in calm conditions can be relatively easy. Must of the time you can see the dark bed the bass has created.
Just make sure you approach the bed as quietly as you can as to not disturb the bedding bass.
Lure color choice
Sometimes the bass will respond to natural colored lures, other times bass will go after odd colored lures such as pure white, pink, chartreuse, or all red.
My personal experience
Now I’m speaking personally… If I approach the bed and I know there is a bass on the bed I’m going to first pitch out a lure that is white. Why?
Because the bass is not used to seeing something like that on the bed, and second it’s really easy for me to see when it’s in the water.
However if the bass is not interested, I’ll switch to an opposite shaped lure…
Meaning, if I’m fishing with a white jig, I’ll switch to a white drop shot worm or a shaky head worm… or visa versa. Does that make sense?
If the bass is super skittish, it probably means it was already caught or it just came up shallow.
Regardless, if that’s the case that is when I’ll go with a small sized lure like a small drop shot or a Ned rig.
If the bass is still not taking it I’ll switch to a all red worm. I’ve had the best luck with red worms rigged on a drop shot or shaky head jig.
You guys still with me?
Without further ado here my techniques and lures I use for bed fishing in calm conditions…
Texas Rig
A Texas rig is a structure specific technique. Meaning, if you see the structure with your eyes or on your sonar you cast your rig to it.
You may have heard that bass love to position themselves around structure. And targeting that structure exponentially increases your changes of catching a monster bass.
And that is where the Texas rig shines.
To execute this technique, you’ll need the following:
- bullet-shaped weight
- bead
- hook
- worm or other soft plastic bait.
In an ideal situation, you should cast your lure into the water with very little noise as close to the structure as possible.
Allow it to fall with a little bit of slack in the line so it sinks straight to the bottom.
Then drag, pull, or slowly crawl that bait across, over, or through whatever structure you targeted.
Conversely, since the Texas rig is fished relatively slow, it’s not an effective as a fast moving search bait like crankbaits and spinnerbaits.
Here a list of the top Texas rig lures for you to consider
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Here a list of the top Texas rig accessories for you...
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Drop Shot Rig
Typically drop shot worms are very soft flexible worms are perfect this application of fishing.
They come in a variety of colors and sizes. Most straight tail drop shot worms are 6-8 inches in length and rarely have a diameter over 1/4 inch.
A really cool aspect of these types of worms is the amount of action you put into the worm you’ll get the same out. Meaning, the if you shake the worm like crazy, it makes the worm looking like it’s freaking out under the water…
But here’s the cool part more anglers don’t know… If you completely dead stick the worm (meaning don’t move your rod tip) the worm will still move! BUT HOW!!!? From any subtle current that is moving around your worm. So cool, right?
Since the worms are so soft any current naturally will create movements in the worm, making it look insanely real to the bass.
Our Recommendation
When someone talks about drop shot fishing baits, the Roboworm Fat Straight Tail Worm is always discussed as one of the premiere options.
The best thing I like about this bait is that it has a slightly larger head than most finesse style worms, yet it still remains incredibly soft.
The belly is embedded with salt. It is said, this is done because salt mimics the salty taste of blood. In turn the bass hang on longer, giving you a better catch ratio.
Even in cold winter time conditions this lure maintains its flexibility.
Best Rigging Option: Nose hooked or Texas rigged style.
Best colors: Aarons Magic, Oxblood Red Flk, Margarita Mutilator, Morning Dawn
Check out these reviews from an actual customers:
Tournaments won using a Roboworm
Aaron Marten, Lake Champlain, 2017
Brent Ehrler, FLW Tour, Lake Hartwell 2012
Brent Ehrler, Bassmaster Elite Series, Forest Wood Cup Champion, 2006
Clifford Pirch, Western FLW Series, Clear Lake, 2009
Clifford Pirch, WON Bass U. S. Open Champion, Lake Mead 2014
Here a list of the top drop shot worms for you to consider
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Here a list of the top drop shot rig accessories for you...
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Shaky Head
Shaky head fishing is a popular technique used by anglers to catch fish, primarily bass. It involves using a jighead with a small finesse worm or other soft plastic bait rigged onto it, which is then fished on the bottom of the water with subtle movements.
The technique is called “shaky head” because the angler shakes the rod tip slightly, causing the bait to quiver and shake on the jighead. This motion mimics the natural movement of a worm or other small creature on the bottom of the water, which can attract the attention of nearby fish.
Shaky head fishing is often used in situations where fish are less active or less aggressive, such as in colder water temperatures or during a period of high fishing pressure. The finesse presentation of the shaky head can entice fish to bite even when they are not actively feeding, making it a valuable technique for anglers looking to increase their catch rates.
Our Recommendation
When someone talks about shaky head worms, floating worms or trick worms are among the common options, the Zoom Trick worm is typically a go-to worm for most anglers.
The best thing I like about this bait is that it has a slightly larger head than most finesse style worms, yet it still remains incredibly soft.
It has scent, but it floats making this an excellent bait for shaky head fishing
Even in cold winter time conditions this lure maintains its flexibility.
Best Rigging Option:
Best colors: White, Black, Red Bug Shad, Pumpkin Chartreuse, Baby Bass
Here a list of the top shaky head colors worms for you to consider
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Here a list of the shaky head jigs for you...
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Ned Rig
This small worm requires a lighter jig head will also slow down it’s descent, giving it an incredibly effective and tantalizing shimmy that will keep the bait in the strike zone for a longer period of time.
On most days I’ve learned to rely on a 1/10th ounce jig head. However, if the bass are really shallow (especially great during spawn) I will go even lighter such as Ned Rig jig head in a 1/15oz. In the fall when they are a little deeper I will switch to a heavier jig head 1/8- 1/6 ounce.
Our Recommendation
Baits such as Elaztech TRD Worm by Z-Man are perfect for this because they are made out of floating material, and they are incredibly flexible.
Here a list of the top Ned rig lures for you to consider
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Here a list of the top Ned rig accessories for you...
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Neko Rig
A Neko rig is an amazing soft plastic fishing technique where an angler typically uses a long soft plastic wacky-style worm that is threaded through an o-ring that is positioned at the mid section of the bait. A small weight is then inserted into one side of the bait. A hook is then threaded through the o-ring parallel to the bait.
I know this may sound a little confusing. I know when I first heard about the Neko rig I was doubtful it would work. But after reading dozens of articles and watching countless videos I put the Neko rig to the test.
By golly it works amazing! I soon realized why numerous professional bass anglers are ditching other finesse techniques and going with the Neko rig.
Our Recommendation
We recommend the Zoom Centipede. The length of these little stickbaits are 4.5 inches, which make them a perfect size for wintertime Neko rig fishing.
On the way down, the buoyancy allows for a slower, more horizontal, and occasionally whirling descent.
Zoom Centipedes are made with ultra fine bait salt to make striking fish hold on longer giving you extra time to set the hook.
The Neko weight will encourage these little baits to stand up on their own even on a slack line.
These are great for clear and semi-stained water conditions.
Here a list of the top Neko rig lures for you to consider
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Here a list of the top Neko rig accessories for you...
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Mojo Rig
The mojo rig is an ultra finesse technique and is best used under extreme circumstances. The mojo rig is often viewed as the technique of last resort. A technique that anglers will use even if bass are not biting a drop shot bait!
If the lake you are fishing just had a storm system blew through the night before and you’re left with a clear, cloudless sky and calm conditions, or if the lake you’re fishing is highly pressured then this is the technique for you.
In its simplest concept the mojo rig lightweight Carolina rig. It’s utilized a weight above the hook with a length of line between them. However, after using this technique over the last five years, I made a modification that uses fewer items, it’s easier to step up, and it’s adjustable.
Here a list of the top Mojo rig lures for you to consider
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Here a list of the top Mojo rig accessories for you...
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Stick Worm - Gary Yamamoto Baits Senko Worm
The term “Senko” has become a general term for a soft plastic stick bait worm.
In 1997, Gary Yamamoto Custom Baits came out with the Senko and changed the fishing industry forever.
Yes, the Senko worm is hands-down the most common stick bait brand, but more and more makers of stick baits are coming out every day.
Read More: I outline some of the best stick bait brands you may not have heard of… yet!
If you’re unsure what is a Senko worm and why they’re useful, then read this report first. Then come back here.
If you know what this bait is, you’ll know these baits are very straightforward to use.
These Senko worms are commonly regarded as “do nothing” or “dead stick” baits since they have no activity.
But they all have one thing in common: they don’t have tails or appendages to help them move.
They gain their action on the fall. A Senko will have a subtle shimmy when it’s falling weightless, or when used in a Wacky rig, Texas rig, or Carolina rig.
Most of the time bass will eat your lure as it’s falling in the water. If not, cast it out, count to 30-seconds and wait for it to rest on the bottom. Give a couple more twitches and wait a few more seconds.
You’ll probably feel a couple of taps on your line, you may even see your line moving away. Then set the hook.
When other lures fail to catch bass, your first option should be a Senko or a stick bait.
Anglers fish these baits several ways. They can be weighted or weightless
And they can be fished using several different techniques.
Here are only a few ways a Senko can be fished:
By far the most common way to fish a Senko/stick bait is either by Texas rigged or by wacky rig.
Each technique serves it’s purpose. Click on the related articles below…
Read more: How To Fish A Senko Texas Rig (EASY Beginner’s Guide with Pictures)
Read more: Discover The TRUTH About Fishing A Wacky Rig Senko (… Avoid Getting Hung Up!)
Tournaments won using a Senko or Stickbait –
MLF Pro Jeff McLain, Lake Chickamauga – 2021
FLW Tour Pro Bryan Thrift – 2019
BPS Pro Chris Lane Wins St. Johns River Elite – 2014
Here a list of the top Senko-style baits for you to consider
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Floating Straight Worm - Zoom Trick Worm
If you didn’t know, the trick worm is unique because it’s a beefier sized worm and it floats.
Largemouth bass go crazy for these plain-vanilla, do-nothing plastic worms.
When weightless Texas-rigged, they float when using a light-wire gauge hook, and may be fished on or near the surface.
Alternatively, you can add a small bullet weight (1/16-to-1/8 ounce) and let the worm sink gently into the thick cover.
The 6-inch watermelon red flake variation is deadly in any season of the year.
Without a doubt, it’s one of the most popular and adaptable soft-plastic finesse baits on the market.
Here a list of the top floating worm for you to consider
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Lizards
Soft plastic lizards are easily known as the sleeper bait of the bass fishing community.
Their popularity has dwindled due to the introduction of creature baits. Lizard baits are not as sexy or weird looking as some of the newer creature baits.
But there is a great reason lizards have a history of being one of the most popular soft-plastic baits on the market… They catch big bass – hands down!
Soft plastic lizards like the Zoom Lizard are a little beefier than most soft plastic worms, so they’re ideal for fishing in the shallows without a weight.
Smallmouth and largemouth bass both enjoy eating lizards and salamanders.
When more anglers are throwing creature baits, thread on a lizard instead. Chances are the bass have not seen a lizard bait in a long time.
I prefer the Zoom Lizard because it has a real-to-life lizard body with free-moving legs and curly tail and it’s salt-impregnated
It’s a good fish catcher in all the seasons and can be fished ultra-shallow to super-deep.
Lizards are a great springtime bait, but they can also be used from spring to fall to catch bass.
I think it will get more hits and the fish will hold on longer.
Lizards are very popular when fished on a Texas rig, Carolina rig, Neko rig and drop shot.
Read more: Check out all the reviews from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top lizards for you to consider
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Crawfish Bait - Strike King Rage Craw
Crawfish are an important source of forage for all bass species, and the location and behavior of the crawfish influence the location and behavior of the bass.
Since crawfish are such a significant source of food and can live in a wide range of environments and habitats, a plethora of lures have been created to mimic the profile, action, and/or color patterns of crawfish.
Surprisingly, not all crawfish-imitating lures have the same action in the water.
The Strike King Rage Craw has amazing flapping and thumping to grab the attention of any bass in the area.
Furthermore, when the water is discolored, the larger profile moves more water, making it easier for fish to detect.
The movement of the pincers as the Rage Craw glides through the water will stimulate the interest of any surrounding fish, and the multi-colored baits will almost certainly persuade them to hit it.
Read more: Check out all the reviews for the Strike King Rage Craw from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top crawfish baits for you to consider
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Creature Bait - Zoom Brush Hog
The best way to describe a creature is it’s a bait that imitates a little bit of everything.
To create their own unique creature that performs a variety of tasks, bait manufacturers have experimented with different body styles, shapes, appendages, and overall action.
One of the best creature baits on the market is the Zoom Brush Hog.
Simply put, the Brush Hog can perform in nearly any fishing situation. It catches fish in clear or stained water, and you’ll get bites in both heavy cover and open water.
The Brush Hog may appear out-of-this-world, but once in the water these soft plastic appendages flutter subtly as its being retrieved.
There’s no such thing as a bad way to fish these little baits. Anglers have used them for years and successfully caught bass using a variety of rigging methods.
A basic Texas rig is one of the most popular for the normal size Brush Hog, and is considered a standard rigging style
The vast majority of anglers believe it’s best to use a 1/4-ounce tungsten worm sinker when casting on open water or light cover.
Without impairing it’s motion, the weight allows the bait to sink gently, yet efficiently to the bottom.
Bass devour this bait when pitched into cover like trees, submerged brush, chunk rock, grass, and docks.
Don’t be shy to use a heavy 1-ounce flipping weight when flipping and pitching around floating mats, grass, or vegetation.
Read more: Check out all the reviews for the Zoom Brush Hog from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top creature baits for you to consider
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Tube Baits
A standard tube mimics a crawfish, shad, or baitfish.
Tubes are an excellent bait to introduce new bass anglers or even children to since they are simple to fish.
A little 1/8-ounce weighted tube hook is perfect for shallow water fishing for if you’re bed fishing in spring.
The head can be rigged inside or outside the bait.
For starters, if you rig the weighted tube hook internally it will spiral down with a movement unequalled by any other bait.
However, it’s vital you fish it with light line with slightly bowed slack, especially in clear water conditions.
Conversely, the bait will fall faster if you position the weight outside the head.
If you’re new to fishing tubes, the Strike King Coffee Tube is a great option.
Most of the time tubes are most commonly used in water less than 12 feet. Interestingly enough tubes may be fished deep on the bottom to investigate structure.
Lastly, large tubes make a perfect flipping bait when flipped or pitching to heavy cover or grass mats.
Read more: Check out all the reviews from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top tube baits for you to consider
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Fishing spawning bass In Breezy Conditions
Bed fishing in breezy conditions can offer more challenges to catch bass. The wind causes the water to ripping and that breaks up or hides the bass bed all together!
Needless to say it can make fishing incredibly difficult.
Not to worry, I have the answer to your problem.
You can (1) go somewhere else to possibly find calmer water, or (2) you can fan cast in the same area so see if you can trigger an aggressive bass guarding his or her nest.
Lure color choice
Most of the time bass will respond to natural colored lures, particularly lures that are bluegill colored, or lures that are all white, or red lures.
My personal experience
Now I’m speaking personally again… If I come up to an area that I know some big bass are bedding but I can’t see the beds I’ll typically do this…
I’ll start with either a jerkbait, or a red crankbait.
If no takers I’ll either switch to a spinnerbait or a Chatterbait.
Lastly I’ll switch to a bigger bluegill colored swimbait.
Jerkbaits
Some of the best wins and biggest fish caught are from fishing jerkbaits for bass… yet no one ever talks about it. Everyone else likes talking about the latest and greeted lure fad. But truth be told, jerkbaits can catch giant bass in any season, in any condition even in the rain, cold, and snow. However, the optimal time to fish a jerkbait is anytime it’s cool, cold, breezy or windy.
Our Recommendation
The Megabass Vision 110 jerkbait is one of those lures that every so often comes along that completely changes how we approach a specific technique in bass fishing.
Despite the ever increasing competition from lure producers from all over the world, the Vision 110 is the lure that everyone else strives to be like or straight up copy.
This is the best lure the market has to offer and is still one of the greatest jerkbaits available to get the larger fish to bite.
I strongly recommend you invest in at last a couple of Vision 110’s. To go even further, I recommend Pro Blue in clear water, Elegy Bone in stained water conditions, and finally Kohoku Reaction when it’s stormy out.
Read more: Check out all the reviews from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of other jerkbaits for you to consider
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Crankbaits
The Rapala DT series has a unique motion mostly because of the way that Rapala designed the body of this little lure. The DT means the lure “Dives To” that number after the DT. So a DT10 will dive to 10 feet, a DT16 will dive to 16 feet.
The tight wobble action you get is because of the angle of the reinforced bait lip, which is perfect for attracting spawning bass to aggressively attack this lure.
The angle quickly drives the bait down with just a few quick turns of the reel handle. However the body is made from ultra-buoyant balsa wood and it naturally wants to float up…
What you get is a wobbling action that is in its own class.
Mid spring, summer, and all the way into the fall is where this lure performs the best. If you see the bass breaking on shad over a point or a rocky bank you should be throwing this lure.
Another time you want to consider throwing the DT10 or is during the entire spawning period. If you look at the general shape of the lure, you’ll notice it’s pretty tall. This mimics a small bluegill or a gizzard shad perfectly.
Other anglers swear this lure is great for suspended bass. They will see the bass are suspended in 12-15 feet of water and will throw a shad colored DT10. Again, since the bait is a little taller than most other crankbaits, it looks like a small gizzard shad swimming by.
Summary
I strongly recommend you invest in at last a couple of DT crankbaits. To go even further, I recommend Green Gizzard Shad in clear water, Chartreuse Rootbeer Crawdad in stained water conditions, and finally Delta around brush and rocks.
Check out these reviews from an actual customers:
Here a list of the top crankbaits for you to consider
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Spinnerbaits
When the reaction bite is on you want to throw a spinnerbait.
Spinnerbaits shine when they are thrown through shad boils, schooling baitfish or when bass are protecting their fry after spring spawn. Also, you want to throw a spinnerbait parallel to bluff walls and intentionally bumped into the structure.
Spinnerbaits work best if the conditions are breezy-to-windy.
Nichols Lures Pulsator Spinnerbait uses Extreme Flash Technology (EFT) to create a holographic light pattern that makes these the flashiest, brightest blades on the market. Fishing lures with the realistic hand-painted head with flared gill plates. Tournament grade components make our spinnerbaits made to last. Stainless steel spacer with 90 strands, 100% silicone hubbed skirt with built-in necktie trailer. Made in the USA
Read more: Take a look at what other fishermen just like you are saying about the Nichols Pulsator Spinnerbaits
Here a list of the top spinnerbaits for you to consider
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Buzzbaits
The buzzbait, which is often overlooked, is the ideal tool for catching giant bass. Bass will be driven insane by the loud surface noise, blades, squirming skirt, and soft plastic trailer.
When you’re looking for a huge bite, this is the bait you use.
A 3/8-ounce buzzbait is a good BOOYAH Buzz Buzzbait is a great option place to start.
“When the fish are using shallow water cover, the buzzbait will flush them out,” according to Bass Fishing Legend Kevin VanDam.
The buzzbait is one of his favorite lures for persuading bass to come out of cover, and you can count on it to do the same for you.
Read more: Check out all the BOOYAH Buzz Bait reviews from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top buzzbaits for you to consider
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Vibrating Jigs/ Chatterbait-Style Jigs
When first released, many thought chatterbaits were just another gimmick like the Banjo minnow; one of those “best bait everyone owns and nobody throws” situations.
However, when professional bass fishermen started to win tournament after tournament it solidified itself in bass fishing bait history that it’s a proven lure to catch fish year-round.
Being a mix between a spinnerbait, crankbait, and a jig, it gives off a great heavy vibration.
Choose a 1/2-ounce Z-man Jackhammer Chatterbait and you won’t be disappointed.
As Brett Hite put it, “Once I put a big swimbait on it, it became more of a square-billed swimbait to me,” with its deflection ability, it definitely has that ability to gain some attention
Read more: Check out all the reviews from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top vibrating jigs for you to consider
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Hard Plastic Swimbaits
Jointed hard plastic swimbaits offer a lifelike swimming action that causes the lure to swim side to side, provoking predatory fish to strike.
The majority are composed of ABS plastic, which can resist the wear and tear of fighting fish.
The multi-section swimbaits reduce the leverage a bass has when trying to shrug off a full-body bait, which helps to keep them hooked during the struggle.
Bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, roach, trout, snook, and salmon can all be caught with these bass fishing lures.
Finally, most swimbaits work well in all water conditions and are suitable for both saltwater and freshwater.
If you’re looking for a good starter swimbait, then I strongly recommend the 3.5 Baby Bull Shad Swimbait.
Mike Bucca and Catch Co created a rock solid partnership and developed and manufactured the Baby Bull Shad Swimbait.
This little 3.5-inch swimbait is slow-sinking, inexpensive, and long-lasting plastic swimbait bass lure that will withstand huge fish for years.
No expensive swimbait rod, reels or any particular equipment required.
This lure has a very realistic swimming action that may be easily imitated by the angler with very little effort.
When compared to most fishing lures, this small swimbait delivers a powerful punch and will help you attract big bass.
Read more: Check out all the reviews from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top hard swimbaits for you to consider
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Minnow or Fluke
Fluke fishing for bass is an excellent approach to catch those elusive or pressured bass.
With so many alternative soft plastic jerkbaits on the market these days, the fluke, generally called a “soft plastic jerkbait”, is sometimes forgotten.
The winning bait in this category is the Zoom Super Fluke because of its ideal size and it constantly attracts bites.
The Super Fluke has a fast lifelike dashing and darting movement and a very modest fall.
On the descent, its tail will quiver like an injured minnow or shad.
The possibilities for fishing a soft plastic jerkbait or fluke are endless.
Offered in a massive amount of colors the Zoom Super Fluke will match any baitfish on your lake.
Read more: Check out all the Zoom Fluke reviews from real Amazon customers!
Here a list of the top fluke baits for you to consider
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In Summary...
I hope this report gave you more insight into what you need to do to prepare you for fishing spawning bass.
To some it may seem like a lot, but truthfully, once you get everything organized you’ll quickly notice you’ll your bed fishing box won’t be as big as the other boxes of tackle you may already have.
Did You Get All This?
As fellow fisherman and content creator I thrive on helping others… I feel like I can do the most good by helping others… And frankly… I would feel like I did something wrong if you didn’t walk away feeling a little better about this lake.
I truly want to over deliver for you…
So Let Me Ask You Another Question…
After reading this helpful report I want you to think to yourself:
- Can you see how this could change the way you would fish spawning bass?… To make it easier, faster… and… with less headache, less frustration?
- If nothing else, do you now have a better sense of where you can get started, even if fishing spawning bass is new to you?
- Do you feel that you have a good grasp of what you need to anchor your boat as so to prevent spooking the fish?
- Do you have a good understanding what rods are needed to catch spawning bass?
- Earlier we came up with some helpful lure categories and colors to start with, can you see yourself considering any of these lures or colors? Which ones are you the most excited about starting when you get to the lake?
- Is it fair to say that using these products would give you a significant advantage over someone else who’s fishing this lake?
I Need To Ask A Favor From You And It’s Not Going To Cost You A Single Dime…
If you have gotten anything out of this free report; whether its knowing what to use to anchor your boat, what line to use, what rods are the best for fishing spawning bass, how to chose the best lure for the right condition when you’re at this lake…
Then I need you to do something that is going to help your fellow angler…
And that is share this report. Please share it to as many people as you can. It’s free to you and it really helps me out as a creator.
Lastly… thank you for spending your time reading through this report and I hope you have a phenomenal day on the water.
THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP ME THE MOST: There’s a lot of information about this subject you have found helpful, and I’m sure you’ll be able to put some of the knowledge bombs to use. But sharing this report helps drive traffic which in turn helps me at absolutely no cost to you. I love creating reports like this for you, and you like reading these types of reports please share this with your friends, family, and fellow anglers.
Click on your favorite social media buttons to share this page now!
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George Servinson
My name is George and I'm been fishing my entire life and love all things outdoors. My passion is helping anyone catch more fish. The newest things I've been doing lately is learning how to break down and clean all my reels, teaching my boy how to kayak fish, and bushcraft wilderness survival.
