Tag: cold water bass

Winter Bass Fishing: Finesse Tips To Keep Catching Fish!

Winter is coming fast! If your fish disappear as the water gets cold, there is hope! Over the years we’ve found a handful of key baits that get bit day after day, year after year, even when conditions are tough. If the Winter blues are setting in, turn to these proven choices to keep catching fish.

Many anglers quit fishing in the Winter. They turn to the woods or the couch to pass the days until Spring returns. Don’t be that guy! The lakes are incredibly peaceful in Winter and there are BIG bass to be caught! Some days you can still catch them on reaction baits but when the going gets tough, turning to finesse is a sure way to keep getting bit. Tim has a handful of baits including worms, jigs, and flies, that work everywhere he goes.

Below you’ll find a breakdown of all the baits he discussed in the video. We’ve included the rigging, the exact colors he relies on to keep getting bit, and some of the rods and reels he uses to stay successful. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

Dropshot Baits…
-Big Bite Smallie Smasher 3.5” (Green Pumpkin Purple Flake): http://bit.ly/2ZpCOCY
-Strike King Half Shell (Morning Dawn): http://bit.ly/2iR9awm
-Damiki Armor Shad Fluke (American Shad): http://bit.ly/2VQ7g6o

Dropshot Rigging…
Hook- Owner Mosquito Light (size 2): http://bit.ly/2zQVKx3
Weight- Swagger Tungsten Pencil (1/4 oz): http://bit.ly/2UY7cgx

Jigs…
Jig-Keitech Tungsten Football (Brown/Purple): http://bit.ly/2FDQ3o1
Trailer- Z Man TRD BugZ (Green Pumpkin): http://bit.ly/2oiavEE

Jig- Dirty Jigs Finesse Football 5/8 oz (Green Pumpkin Craw): http://bit.ly/2d2apsm
Trailer- Yamamoto 5” Double Tail (Green Pump purp copper): http://bit.ly/2db9w1p

Fly…
-Spro Phat Fly 1/8 (Grey Ghost): http://bit.ly/2mboisG

Neko Rig…
Bait- Yamamoto 5” Senko (Electric Shad): http://bit.ly/2axAmNS
Weight- Tungsten Pagoda Nail (1/16): http://bit.ly/2iGNSFW
Hook- Owner Weedless Sniper Finesse Neko (1/0): https://bit.ly/2zXirRH
Ring- G7 Protect Tube (7MM): http://bit.ly/2PWEkUs

Ned RIg…
Bait- Roboworm 3” Ned Worm (Green Pumpkin): http://bit.ly/2j9F0Xy
Bait- Z Man Finesse TRD (Green Pumpkin Goby): http://bit.ly/2hs4RtR
Tungsten Head- Swagger Flanders (1/10th): http://bit.ly/2KcIB6M
Lead Head- Owner Block Head (1/16th): http://bit.ly/2qL0A8n

Swimbait…
Head- Tactical Finesse Swimbait Head (3/8 oz): http://bit.ly/2Pqrq3n
Bait- Keitech 3.3 or 3.8 Fat Swing Impact (Electric Shad): http://bit.ly/2ab7s8v
Head- Dirty Jigs Guppy Head (1/8 oz): http://bit.ly/2nyUJRS
Bait- Keitech 2.8” Fat Swing Impact (TW Ghost Shad): http://bit.ly/2ab7s8v
Head- Cool Baits Down Under 1/8 oz (Black Silver): http://bit.ly/2boS7QA

Dropshot/Ned Rig Spinning Combo…
Rod- Shimano Expride 6’10” Medium Light: http://bit.ly/2osaj3q
Reel- Shimano Stradic CI4+ 2500: http://bit.ly/2gu84t7
Line- Sunline SX-1 12 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2tn8EzQ
Leader- Sunline Sniper 6 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2p7fxju

Finesse Jig/Swimbait Casting Combo…
Rod- G Loomis GLX 843C MBR: http://bit.ly/2gqziwT
Reel- Shimano Curado 150 DC HG: http://bit.ly/2yHtsp4
Line- Power Pro Maxcuatro 30 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ
Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 12 lb Leader: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

Budget Finesse Spinning Combo…
Rod- St. Croix Bass X 7’1″ Medium: http://bit.ly/2r69Sj6
Reel- Shimano Nasci 2500: http://bit.ly/2g278cC
Line- Power Pro 15 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2aFg46b
Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 8 lb Leader: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

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NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel…
TacticalBassin Hat: https://bit.ly/31EYB8W
TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7
TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs
TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD
TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G
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Equipment We Recommend…

Minn Kota Ultrex Trolling Motor: http://bit.ly/2vFQypW
Humminbird Solix 15 Electronics: https://bit.ly/35HuPRY
Minn Kota Talons: http://bit.ly/2F0QBSP
Hot Foot Throttle Control: http://bit.ly/2ob4kgO
Loc-R-Bar Boat Security: http://bit.ly/2CMF1NP

Favorite Storage Box: http://bit.ly/2fvjcFB
Favorite Split Ring Pliers: http://bit.ly/2fT4Qw0
Favorite life jacket: http://bit.ly/2odXXIP
Favorite sunglasses: http://bit.ly/2glE3eN
Hero8 Camera: http://bit.ly/37hVTX4
ElectroSamson Scale: http://bit.ly/2f7QgQ9
Frabill Net: https://bit.ly/3kdZ3kA
Lure Retriever: http://bit.ly/2TLTJc6
________________________________________________________________

If you plan to do any shopping, using our links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won’t be able to even see a difference but they’ll know you’re one of us!

#bassfishing #Winter #Finesse

Blade Bait Tricks You Need To Try This Fall and Winter!

Most anglers have no idea how to fish a blade bait effectively. They might know that its traditionally considered a cold water lure but they have no idea it can be fished shallow around grass, worked aggressively, and even substituted for a lipless crankbait. Blades have so many uses in Fall and Winter, you really need to experience it for yourself.

Traditionally the blade bait is hopped slowly along the bottom in cold water. It gives a slight vibration on the hop then “dies” and flutters back to bottom. Its remarkably effective for trophy smallmouth in frigid water but for the average angler, its applications stop there. That original cold water use is still effective and should be a part of your Winter arsenal but today is about expanding how you fish the blade bait. We use 2 retrieves throughout the Fall to get consistent bites.

When the bottom is free of debris we fish the blade on the bottom. We use the exact same hopping motion as we use for the LV-500 to trigger a feed response. While that application is very traditional, you might be surprised to find out we often do it in 2-10 feet of water. The blade is not just a deep water bait, its incredibly effective in the shallows as well! The 2nd retrieve is a burning retrieve.

We cast and wind the blade much like a traditional lipless crankbait, ripping it free when it comes in contact with grass or other debris. When fish have been pressured by tournaments or negative weather conditions, the switch to the silent vibration of a blade bait is deadly. Blade bait season is just beginning, you need to get out and give it a try!

Below you’ll find links to our favorite blade baits along with the rods, reels, and gear we use to fish these baits effectively. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

Traditional Blades…
-Silver Buddy: http://bit.ly/2AcTelj
Preferred Colors: Silver Plated, Stainless Steel
-Blade Runner Blade Bait: http://bit.ly/2XMNoQj
Preferred Colors: Natural Shad, Chartreuse White

Custom-Style Blades…
-Megabass Vibration X: http://bit.ly/2R7FlvL
Preferred Colors: Ito Hiuo, Jukocho Shad, Craw, Gill OB
-Damiki Vault: http://bit.ly/2rnO7e2
Preferred Colors: Black Holo, Real Shad, Red Craw, Flash Gill
-Jackall Keeburn: http://bit.ly/2or8sy0
Preferred Colors: Clear Shad, Dera Shad, Red Tiger, Silver

Hook and Hardware Upgrades…
-Owner Hyperwire Split Rings (Size 2): http://bit.ly/2v8ArBX
-Owner STX-38 Treble (Size 8): http://bit.ly/2oNIeCD

Tim’s Favorite Blade Bait…
Rod- G Loomis IMX Pro 845 CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK
Reel- Shimano Curado 70 MGL K XG: https://bit.ly/3jdrMqa
Line- Power Pro Maxcuatro 30 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ
Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 12 lb Mono: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

Matt’s Favorite Blade Bait Combo…
Rod- Shimano Expride 6’10” Medium: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL
Reel- Aldebaran 50 MGL HG: http://bit.ly/2uQ4oH8
Line- Sunline Assassin 12 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Budget Blade Bait Combo…
Rod- St. Croix Bass X 7’1″ Medium: http://bit.ly/2r0xWAs
Reel- Shimano SLX 150 XG: http://bit.ly/2NfdOnk
Line- Power Pro 30 lb Braided: http://bit.ly/2aFg46b
Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 15 lb Mono: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel…
TacticalBassin Hat: https://bit.ly/31EYB8W
TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7
TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs
TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD
TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G
_________________________________________________________________

Equipment We Recommend…

Minn Kota Ultrex Trolling Motor: http://bit.ly/2vFQypW
Humminbird Solix 15 Electronics: http://bit.ly/2Hazsej
Minn Kota Talons: http://bit.ly/2F0QBSP
Hot Foot Throttle Control: http://bit.ly/2ob4kgO
Loc-R-Bar Boat Security: http://bit.ly/2CMF1NP

Favorite Storage Box: http://bit.ly/2fvjcFB
Favorite Pliers: http://bit.ly/2tfxFvw
Favorite Split Ring Pliers: http://bit.ly/2fT4Qw0
Favorite life jacket: http://bit.ly/2odXXIP
Favorite sunglasses: http://bit.ly/2glE3eN
Hero8 Camera: http://bit.ly/37hVTX4
ElectroSamson Scale: http://bit.ly/2f7QgQ9
Frabill Net: http://bit.ly/2FNdnQr
Lure Retriever: http://bit.ly/2TLTJc6
________________________________________________________________

If you plan to do any shopping, using our links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won’t be able to even see a difference but they’ll know you’re one of us!

#bassfishing #Winter #blade

Catch Fish Every Time! How To Speed Crank For Bass Right Now!

This is THE BEST technique to consistently catch fish in the Fall and Winter. Over the past few years we’ve dialed in our crankbait fishing and developed a style we call “speed cranking”. It requires specialized baits (We even designed our own specifically for the technique), high-speed reels, and a very unique cadence with the retrieve. Done correctly, it produces incredible results all around the country throughout the Fall and Winter.

Today we’re demonstrating the technique on Dale Hollow Lake on the Kentucky/Tennessee border. This world-renowned lake is home to the world record smallmouth but is also a great largemouth and spotted bass fishery. Before we even left the marina we were catching bass on the crankbait. Throughout the day we found success using a high speed retrieve with aggressive pauses. We caught fish on both the Tactical Crankbait and the Rock Crawler with our best results split between outside grass lines and deep rock points.

There are a handful of lures that are capable of triggering a feed response in bass when they’re not in a feeding mood. The jerkbait, Speed Cranking a deep diving crankbait, and an Alabama Rig are all great methods to trigger a bass but of these, the crankbait is the most predictable around the country. Whether you’re looking for a GIANT largemouth, a world-class Smallmouth, or a trophy Spotted Bass, it can be done by speeding up your retrieve, mixing up cadence, and choosing a bait with the right vibration.

Below is a breakdown of the baits and equipment we use for speed cranking. First is today’s baits and specific colors used, then we separated all of the baits by category and included very specific color recommendations that you can rely on to get bit. We’ve also included the exact gear we use so you’re prepared when the right bite comes and even added in budget-minded alternatives that will help you land these crankbait fish without breaking the bank. The links go direct to Tackle warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

The Bait We Designed…
-River2Sea Tactical DD 75 Crankbait: http://bit.ly/37dclbX

Today’s Baits…
-Spro RkCrawler 55 (Phantom Green, Red Crawfish): http://bit.ly/2NFPA5t
-R2S Tactical DD 75 (Green Pumpkin Craw): http://bit.ly/37dclbX

Cranks For Primarily Baitfish Eaters…
-Megabass Deep X 300: http://bit.ly/2sSQHpt
-Megabass Deep Six: http://bit.ly/2A3clKP
-R2S Tactical DD 75: http://bit.ly/37dclbX

Cranks For Primarily Crawfish Eaters…
-Spro RkCrawler 55 MD (Shallower): https://bit.ly/3juD6hS
-Spro RkCrawler 55 (Deeper): http://bit.ly/2NFPA5t
-Teckel Drunker: http://bit.ly/2xryClV
-R2S Tactical DD 75: http://bit.ly/37dclbX

Consistent Shad Colors…
Deep X 300: MB Gizzard, Sexy Ayu, Sexy Shad
Deep Six: Ito Wakasagi, MB Gizzard, Sexy Shad
Tactical DD: Ghost Minnow, Glass Minnow, Mirrored Minnow

Consistent Craw Colors…
RkCrawler: Phantom Brown, Phantom Green, Red River Craw
Drunker: Phantom Green Craw, Phantom Brown Craw, Phantom Red
Tactical DD: Green Pumpkin Craw, Blood Craw

Hook and Hardware Upgrades…
Split Rings- Owner Hyperwire (Size 3): http://bit.ly/2v8ArBX
Light Wire Hook- Gamakatsu EWG: http://bit.ly/2cZrsbY
Heavy Wire Hook- Owner ST-56: http://bit.ly/2cVg7xW

Hook Sizes…
Size 2: Deep Six
Size 4: Deep X 300, Tactical DD
Size 6: Drunker, RkCrawler

Braided Line Combo…
Rod- G Loomis IMX Pro 845 CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK
Reel- Shimano Bantam MGL HG: http://bit.ly/2H44yjG
Line- Power Pro Maxcuatro 20 lb: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ
Leader- 12 lb Maxima Ultragreen: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

Fluorocarbon Combo…
Rod- G Loomis IMX Pro 906 CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK
Reel- Shimano Shimano Bantam MGL HG: http://bit.ly/2H44yjG
Line- 12 lb Sunline Assassin: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Low Budget Combo…
Rod- St Croix Bass X 7’2″ MH Moderate: http://bit.ly/2r0xWAs
Reel- Shimano SLX HG: http://bit.ly/2NfdOnk
Line- Sunline Assassin 12 lb: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Other Budget Rods…
Dobyns- Fury 7′ Medium Heavy Crankbait: http://bit.ly/2bGvlVV
Shimano- SLX 7′ Medium Glass (Pre-Order Available): http://bit.ly/2bGvlVV
Daiwa- Tatula XT 7′ Medium Glass: http://bit.ly/2FXhNpO
Falcon- Lowrider 7’6″ Medium Heavy Moderate: https://bit.ly/3negdkY

NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel…
TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7
TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs
TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD
TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G
_________________________________________________________________

If you plan to do any shopping, using our links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won’t be able to even see a difference but they’ll know you’re one of us!

#bassfishing #crankbait #TacticalBassin