When post spawn patterns settle down and summer fishing patterns emerge, catching bass can be both exciting and fun. It is during this transitional period that swimming a plastic bait is particularly effective. A wide variety of these baits will catch bass. A small reel such as the Curado 100 paired with a 6’ medium-to-medium light action rod will cast most of the baits recommended below.

Bass Pro Shop Tender Tube and Mizmo’s 4” Tube have proven to be the best performers for swimming thus far. Rig the bait weightless with a 2/0 or 3/0 light wire hook. I highly recommend a Gamakatsu E.W.G. Start with a white tube, but chartreuse is another option. Rattles are optional. Twitch and pause is the appropriate retrieve. Run this bait by any cover such as docks, lay downs, rocks, even through grass. This type of fishing draws reaction strikes, so keep the tube shallow enough to be visible at all times.

Yamamoto makes two offerings that work excellent for this style of fishing. First is the Senko. This “do nothing” looking piece of plastic imparts the most erratic action of all. When Texas rigged, it comes through heavy cover with ease. The four-inch bait in Blue Pearl Holagram is an excellent color choice. Using a twitch and pause presentation, the Senko will virtually “walk the dog.” The Yamamoto four-inch grub is another choice. This is also Texas rigged with Chartreuse Pepper being a highly productive color. A slow steady retrieve is required for this application. Remember to always keep this bait in site.

The Baby Hoo Daddy by Gene Larew is the only lure being discussed that requires casting with spinning tackle. Although this is a creature style bait, it mimics shad quite well with the proper presentation. Cast it out and dance it all the way back to the boat. This can be done either weightless with a #2 size hook or a 1/8 oz jig head. Again white is a logical choice when trying to imitate the shad.

As I said before this type of fishing can be both fun and exciting. The fun part is working these lures in and around all kinds of cover. Being able to see virtually every strike generates the excitement.

Until Next Time.
Tim Barlow