Baitcasting Tip: Prospecting for Smallmouth Bass

fishing_tips: "Prospecting for Smallmouth Bass Fishing

If you’re hoping to catch smallmouth in the summer, you need to know the type of structure and cover on which the fish are holding, and the way the smallmouth want the bait presented. Try these tactics to locate the fish and identify a pattern. Fish a fast-falling bait like a 1/2-ounce jig in the summer months when most lakes are relatively clear. To increase the speed of the jig on the fall, feed line to the jig when you cast it out to allow the bait to fall vertically. If the smallmouth doesn’t take the bait on the fall, hop the jig up off the bottom about 3 feet. Let the bait fall back on a slack line,"

Fishing Baitcasting Tip: Jerkbaits And The Sinking Retrieve

fishing_tips: "Smallmouth and jerkbaits are synonymous terms with anglers. The smallmouth is undeniably the most aggressive of the bass and its predator instinct is easily triggered by the jerking action of this “reaction bait.” Using a weighted jerkbait increases coverage of the strike zone, expanding the opportunities for using this lure throughout the year.

More than most lures, weighted jerkbaits demand the right 'cadence' (retrieve timing) to draw strikes. This is because they're being used to tempt sluggish bass in cold water. Here are some retrieves to try: Sinking Retrieve (extremely cold water): Make a long cast to the target zone.As soon as the lure hits the water, jerk the rod tip sharply so the bait dives. Stop. Hold the rod parallel to the water and to the side.Twitch the rod tip, reel up slack, and twitch again, much as when fishing a plastic worm. Repeat. When properly weighted, the lure will sink slowly between twitches like a dying shad.Most strikes occur as the lure sinks slowly. Watch your line. If it jumps, set the hook hard. Remember that bass will be extremely sluggish in cold water."