The spinnerbait is a versatile lure that many bass anglers have used since their early fishing days. Its ease of casting, snag-resistance, and effectiveness in catching bass make it a valuable tool in any angler’s arsenal.
Some anglers may overlook the spinnerbait as they progress in their fishing journey. However, experienced anglers like Jason Christie understand its potential and have mastered its use.
Understanding the strengths of each spinnerbait design can help anglers catch more fish. Customizing the spinnerbait to suit the conditions on the water is crucial. Breaking down the design elements can help anglers understand what makes each spinnerbait effective in a given situation.
Blade Design
There are three common blade designs used on spinnerbaits:
- Colorado: produces a lot of vibration, suitable for cold or stained water and slow rolling.
- Willowleaf: produces a lot of flash, ideal for clear water and bass feeding on baitfish.
- Indiana: a combination of Colorado and Willowleaf, offering both vibration and flash.
A good starting point for fall is a tandem blade combination with a small Colorado blade and a willowleaf blade. This setup provides a balance of flash and vibration.
Adding a Trailer
Spinnerbaits can be used with or without a trailer. Adding a soft plastic bait can enhance the presentation. The choice of trailer depends on water clarity, temperature, and the bass’s feeding habits.
- Split-tail spinnerbait trailers provide additional action without adding bulk.
- Soft plastic swimbaits are effective in deep water or cold temperatures.
- Paddle tail swimbaits like the Keitech Fat Swing Impact 3.8 or X Zone Lures Swammer 3.5 can add significant action.
Equipment
When choosing equipment for spinnerbait fishing, consider the following:
- Reel: a lower gear ratio reel (around 6.2:1) for slow rolling, or a high-speed ratio reel (around 7.2:1) for burning the bait.
- Rod: a 7-foot long rod with a half-glass, half-fiberglass construction for sensitivity and strength.
- Line: 15-pound test fluorocarbon line, such as Seaguar TATSU, for its casting ease and abrasion resistance.
Fishing Locations
Spinnerbaits can be effective in various locations, including:
- Main lake flats with scattered weed clumps
- Parallel to boat docks
- Targeted casts to laydowns
To maximize the effectiveness of spinnerbaits, anglers should be prepared to make modifications on the water. Understanding spinnerbait anatomy and being able to adjust the blade configuration and trailer can lead to a successful catch.
Some top spinnerbait recommendations include:
- BOOYAH Covert Finesse Series Spinnerbait
- War Eagle Double Willow Spinnerbait
- Bassman Compact Series Tandem Spinnerbait
By mastering the use of spinnerbaits and understanding their versatility, anglers can increase their chances of catching bass in the fall.
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
