Consider Changing Stock Trebles on Crankbaits

It's important to note that not all crankbaits require immediate hook upgrades but many less expensive models do. Even though higher-end lures often come equipped with quality hooks; the decision to change those as well depends on individual needs and preferences of the angler.

However, understanding the potential benefits of upgrading hooks can help bass anglers optimize their crankbait performance and potentially increase their catch rates.

Take a few minutes and watch as bass pro Bradley Roy reveals the reasons why he often changes out the stock trebles on his crankbaits as well as other hardbaits...

I recently purchased several "low-end" crankbaits to use around heavy cover and was quickly reminded why treble hook upgrades are important.

Though the baits did a great job of getting bass to strike, I had a hard time keeping them pinned on the stock trebles. After changing out the stock hooks to higher quality options, my landing percentage rose above 75%. The change was definitely worth the cost for the upgrade!

Why Ditch the Drop Shot Hook for a Straight Shank Hook

The drop shot rig is a finesse technique known for its subtle presentation, and dedicated drop shot hooks, with their short shanks and wide gaps, are often the go-to choice. 

However, seasoned bass anglers know that there are situations where a straight shank hook can offer distinct advantages. 

Here's when to reach for that longer, straight shank hook:

1. Probing Cover: Fishing around heavy cover like rocks, brush piles, or thick vegetation requires a different approach. A straight shank hook, often referred to as a “finesse Neko hook” or “straight shank worm hook”, allows you to Texas rig your preferred soft plastic bait. This increases weedless protection, preventing the hook from snagging and hindering your presentation.

2. Hook Setting Power: While drop shot hooks excel at hooking finesse bites, they can sometimes come up short when fish strike aggressively. The increased leverage offered by a longer shank allows for a more forceful hookset, driving the point home in situations where a shorter shank drop shot hook might struggle. This is especially beneficial when targeting bigger bass or fishing in heavy current.

3. Bait Presentation Options: A straight shank hook doesn't just offer weedless rigging. You can also thread the soft plastic further up the shank, leaving the hook point exposed when fishing areas with little or sparse cover.

4. Versatility is Key: Choosing a straight shank hook doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing finesse. Many finesse-wire models are available, combining longer shanks with thinner wire for optimal action and hook penetration. This allows you to switch between Texas rigging and traditional drop shotting with the same hook, adapting to changing fishing conditions.

Bass pro Cody Huff relies on the effectiveness of the drop shot rig to maintain his competitive standing in the Bassmaster Elite tour. Take a couple minutes and watch as he explains his reasons when opting for a straight shank hook over the standard drop shot version when rigging for a day on the water...

When conditions call for finesse and you don't require weedless protection, stick with the dedicated drop shot hook. 

However, don't be afraid to experiment! A straight shank hook can add an extra layer of versatility and effectiveness to your drop shot arsenal, helping you land more bass in challenging situations.

Pros and Cons of Forward-Facing Sonar with Live Imaging

Imagine casting your line with laser-like precision, knowing exactly where fish are lurking and how they're reacting to your lure. That's the promise of forward-facing sonar with live imaging, a revolutionary technology that's transforming the fishing world. 

But is it an angler's dream or a fairness nightmare? 

Let's dive deep and explore the pros and cons of this powerful tool.

What is Forward-Facing Sonar with Live Imaging?

Unlike traditional sonar that paints a picture of what's beneath your boat, Live imaging uses scanning sonar to provide real-time, high-resolution images of what's in front of you, up to 200 feet away. It's like having an underwater video game, revealing fish, structures, and even bait in stunning detail.

Pros:

• Unmatched Fish Visualization: See fish in real-time, their size, direction, and even their reaction to your bait. This intel allows for targeted casting and jigging, maximizing your catch rate.
• Structure Insight: Identify underwater features like brush piles, ledges, and drop-offs, pinpointing fish holding areas with ease. No more blind casting, just strategic presentations.
• Enhanced Safety: See hazards like rocks and submerged objects ahead of time, preventing damage and ensuring a smooth ride.
• Tournament Advantage: For professional anglers, FFS with live imaging can be a game-changer, providing a significant edge in competition.

Cons:

• Cost: Live imaging systems are expensive, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, putting them out of reach for many casual anglers.
• Learning Curve: Mastering live imaging interpretation and using it effectively takes time and practice. It's not a plug-and-play technology.
• Ethical Concerns: Some argue that FFS with live imaging gives unfair advantage, reducing the skill required for successful fishing and potentially harming fish populations.
• Potential Regulation: Tournaments and fisheries are grappling with the ethical implications of FFS with live imaging, with potential regulations on the horizon.

The Verdict:

Forward-facing sonar with live imaging is a powerful tool, but it's not without its drawbacks. Whether it's the right choice for you depends on your budget, fishing style, and personal ethics. If you're a serious angler seeking a technological edge and are willing to invest the time and money, FFS with live imaging can be a game-changer. However, if you value fair competition, tradition, and the challenge of the unknown, traditional sonar might be a better fit.

Some folks believe only younger, less experienced tournament anglers will use FFS with live imaging more effectively than the old timers giving them an unearned/unfair advantage. 

However, one of the longest running tournament professionals and four time Classic winner, Mr. Rick Clunn has a different view regarding the use of FFS with live imaging. Take a few minutes and listen to what he has to say about FFS in the following video...

Remember, responsible fishing practices are crucial, regardless of the technology you use. Respecting fish populations and the environment is paramount, and using any sonar responsibly is key. So, before diving into the world of FFS with live imaging, consider all aspects and make an informed decision that aligns with your values and fishing goals.

Do you think FFS with live imaging is a valuable tool or an unfair advantage? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

KVD's Favorite Springtime Finesse Baits

When most people think of Kevin VanDam (KVD), they see the preeminent power fisherman plying his skills on the professional bass trails for several decades. Even though he may prefer working spinnerbaits, crankbaits and chatterbaits through the warming spring waters, KVD is one of the most well rounded anglers around. 

Anytime conditions call for finesse, KVD has three preffered baits he leans on when needing to trick finicky springtime bass into biting; Strike King's Ned Ocho, Baby Z-Too and the Bitsy Tube.

Take a few minutes and watch as KVD discusses each bait, when he opts for them as well as the rod combos he uses with each rig...

Catching Bass in Highly Pressure Waters

Heavily pressured waters can be intimidating for bass anglers. Every dock, obvious point, and weedbed seems picked over, somedays leaving you wondering if there are any fish left in the lake at all.

Always observe what's going on in the area you're fishing! Watch where other anglers are fishing and try to find structure and cover away from those areas. Look for subtle changes in things like water clarity, cover density (think isolated and less obvious), or current breaks that might hold hidden bass. 

Utilize technology when available! Download lake maps and depth charts to identify potential hotspotsthen consider using a sonar unit to locate less obvious structure, cover and baitfish.

Take some time and watch as Jonny from the "Fish the Moment" YouTube channel describes his approach to using electronics to find non-standard fishing locations on todays pressured waters...

Even though his approach is centered on the use of elctronics to find offshore areas, sometimes the same principles apply when fishing shallower areas and looking for visual clues as well!

Comparing Micro Wacky vs. Standard Wacky Rigs

The micro wacky rig and the standard wacky rig share a similar approach, but with key differences in size and presentation. 

Here's the breakdown:

Standard Wacky Rig:

• Bait size: Uses standard-sized soft plastic baits, typically 4-6 inches long.
• Weight: Often uses no weight, relying on the bait's buoyancy and natural action.
• Hook: Wacky hook specifically designed for the wacky rig, inserted weedless through the bait's center, perpendicular to the body.
• Action: Slow fall with a subtle wiggle or shimmy, mimicking a dying or injured baitfish.
• Best for: Targeting larger fish, open water, and covering more ground.

Micro Wacky Rig:

• Bait size: Utilizes much smaller soft plastic baits, usually 2-3 inches long.
• Weight: Can use micro jig heads, small tungsten weights, or even be weightless depending on the situation.
• Hook: Similar to the standard wacky rig, but uses a smaller hook appropriate for the bait size.
• Action: Even slower fall with minimal movement, offering a subtle, finesse presentation.
• Best for: Targeting finicky fish, pressured waters, and tight cover like brush piles and vegetation.

Key Differences:

• Size: Micro rigs are significantly smaller, offering a more delicate offering.
• Weight: Micro rigs can incorporate weights, allowing for faster sinking or adjustments to water depth.
• Action: Micro rigs offer a subtler, almost motionless presentation, ideal for finicky fish.
• Applications: Micro rigs excel in finesse situations and pressured waters, while standard rigs cover more ground and target larger fish.

Steve Rogers of the Bass Fishing Life created a short video discussing instances when the micro wacky rig is most effective. Take a few minutes and hear what he has to say...

In the video, Steve identifies the three most common rigging methods include a) weightless, b) weighted jighead & on a drop shot; all great options but I also see where it could be a great addition to a hot shot rig, free rig and even simple split shot rig.

Whenever you're looking for a subtle, finesse rigging option for clear water or pressured fish, the micro wacky rig might be worth a try!

Tweaking Your Jerkbait Retrieve to Catch More Bass

The jerkbait is a bass magnet that dances and darts, tempting even the laziest lunkers. But simply casting and cranking isn't enough to unlock its full potential. 

The secret lies in the cadence, the rhythm of your retrieve making all the difference between a skunk or livewell full of feisty bass.

Go Beyond the Twitch-Twitch-Pause!

Many anglers fall into the "twitch-twitch-pause" trap and while it works sometimes, it's not the only retrieve option. 

Here are some ways to "shake" things up when fishing a jerkbait:

1. Mix Up Your Cadence:

Staccato: Short, sharp jabs with minimal pauses mimic fleeing baitfish, ideal for aggressive bass.

Slow and Steady: Longer, drawn-out pulls with extended pauses imitate injured prey, perfect for lethargic fish.

Erratic: Throw in some random pauses and changes in intensity for a confused, irresistible action.

2. Play with the Pauses:

Short Pause: Creates a quick flash of movement, perfect for active fish in clear water.

Long Pause: Lets the bait hang, mimicking a dying minnow, tempting wary bass.

Variable Pauses: Mix short and long pauses to keep the fish guessing and trigger their predatory instincts.

3. Don't Forget to Work the Rod:

Rod Tip: Jerking the rod tip up or down during pauses creates a subtle darting action, adding life and a change of depth to the bait.

Rod Bends: Varying the rod bend during jerks influences the intensity of the bait's movement.

4. Consider the Conditions:

Water Clarity: In clear water, use subtler retrieves and longer pauses. In murky water, crank up the aggression.

Water Temperature: In colder water, slow down your retrieve; in warmer water, speed it up.

Structure/Cover: Pause longer around cover, giving bass time to react.

Bass pro Dustin Connell relies heavily on using a jerkbait to put bass into the boat adding a number of tournament wins to his fishing resume. 

Take a moment and watch as DC provides an on the water clinic on how to use cadence and catch more bass on a jerkbait...

Remember to Experiment! 

The best retrieve cadence is the one that gets the fish biting. Observe what works on a particular day and adapt your retrieve accordingly. 

Understanding Bite Windows

As any experienced bass angler knows, fish are most active and willing to bite during certain periods of time throughout the day. 

Being aware of when these prime "bite windows" occur can greatly increase your chances of catching more and often bigger bass.

What Are Bite Windows?

A bite window refers to a period of time when fish are especially active and feeding. During these windows, bass are more likely to feed therefore striking baits aggressively. The length of bite windows can vary from an hour to several hours depending on factors like weather, time of year, and fishing location. 

Bite windows are driven by the bass' natural feeding patterns and cycles. As cold-blooded animals, their metabolism and activity levels surge during certain times of day when conditions are optimal. Prime bite windows usually occur when the water temperature is rising, at low light periods, and during certain lunar phases.

When Do Bite Windows Occur? 

Although bite windows can happen any time fish get into a feeding frenzy, there are some general patterns to be aware of:

- Early Morning - At dawn, baitfish and other prey are active, while low light makes them vulnerable. A flurry of feeding happens at first light.

- Dusk - Like early morning, twilight periods around dusk see a peak in bass activity as they hunt in decreasing light conditions.

- Night - During hot summer months, bass may become more active at night when water temps are cooler and bait is more active. 

- Tidal Movement - Strong incoming or outgoing tides that move baitfish are another prime time for a bite window.

- Moon Phases - Around the full moon and new moon, bite windows may intensify.

- Weather Changes - The period immediately around cold fronts, storms, and pressure changes often trigger periodic bite windows.

Capitalizing on Bite Windows

The key is to identify when bite windows may happen on a given body of water, then be on the water and ready during those productive times. Here are some tips to make the most of bite windows:

- Track patterns - Keep detailed fishing logs to determine peak times on each lake, river, or reservoir you commonly fish.

- Be ready early - Arrive and get lines wet before the start of known bite windows.

- Use moving/reation baits - Focus your lure selection on crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwaters that mimic fleeing prey can trigger reaction strikes.

- Watch the weather - Check forecasts a few days ahead and plan to be on the water during weather changes. 

Stay alert to increases in fish activity during prospective bite windows anytime you're on the water. Pay close attention to locations where baitfish, structure, and shade meet since these are staging areas for feeding bass. 

With experience, we anglers can learn to predict when the windows will open then be ready to take advantage of them when the opportunity presents itself.

Why Spinning Rods Are "Reeling" In Bass Anglers

For decades, baitcasting combos reigned supreme in the bass fishing world. In recent years, however, a quiet revolution has been brewing. 

Spinning rod and reel combos are making a splash, gaining popularity among both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike. 

But what's behind this shift? Let's dive into the reel reasons why spinning tackle is reeling in the bass:

• Finesse Takes Center Stage: Modern bass fishing is all about finesse. From weightless plastics to small crankbaits, these delicate presentations require a sensitive touch. Spinning rods excel here, offering a lighter feel and more flexibility than their baitcasting counterparts. This translates to better lure control, allowing anglers to work baits with unmatched precision, enticing even the most finicky bass.
• Casting Like a Champ: Gone are the days when spinning reels were relegated to light lures. Today's advanced models boast powerful drags and smooth casts, making them capable of handling a wider range of lures, from finesse offerings to jigs and compact spinnerbaits. This versatility allows anglers to adapt to different fishing conditions and target bass in various depths and structures.
• The Comfort Factor: Let's face it, fishing is supposed to be enjoyable. Spinning reels are ergonomically designed, placing less strain on your hands and wrists compared to baitcasters. This is especially beneficial for long days on the water or for anglers with limited hand strength. Plus, the simple, open-faced design makes them easier to learn and use, perfect for beginners or those transitioning from other fishing styles.
• A "Reel" Bargain: Spinning combos often offer better value for money than their baitcasting counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious anglers or those starting out. Plus, the wide range of available combos means finding one that perfectly suits your fishing style and budget is easier than ever.

But don't be fooled by their subtle appearance. Modern spinning combos can pack a punch, with powerful rods and smooth drag systems capable of handling hefty bass. This versatility makes them ideal for various techniques, from topwaters to paddletail swimbaits and jerkbaits. In many situations, bass anglers can seamlessly switch between finesse and power presentations without needing multiple setups.

One issue many newcomers to the world of spinning tackle is how to minimize line twist, especially when not using braided line. It all starts with properly spooling line on your reel as highlighted in this video from the folks at Seaguar Line Co...

Though improper spooling is one of the biggest reasons for line twist on spinning reels, the use of wobbling (spoons) or spinning baits (inline spinners) and even drop shot rigs; old line left on reels causing coiling to set in or by simply reeling to close bait after casting are other factors leading to line twist.

Consider using a barrel swivel for spinning bait situations; changing the line more frequently and closing the bail by hand after casting to minimize twist from these three factors.

While baitcasting reels still hold a place in many bass anglers' hearts, the rise of spinning combos is undeniable. Their versatility, finesse, and user-friendliness are making them a go-to choice for both experienced anglers and newcomers alike.

Adjusting to Winter Cold Fronts

The wind howls, the chill sets in, and seasoned anglers know what's coming: a winter cold front.

While these frosty blasts can send shivers down your spine and fish sliding into deeper water, you can still conquer the cold and land some bass with the right approach. 

Here are a few tips to set your hooks into chilled, post-frontal bass:

Seek Deeper Shelter Locations: Bass become more lethargic in cold water, seeking out areas with quick access to deeper water. Think deep cover like submerged trees, docks, and rock piles. Don't forget deeper weed lines, points, bluffs and channel edges especially those associated with steeper sloped areas.

Follow the Sun: Look for areas with sun exposure, as even a slight temperature difference can attract bass. South-facing banks and shallow flats can often be hotspots in post-frontal conditions.

Slow Your Presentations: Forget fast retrieves and power fishing. Think smaller baits like jigs, Ned rigs, blade baits and slow down your presentations, letting the lure linger near bass-holding cover thereby tempting lethargic bass into striking.

Bass pro and former Classic champ Jason Christie loves fishing during the cold to cool water periods, even when faced with post-front conditions. Take a few minutes and listen as he describes his approach to locating and catching chilled, post front bass...