When the summer sun cranks up the heat, so do we anglers! It’s time to break out the deep-diving crankbaits and dive into some seriously fun bass fishing. While the latest tech gadgets might steal the spotlight, there’s something undeniably satisfying about going old-school and getting down to the basics. And who better to guide us through this than Ozarks native Cody Huff, who’s got a few tricks up his sleeve for reeling in those elusive summer bass.
Why Deep-Diving Crankbaits Are Still Cool
Let’s be honest—forward-facing sonar is pretty nifty, but it doesn’t always pick up those sneaky bass hugging the bottom or hiding in the cover. That’s where deep-diving crankbaits come in, crashing through the water like they own the place. These bad boys are designed to root out the bottom-dwelling bass that other lures might miss, making them an essential part of any summer fishing arsenal.
Pick Your Poison: Choosing the Right Crankbait
According to Huff, the key to success with deep-diving crankbaits is choosing the right one for the job. His top picks? The Rapala DT 16 and DT 20. These crankbaits aren’t just pretty—they’re built to dive deep and stay there, giving you maximum time in the strike zone. Plus, their natural balsa wiggle is like catnip for bass, making them more appealing than those overly aggressive, noisy lures. The trick is in the speed—reel fast, make that crankbait bounce off the bottom, and watch those bass go wild!
Gear Up for Success
Now, let’s talk gear. Huff knows that deep cranking requires some serious equipment. His go-to setup includes a Bass Pro Shops CarbonLite rod, measuring 7’10” with medium-heavy power. This rod is like the Swiss Army knife of fishing—powerful enough to handle deep cranking but with a soft tip that lets the fish take the bait. Pair this with a sturdy 12-pound line, and you’re ready to tackle whatever those deep-water bass throw your way.
Find the Sweet Spot
Finding the perfect spot to drop your crankbait is half the battle. In the summer, bass love to hang out in deep water near points with ledges or channel swings. These spots offer a cozy combo of food and cover, making them prime real estate for bass. Huff recommends starting with crankbaits to get the bass fired up, and then switching to a big worm or shaky head once you’ve got their attention.
The Takeaway: Keep It Fun and Versatile
At the end of the day, fishing is all about having fun and staying versatile. While technology might be changing the way we fish, it also gives us a chance to revisit the classics. So dust off those deep-diving crankbaits, hit the water, and enjoy the thrill of loading up on bass the old-fashioned way. Trust us, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a bass smashing into your crankbait—it’s a summer experience you don’t want to miss!
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
