Using Big Baits to Catch Big Post Spawn Bass

Big swimbaits and other specialized lures are a great way to target post-spawn bass. They are big, realistic, and can be fished in a variety of ways to cover water and trigger strikes.

Here are a few tips on how to use big baits to fish for post-spawn bass:

• Use the right gear. Big swimbaits require heavy gear in order to cast them effectively and set the hook on big fish. A 7 to 8-foot heavy-action rod and a high-speed reel with 50-pound braid with fluorocarbon leader are a good starting point.
• Fish in the right areas. Post-spawn bass are typically found in shallow flats and points, around cover such as docks, laydowns, and vegetation. Look for areas where bass are likely to be feeding, such as around baitfish schools or bait spawning areas.
• Use a variety of retrieves. Big swimbaits can be fished in a variety of ways, including swimming, twitching, and pausing. Experiment with different retrieves to see what works best on the day.
• Be patient. Fishing with big swimbaits can be slow-going, but it's worth it when you finally get a big bass to bite. Be patient and keep casting, and you'll eventually be rewarded.

Bass pro Chris Zaldain is considered by many to be an expert in selecting and fishing the right types of big baits for big bass from spring through fall. Take a moment and watch as Chris explains his system for using big baits to locate and catch big post spawn bass...