Does Bulging a Spinnerbait Work?

Waking or bulging a spinnerbait is a presentation used to retrieve a spinnerbait just below the surface of the water. This retrieve creates a wake or bulge often attracting bass since it mimics fleeing baitfish. This technique is most effective when bass are feeding actively and are close to the surface, particularly in shallow water. 

To wake or bulge a spinnerbait, you will need to use a rod with a medium-heavy power and fast action along with a reel with a high gear ratio (> 6:1). You will also need to use an appropriately balanced spinnerbait with a mag willow leaf, Indiana or Colorado blade, as these blades will create the most disturbance at the surface of the water.

Here are the steps on how to wake or bulge a spinnerbait:

• Cast your spinnerbait to your target area.
• Reel your spinnerbait back at a fairly fast speed.
• Pay attention to the action of the spinnerbait. You want the blade to be creating a wake or bulge on the surface of the water.
• If the spinnerbait is not creating a wake or bulge, adjust your retrieve speed.
• If you are not getting any bites, try changing the size or color of your spinnerbait or using different blades.

The bulging spinnerbait retrieve is one I have used for many years after reading an article by bass fishing celebrity Jimmy Houston on his favorite spinnerbait presentations. Take a few minutes and watch as he gives his thoughts on when, where and why to use the bulging and bubbling retrieves when targeting bass with a spinnerbait...