Spinner Baits
One of the most versatile and consistent producing baits for all types of bass is the spinnerbait. It can be used in clear open water, near the surface in shallow water, and all around heavy cover. Many anglers get frustrated when trying to work a spinnerbait in heavy weeds. Here's a few tips........
- A lake with a lot of weeds has a lot of weed edge. Work the edges and focus on the irregular areas ie: where the weed edge turns or forms points or fingers.
- Try a braided line. It's thin diameter and low stretch help to cut the weeds and 'rip' the bait through when needed.
- A stiffer rod will also help and the increase in sensitivity from both will help you to feel the difference between weeds and fish. Many times it is difficult to detect a hit when you're working heavy weeds.
- Try burning the bait just over the top of the weeds. You'd be amazed at how fish can detect and catch a fast moving bait.
- When the bait is over an opening in the weeds let it flutter or "helicopter" down.
- Be sure to have a good selection of spinnerbaits. Having the right weight and style for a specific presentation can make all the difference. A heavy bait can fall through the weeds better if you want to get down, and a light one is good for burning the tops. Willow blade spinnerbaits can be retrieved quicker and they catch less weeds when ripping. Colorado blades give off more vibration and can be retrieved slower. They're also great for fluttering down in pockets.