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
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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
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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